Yumbu Lhakhang
Yumbu Lhakhang is recognized as Tibet’s earliest ancient building and the sacred winter residence of the great Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo in history.
Overview
Yumbu Lhakhang is known as Tibet’s “First Building”—it’s the oldest structure in Tibet. It was first built in the 2nd century by Nyatri Tsenpo, Tibet’s first king and Tibetans believed this king came from heaven.
Today, it’s in Nyedong County, Lhokha Prefecture. It sits on Tashi Tsering Hill, which looks like a female deer. That’s why it’s called Yumbu Lhakhang— “Yumbu” means “female deer” in Tibetan.
History & Legends
Long ago, it was a palace for many Tibetan kings. In the 7th century, it became King Songtsen Gampo’s winter palace. There’s a famous story from the 5th century, during King Lha Thothori’s rule, that locals still talk about. The story says holy books fell from the sky onto the building’s roof. No one, not even smart scholars, could read them.
Then a loud voice from heaven said: “In five generations, someone will understand these books.” That person was King Songtsen Gampo. He sent scholars to India to learn Sanskrit. They created Tibetan writing and translated the books, bringing knowledge to Tibet.
Experience
Later, the Fifth Dalai Lama lived here and started a Yellow Hat Sect school. After that, Yumbu Lhakhang became a sacred place. Inside the main room, there are statues of Tibet’s past kings and the Three Tenses Buddhas.
Sadly, the building was badly damaged during the Cultural Revolution. But people fixed it in the 1960s, and now it’s beautiful again. The whole hill is covered with colorful prayer flags, which look lovely fluttering in the wind. From the building, you can see nearby villages and square farmland. Therefore, visiting Yumbu Lhakhang means seeing an old, sacred place, one that Tibetans care deeply about.
Plan Your Visit
For detailed information about Yumbu Lhakhang and Tibet tours, feel free to contact us at info@tibetroofofworld.com . Our expert team will help create a memorable Tibet travel experience based on your interests and preferences.
