Karsha Monastery in Zanskar

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Karsha monastery is the largest monastery of Zanskar. The complete name of Karsha monastery is 'Karsha Chamspaling'. Karsha monastery in Zanskar is also known as Kursha monastery, Karsha Gompa and Kursha Gompa. This monastery was first founded by Phagspa Shesrab. The monastery prospered and flourished because of the hard work of Dorje Shesrab, the Teacher. Today the monastery stands fruitfully because of his efforts. In this monastery Gelukpa order was introduced by Shesrab Zangpo of Stod.

Location of Karsha Monastery

Karsha monastery is located in the Karsha village of Zanskar region.

History of Karsha Monastery

Karsha Monastery is credited to Padmasambhava. There are some wall paintings in the oldest remaining structure-an Avaloketeshvara temple, Chuk-shik-jal. These paintings seem to be linked to the era of Rinchen Zangpo (958-1055). The monastery is controlled by Dalai Lama's younger brother. a statue of Lhaso Cho Rinpoche is behind his seat in the chapel. The Mons have been following Buddhism since Kushana dynasty. Their contribution in building up of several monasteries, temples and chortens is incredible.

Composition of Karsha Monastery

The monastery consists of numerous shrines. There are some of the very delicate wall paintings made by the Lama Dzadpa Dorje. There are bone relics of Dorje Rinchen as well. Karsha monastery is the residence of about 100 monks. A famous festival is held in the monastery between the 26th and 29th day of sixth month of Tibetan calendar. This festival is known as Gustor Festival. The celebrations of the Festival involve the sacred masked Cham dance.

There is a cloth painting in the monastery. This cloth painting is a complex embroidery with gold and colorful threads on a cloth of orange color. This cloth painting is unfolded by lamas and depicts Buddha surrounded by his guardian deities.

Other Temples and Monasteries Near Karsha Monastery

There are several other temples that are constructed near the monastery are the Lhakhang Karpo and Thugsjechhenpoi Lhakhang. Monasteries close to the Karsha monastery are Purang Monastery, Khagsar Monastery and Phagspa Monastery. There is also a nunnery which is known as 'Dorjezong'. It is located at the top of the valley. There is a holy image of 11-headed Avaloketeshvara that is worshipped in the nunnery.

Chorten Around Karsha Monastery

There is a Chorten in the area of Karsha monastery. It has incarnate lama's mummified body. the lama was known as the Rinchen Zangpo. The mummified body is sealed in a silver lined box of wood. This silver sheet covering was robbed and spoilt During the Indo-Pakistan war. Thus the framework of wood for relic's container was exposed. It was later refurbished.

Karsha monastery is a masterpiece amongst the monasteries in Zanskar. This monastery houses a big number of gorgeous artifacts that will force you to appreciate them. Karsha monastery in Zanskar is highly revered monastery. The temples, monasteries and chortens in the vicinity of Karsha monastery are worth a visit. Even the Chorten in its area is no less whether in terms of beauty or importance. If you have not been to this monastery, spend these vacations there only.