Lhading Lhakhang- Mural Restoration

2021

Lhading Goempa, meaning the “Temple of the Flying Gods and Goddesses,” is a sacred site associated with a longstanding tradition of sacred objects believed to have travelled from Tibet.

According to tradition, the temple was established after Drubthob Pawo Tagsham and Khandro Metho Seldon arrived from Tibet and identified the site following a vision of gods and goddesses flying above the area. The temple is also associated with the tradition of ten flying statues that came to Lhading from Tibet.

The temple’s central relic is the Jowo Mikyo Dorji, accompanied by statues of Avalokiteshvara, Vajradhara, Gye Tharched, Buddha Shakyamuni, and the Five Wisdom Buddhas. According to local tradition, one of the Five Wisdom Buddhas later flew back to Tibet, while the remaining four were sealed in place by Drukpa Kunley.

Lhading also preserves historic sacred murals and intricate wooden carvings. ZDPACC undertook the restoration of the temple’s murals in 2021, contributing to the preservation of its sacred artistic heritage.

The temple also retains damaged fragments of wooden jabyoe, the carved backboards positioned behind the statues. Unable to be restored due to insect damage and deteriorating wood, these fragments have instead been carefully preserved and displayed within the temple.

The preservation of both the restored murals and fragile surviving fragments reflects the importance of safeguarding not only intact sacred artworks, but also the material traces that remain of Bhutan’s religious and artistic heritage.