The Treasury of Lives

Māratika, a pilgrimage site comprised of a cave and a Nyingma monastery, is located in eastern Nepal. It is unclear when it became the site of pilgrims, although it is first mentioned in Buddhist literature in the twelfth century. It is revered as the site where Padmasambhava and Mandāravā experienced visions of Amitāyus. They engaged in long-life rituals, staying at the caves for three months. Currently, there is an active Nyingma monastery, Māratika Chime Takten Choling, at the site. It is the seat of the Māratika Lama. The cave is also revered by Hindus.

Sources

Buffetrille, K. 2012. " Low Tricks and High Stakes Surrounding a Holy Place in Eastern Nepal: the Halesi-Māratika Caves". In Revisiting Rituals in a Changing Tibetan World. Leiden, The Netherlands: Brill.

Biographies

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