Renovation of Chakhar Lhakhang in Bumthang has started many years ago and it is still going on. This is because the Lhakhang is privately owned and does not get much financial support from the government.
Chakhar lhakhang, also known as the iron castle in Bumthang, stands on the way to Kurje lhakhang. It is historically and spiritually significant in terms of evolution of Mahayana Buddhism in the country.
It was in the 8th century that Guru Padmasambhava visited the Lhakhang on the invitation of Gyab Sindhu Raja, the ruler of Bumthang valley. Later in the 13th century, the Lhakhang became the residence of Terton Dorji Lingpa. Today, the Lhakhang is taken care by Lam Dorji, who belongs to the descendents of Terton Dorji Lingpa. According to Lam Dorji, the inner walls of the Lhakhang are cracked and the wooden floors damaged by insects.
He added that renovation works of the Lhakhang started many years ago but works are still not finished. Our reporter, Pema Lhaden, says walls and windows are yet to be painted and mural paintings inside the Lhakhang need to be re-painted. Walls around the Lhakhang also have to be constructed.
According to the Lam, the renovation works are carried out as and when he receives donations from the people. In 2010, the Bumthang Dzongkhag administration provided CGI sheets and Nu. 300,000 for restoration works.
“I would be extremely thankful if the government provides additional funds. These days, it is very costly to buy timbers, so if the government could provide funds, it will be of great help for renovating the Lhakhang,” says the Lam Dorji.
The Lhakhang is more than 700 years old.
