Sumtrhang Monastery

Sumthrang Lhakhang is located in the Ura Gewog, Bumthang district in central Bhutan. It is one of the earliest religious establishments in central Bhutan and probably the first center for the practice of Vajrakilaya teachings in Bhutan. It was founded around 1200 CE by practitioner of Vajrakilaya teachings from the Nyö Clan called Nyöton Thrulzhik Chöjé (approx. 1179-1265). Nyöton was a scion of the Nyö lineage in the 18th generation and is the son of Nyö Gyelwa Lhanangpa Sangay Raychen alis Zejid Pel (1164-1224). However, according to the oral history, it is established by Gyelwa Lhanangpa. Nevertheless, since its establishment, the temple has been a vibrant center of religious and cultural life and served as a source of religious culture and traditions for most of the central and some parts of eastern Bhutan. Sumthrang, thus, is a very important religious, cultural and historical center in Bhutan's history.In addition, descendants from its lineage include Pema Lingpa and hence the Wangchuck Royal family. As one of the earliest religious centers in the country, it houses some of Bhutan's oldest and most sacred relics. The Founder, Nyöton Thrulzhik Chöjé was born to Gyelwa Lhanangpa of Nyö lineage and mother Lhacik Dechokma. He was born on the 15th day of the fourth lunar month of the Earth Pig Year. It is described in his biography about his prophetic journey from Tibet to th

Monastery data from Wikidata (CC0). Summary from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA).