Bhutanese usually go on pilgrimage to Nepal and India. But since last year, the pandemic has barred people from visiting the renowned pilgrim sites. And as domestic pilgrimage gains popularity, many sacred sites in the country are seeing an increased number of visitors. One such place is Rinchhen Bumpa of Kurtoed in Lhuntse.
Unlike other sacred sites in the country, Shedrup Chokhorling commonly known as Rinchhen Bumpa is famous for its target-shaped mystical stone.
Early morning, devotees would mistake the sacred relic for any other ordinary stone. But the magic happens when the first rays of the sun fall on it. Mystical religious scripts appear as though the sun rays carved them – they are cut deep and their edges are visible. But surprisingly, it can’t be felt. It lasts for about an hour and disappears.
The stone is believed to be the archery target of Rahula, one of the supreme dharma protectors of the Nyingma tradition.
According to the Principal of the temple, Goenpo Dorji, the mantras of Guru Rinpoche, Zhabdrung, and Buddha appear on it.
“We have witnessed people express their faith and devotion like never before. And most devotees visit the place to witness this sacred stone target,” he said.
Although located about four hours’ walk from the nearest road, due to the sanctity of the place, on average, about 50 people, young and old visit the site daily. However, sometimes, hundreds of devotees visit the place, putting a strain on the limited facilities there.
“Due to limited guesthouse, we face accommodation shortage when they come in hundreds. So we have to provide them with tents to let them sleep outside the guesthouse,” the principal said.
Due to the increasing number of visitors, the Kuroted Gewog administration also maintained the mule track more than five years ago. From a little over 1000 in 2017, the number of visitors increased to about 4000 last year.
And going by the trend, the principal said this year the number is going to be even more.
Initially, an individual from Maenbi Gewog constructed the present temple in 1957. However, since 2015, a Truelku has been taking care of the temple. Today, there are seven monks headed by a principal.
Meanwhile, it is believed that Guru Rinpoche visited the place and meditated in the 8th century.
Sonam Tshering, Lhuentse
Edited by Chayku
