2024 Grand Transmission at the Manang Sacred Site, Nepal

Preparations

Lapchi Dorzin Dhondup Palden Rinpoche recently led monks and nuns to Kunsang Lhundup Monastery in Manang to begin preparations for the upcoming grand puja with His Holiness Drikung Chetsang Rinpoche. Local villagers and devoted followers warmly welcomed them, creating a joyful and heartwarming atmosphere. After graciously receiving the refreshments, Dorzin Rinpoche and the sangha immediately started preparing for the ceremony.

Hardworking Volunteers and Auspicious Signs

For more than two weeks, volunteers from over forty nearby villages worked daily to prepare Kunsang Lhundup Monastery, the venue for the His Holiness Drikung Chetsang Rinpoche’s Grand Transmission at the Manang Sacred Site. They spent their time restoring the main hall, setting up the stage, cooking meals, and arranging tsog offerings.

On the eve of the event, the volunteers raised prayer flags together. Lapchi Dorzin Dhondup Palden Rinpoche led a consecration ceremony. During the blessing, a bright halo appeared around the sun, an auspicious sign that filled everyone with joy and a sense of divine support.

The day before the Drikung Kyabgon’s arrival, the area faced steady rain and a long power outage. Dorzin Rinpoche led the monks in a ritual dedicated to Drikung’s protector, Achi Chokyi Drolma, to dispel obstacles. Just as the practice was finishing, the power returned, lighting up the hall. The monks saw it as a auspicious sign.

Day 1

The sacred footsteps of His Holiness Drikung Kyabgön Chetsang Rinpoche graced the grounds of Kunsang Lhundup Monastery, a blessing carried by the winds of devotion.

For the first time, this land welcomed his presence, and with it, the air was filled with reverence, hearts awash with awe.

Like a river of blessings, his arrival flowed through the valley of Kyung Ngawal, touching every soul with peace, and leaving a mark of spiritual grace that time cannot fade.

A moment not just remembered, but eternally cherished, where devotion and blessings met in the purest way.

GarTul Chimi Dorjee Rinpoche

Day 2

With boundless compassion, His Holiness Drikung Kyabgon Chetsang Rinpoche bestowed the great Phowa transmission and longevity empowerment. In this sacred moment, all beings, people, animals and nature, were united in harmony.

Blessed by Buddha Amitabha, this empowerment encouraged us on our shared journey toward enlightenment.

We express our deep gratitude to His Holiness, whose Vajra feet stood firm in guiding us.

May he have continued good health and a long life.

May our collective merits from this day serve as a source of benefit for all beings.

May the blessings of Buddha Amitabha support and strengthen our practice, helping us achieve the ultimate realisation.

GarTul Chimi Dorjee Rinpoche

Day 3

The pilgrimage to Hunter Cave, accompanied by His Holiness Drikung Kyabgon Chetsang Rinpoche: Each step toward this sacred place was not just a journey through mountains, but a journey inward, awakening a profound feeling of gratitude and reverence. His Holiness's presence brought warmth and light to each of us, inspiring devotion that ran deep through the group. We moved together in harmony, carried by prayers and the blessings of the sacred land around us.

Legend has it that Chira Repa, the hunter who once sought to kill a deer, was transformed by Milarepa's compassion. Milarepa not only saved the deer but guided the hunter toward enlightenment. To this day, it is said that the hunter's bow rests above the cave, a symbol of the power of compassion and the possibility for all beings to change. This story lingered in the air as we walked, reminding us of the potential within us to awaken and live in line with the Dharma.

This pilgrimage isn't just about reaching a sacred place; it's a call to live with purpose every day. May the story of Milarepa and Chira Repa inspire us not to be led astray by the distractions of daily life, but to live with compassion, mindfulness, and wisdom. May this journey remind us that every step we take can be one of transformation, leading us closer to liberation. May the blessings of Milarepa guide us always on the path of Dharma, keeping our hearts open, kind, and strong.

GarTul Chimi Dorjee Rinpoche

A Heartfelt Gratitude from Rinpoche

On this auspicious full moon, I would like to offer my deepest and most heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made the recent historic Dharma events, led by His Holiness Gyalwang Drikungpa, at the sacred sites of Milarepa in Manang, a reality.

The visit of His Holiness Chetsang Rinpoche was a transformative spiritual blessing, with the powerful practice of The Great Phowa Chenmo and the long-life empowerment that touched countless hearts. This monumental event could not have been possible without the tireless work and dedication of so many individuals and communities.

First, I would like to sincerely thank the organisers from Taiwan, Vietnam, and the Gar Jamtse Foundation. Your months of hard work and devotion behind the scenes ensured the seamless flow of this gathering, from the logistical details to the creation of sacred spaces.

To the local leaders from over 37 villages and the hundreds of volunteers, I am deeply moved by your enthusiasm, joy, and unwavering support. You worked tirelessly to prepare the venues, attend to every detail, and create an environment that was both welcoming and spiritually uplifting. Without your selfless efforts, this event would not have been the success that it was.

I also wish to express my gratitude to the many devotees who offered their prayers, devotion, and financial support. Your generosity brought The Great Phowa Chenmo to life, and your contributions will leave a lasting impact on all who attended.

Through your collective love, service, and dedication, we were able to create an atmosphere of profound spiritual connection. The pilgrimage, culminating in the sacred visit to The Hunter and Milarepa’s Holy Cave, was not just a journey of spiritual discovery but also a testament to the strength of our shared devotion.

To each and every one of you, I offer my sincerest thanks. Your efforts have rekindled the sacred flame of compassion, unity, and devotion in the hearts of all present.

GarTul Chimi Dorjee Rinpoche