The historic and culturally significant Nirphu Monastery in Chhoser, Lo Manthang Municipality-1, Mustang, has been successfully renovated. Originally established in a cave on the mountain wall during the 15th century, the monastery suffered significant damage during the 2015 Gorkha earthquake and subsequent monsoon rains. The restoration work, which was essential due to the extensive damage to the monastery’s structures, was supported by the German Embassy in Kathmandu.
According to Lama Chombe Gurung, the restoration was funded with a contribution of NPR 6.6 million from the German Embassy. “The renovation was carried out while preserving the traditional architectural integrity of the monastery,” Gurung explained. “The reconstruction has resolved issues such as water leakage and falling stones within the monastery.”
The renovation included the construction of a pathway from the road at the base of the mountain to the monastery and the cave, as well as the installation of a suspension bridge. Inside the cave, a religious library has been established, which includes a collection of Buddhist texts. Additionally, windows have been added to the exterior of the cave.
The monastery and cave, now repainted and visually appealing, hold significant religious, historical, and cultural value. Historical records indicate that Sonam Lovo Khenchen (Sonam Intuk), the third son of the second cultural king of Mustang, Agun Sangwo, established the monastery in the 15th century for meditation in the Nirphu cave.
Nirphu Monastery attracts both local and international visitors. The monastery also supports an educational institution that has been operating since 2004, providing Lama education up to grade 8. The school, which offers instruction in Nepali, English, and Tibetan, currently has 60 students. With a contribution of NPR 3 million from Gorkha Welfare, a three-room classroom building has been constructed.
Additionally, a hostel building is under construction with a budget of approximately NPR 5 crore, funded jointly by the Indian Embassy and Lo Manthang Municipality. The new building is being constructed under the leadership of Chhoser residents in Singapore.
The area’s attractions include the Nirphu and Garfu Monasteries and the Zhung Cave. The entry fee is NPR 100 for Nepalese visitors and NPR 1,000 for foreigners. To reach Chhoser, travelers can take a five-minute vehicle ride from Nechung on the Beni-Jomsom-Korla road, which connects China and India.
