Lenggu Monastery: The Sacred "Black Treasury" at the Foot of Mount Genyen

The Guardian of the Genyen Holy Mountain

1.Deep within the rugged valleys of Litang: County, Garzê Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, lies Lenggu Monastery (Lenggu Gompa), a spiritual sanctuary resting in the shadow of the majestic Genyen Holy Mountain (Mount Genyen). Situated approximately 10 kilometers southwest of the county seat in Lenggu Village, this monastery is not only a pivotal stop on the scenic Genyen Loop but also one of the most significant monasteries of the Sakya school (Flower Sect) in the Kham region, sharing its renown with the famous Litang Chode Monastery. The name "Lenggu" is interpreted in Tibetan as "Old Holy Land" or "Cold and Steep Ancient Temple," reflecting its profound history and its solemn, secluded atmosphere amidst the snow-capped peaks. Founded during the Southern Song Dynasty (around 1240-1250) by a disciple or relative of the great Sakya Pandita, Lenggu Monastery has stood for nearly a millennium as the spiritual anchor for the local herders and the guardian of the southern gateway to the holy mountain.

A Treasury of "Black and Gold" Art

Lenggu Monastery is celebrated as a "Treasury of Black Sect Art," distinguishing it from the more common red and yellow Gelugpa temples. The architecture features the distinctive tri-colored stripes (red, white, and black) of the Sakya tradition, but it is the interior that truly captivates. The monastery is renowned for its "Black Background Gold Painted Murals" (Hei Di Jin Hui). These mysterious and solemn paintings cover the walls of the main assembly hall, depicting the "Path and Fruit" (Lamdre) teachings, protector deities like Mahakala, and the central deity Hevajra. The contrast of shimmering gold lines against the deep black background creates a visual impact that is both mystical and awe-inspiring, representing the esoteric depth of the Sakya tradition.

The Sanctuary of Hevajra

2.The spiritual core of Lenggu: Monastery is the Hevajra Hall (Xi Jin Gang Dian). This hall enshrines a magnificent bronze statue of Hevajra, the principal yidam (meditational deity) of the Sakya school, symbolizing the union of wisdom and compassion. The hall is also home to rare cultural relics, including a bronze statue of Sakya Pandita, ancient Thangkas featuring black and gold mandalas, and precious tantric ritual implements passed down through centuries. Unlike the bustling atmosphere of larger monasteries, Lenggu maintains a serene environment dedicated to rigorous practice. It houses a college for esoteric studies where monks engage in the systematic cultivation of the "Generation and Completion Stages" of tantra, keeping the ancient lineages alive.

A Pilgrimage to the "Eye of Genyen"

3.Visiting Lenggu: Monastery is often combined with a pilgrimage to the natural wonders of the Genyen massif. Just a few kilometers hike from the monastery lies the famous "Eye of Genyen" (Genie Zhi Yan), a small, crescent-shaped alpine lake that reflects the snowy peak like a divine eye gazing at the sky. The monastery serves as the perfect base camp for exploring this breathtaking landscape. Whether you are a pilgrim circumambulating the holy mountain or a traveler seeking the raw beauty of the "Highland Aesthetics," Lenggu Monastery offers a profound connection between the divine nature of the snow peaks and the devoted heart of the Tibetan people.