Page 33 - Seniorstoday March 2023

Chung Ani Gompa (which is even older).
However, it is the pristine beauty of these
side valleys which draws a visitor in.
A number of lakes and waterfalls adorn
the vicinity of Tawang and a visitor is
automatically drawn to them. The Sela Lake
(near the Sela Pass) is generally frequent
but it is the Sangetsar Tso which is as
captivating, as it is unique. Surrounded by
high mountains, the lake is formed due to a
natural depression in the valley. Dead tree
stumps jutting out of the water giving it a
very eerie feel.

Dukhang
entire northern wall of the hall. On the left
of the altar is the silver casket wrapped in
silk containing the Thangkas of Goddess
Sri Devi (Palden Lhamo) the principal
deity of the monastery. A colossal richly
gilded statue of Lord Buddha occupies the
middle of the northern side. It is seated on
a lotus throne flanked by his two Principal
attendants Maudgalyayana and Sariputra,
each with a staff and begging bowl in hand.
It is the largest image of the monastery
and is about 25 feet high. Except for the
northern wall of the hall, all the other walls
are adorned with beautiful life-size frescos
of various divinities and saints.
Nearby is the Ugyenling Monastery,
which is the birthplace of the 6th Dalai
Lama and thus is significantly important.
Two of the largest nunneries, in the region
are in the close vicinity of Tawang – the Nuranang Waterfalls
Gyangong Ani Gompa (dating back to the A great sight is also the Chumi Gyatse and
same time as Tawang) and Bramadung the Nuranang waterfalls. Chumi Gyatse

SENIORS TODAY | ISSUE #45 | MARCH 2023 33