Pema Shelpuk

Pema Shelpuk photo courtesy of Matthew Pistono

Pema Shelpuk (Wyl. padma shel phug) 'Lotus Crystal Cave' — a famous pilgrimage site located at about four hours' trekking distance above Dzongsar Monastery, and one of the twenty-five most important sacred places in all of East Tibet, representing the enlightened speech aspect of enlightened qualities. It is said to have been blessed by the four masters Garab Dorje, Shri Singha, Guru Rinpoche and Vairotsana. It was here that Chokgyur Dechen Lingpa discovered the Three Classes of the Great Perfection (Dzogchen Dé Sum) terma cycle, and Jamyang Khyentse Wangpo placed a statue of Guru Dewachenpo in the cave. Jamyang Khyentse Chökyi Lodrö would often stay here in the summer.