MUSTANG: A historic monastery built inside a cave in Chhusang of Mustang District is believed to be more than 1,200 years old, according to historical analysis of the statues preserved inside.
The monastery, known as Minchi Lhwang Monastery, is carved into a red cliff along the road connecting Jomsom to Kagbeni and Korala.
The monastery is maintained by six families from the village, who take turns performing evening prayers and lighting butter lamps at the site.
Local resident Shyam Gurung said the cave was carved by ancestors and sits on a fragile cliff face. While the exact date of its construction remains uncertain, local belief holds that their ancestors migrated from Manang and brought their deities with them.
The monastery sits on a roughly 100-meter-high earthen cliff that is vulnerable to erosion and landslides. Gurung has urged authorities to support efforts to protect the archaeological site, though he noted that it has remained intact despite the risks.
The upper level of the cave houses the monastery and contains clay Buddha statues believed to be more than 800 years old. A stone statue of Green Tara, kept within a framed structure, is estimated to be around 1,200 years old. In total, the monastery holds around a dozen statues representing different forms of the Buddha.
The cave also features ancient wall and ceiling paintings created using natural earth-toned pigments that blend with the surrounding landscape.
According to Gurung, the second floor of the cave includes additional Buddha statues and a circumambulation path used for religious rituals. International researchers have previously studied the site and provided some technical and financial assistance for repairs.
Access to the upper levels of the cave is currently provided by two wooden ladders. Gurung believes that with proper promotion and preservation, the site could become an important destination for cultural tourism while continuing to serve as a place of worship for local residents.
Although located only a five-minute walk from the main road, the monastery remains relatively unknown. Locals say it holds strong potential as a historical and tourism landmark if it receives adequate protection and promotion. 🏔️🙏
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