The Gandhola Monastery was founded by Padmasambhava during the 8th century and is now connected with the Drukpa Lineage of the Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism. Now, according to the local traditions, the Padma bka’i thang, discovered in 1326 in the Yarlung Valley by Urgyan Lingpa, the site was connected with Padmasambhava. But, this site was a Buddhist establishment even earlier than that. It is said to be the oldest monastery in the Lahaul region. And, in the year 1857, historians discovered a copper goblet which was the oldest example of metalwork from the 1st century. Then, the other instance depicted that the Buddhist civilization was very advanced at that time as well. The rocky cliffs of Tupchiling village where the Gandhola Monastery is situated are very close to the point where there is a confluence of the Chandra and Bhaga rivers.
Now, the Gandhola Monastery is maintained by the order of Drukpa monks and nuns, like other monasteries. It also comprises some of the religious treasures with amazing architectural specimens which is really valued. Also, in 1959 it went through a major renovation but the charm always remained still for the Gandhola Monastery.
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