Para Goenpa

With the blessing of Buddha, Guru Rinpoche and Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel Rinpoche.

🙏🙏🙏

The Sacred Deities.

Mural paintings are large-scale artworks created directly on walls or ceilings, often found in homes, public spaces, and religious sites. These paintings can portray a range of themes, including historical events, cultural narratives, and spiritual figures, serving both aesthetic and educational purposes. Techniques used in mural creation vary, with methods such as fresco, oil, and acrylic paint, allowing artists to express their creativity and convey powerful messages through visual storytelling.

The mural paintings of Buddhist figures like Guru Rinpoche and Zhabdrung are vital representations of Bhutanese spirituality and culture, embodying wisdom, compassion, and leadership. These artworks serve as both religious icons and historical narratives, connecting viewers to their cultural heritage.

The murals at the Para Goenpa, known for their intricate detail and vibrant colors, date back several centuries, showcasing the artistry and devotion of the time. Unfortunately, the age of these murals has taken a toll on their condition, leading to deterioration over the years. Factors such as environmental wear, humidity, and neglect have contributed to their decline, resulting in significant damage. The Lhakhang itself has also faced challenges, with its structural integrity compromised. As a result, many of these invaluable artworks are at risk of being lost, highlighting the urgent need for preservation efforts to safeguard this important aspect of Bhutanese cultural heritage.

Today, the Lhakhang houses some of the most important relics, including a "religious drum" believed to have been brought from Tibet by Drubthob himself in the early 17th century, as well as various statues. It serves as a vital center for the local community—comprising over thirty households—where they uphold their Buddhist faith and cultural practices. These include seasonal offerings of fresh grains and fruits, as well as occasional and annual rituals.

The Lhakhang also features additional amenities, such as a small kitchen, a Tsamkhang (meditation room), a guest house, a storeroom, toilets, a small veranda, and outer chhari (enclosure walls).

A Brief History Behind Para Goenpa.

Para Lhakhang is a private Lhakhang located at Para Goenpa in Paro. It is believed to be one of the oldest Lhakhangs, built by Chojey Gawa in the 17th century, after the site was blessed by Drupthob Barawa Yeshey Gyembo, who visited from Tibet. Originally known as “Bara,” the name evolved over time to “Para.”

The history dates back to Drupthob Barawa Yeshey Gyembo's visit, during which he was offered tea by a local woman. He spent a short time resting near the “Khandom-Dho,” which can still be seen today near the Lhakhang. During this time, he had a vision of a raven flying around, which eventually perched on top of the Khandom Dho. Suddenly, he had a vision of the whole area transforming into Pel Yeshey Gyembo’s “Kyel-khor”, where the present Lhakhang now stands.