The Silver Buddha’s Chosen Home: A Thousand-Year Echo at Khorjak Monastery

The Legend of "Settling Down"

1.Located in Khorjak: Village (Kejia Cun), southeast of Pulan County (Burang) in the Ngari Prefecture, Khorjak Monastery (Kejia Si) is a hidden gem with a history spanning over a millennium. The name "Khorjak" (or Kejia) holds a profound meaning in Tibetan, translating to "settled down" or "settlement",. Legend tells of the great translator Rinchen Zangpo (Renqin Sangbo) in the year 996 AD, who was transporting a magnificent silver statue of Manjushri Bodhisattva (Wen Shu Pu Sa) through this region. Upon reaching this spot near the Peacock River (Kongque He), the statue suddenly became immovably heavy. The master interpreted this as a divine sign that the Bodhisattva wished to stay, proclaiming "Khorjak" (I shall settle here). Thus, the monastery was built around this sacred statue, becoming a spiritual anchor on the southern slopes of the Himalayas,.

A Repository of Buddhist Art

As one of the most important monasteries in the Ngari region, Khorjak Monastery belongs to the Sakya Sect (Sakya Pa) of Tibetan Buddhism,. Despite its relatively small scale compared to the grand monastic cities of Central Tibet, it holds immense cultural value. The monastery houses the revered Silver Manjushri statue, believed to be the one from the legend, which is considered a supreme treasure. Inside the ancient halls, visitors can find exquisite murals, Thangkas, and statues that reflect a unique blend of artistic styles, influenced by the proximity to Nepal and Kashmir. The architecture itself, though mottled with age, exudes a rustic and dignified charm, featuring dark red halls that stand in stark contrast to the surrounding landscape,.

A Pastoral Shangri-La on the Border

Situated at an altitude of approximately 3,700 meters, Khorjak Monastery enjoys a warm and humid climate distinct from the harsh cold of the high plateau, thanks to its location in the deep valley of the Peacock River on the southern slope of the Himalayas,. The monastery is surrounded by Khorjak Village, a settlement that feels like a "Shangri-La" with its idyllic pastoral scenery. The village entrance is marked by a river beach filled with vibrant red reeds, creating a stunning visual against the blue water and arid mountains,. The combination of the sacred temple, the flowing river, and the peaceful village life creates an atmosphere of timeless serenity, making it a perfect spot for travelers seeking both spiritual connection and natural beauty.

A Gateway of Culture and Trade

Khorjak is strategically located near the border between China and Nepal, serving as a historical folk passage and trade route between Tibet and South Asia. For centuries, pilgrims and traders have traversed this route, exchanging goods and culture. The monastery stands as a witness to this long history of exchange. Walking through the village, one can sense the blend of cultures and the deep devotion of the local people. The monastery is not just a relic of the past but a living center of faith for the local community, who have protected it through the ages. It offers a rare glimpse into the authentic religious life of the Ngari region, far removed from the hustle of modern tourism,.