Nestled in the serene Nyinba Valley of Nepal, Raling Gumba stands as a remarkable testament to the country's rich Buddhist heritage. A journey to this sacred site not only indulges the spiritual seeker but also delights the explorer with its panoramic mountain vistas and vibrant cultural festivals.
Raling Gumba, or the 'Raling Monastery,' is perched amidst a picturesque landscape, bathed in the peace and tranquillity that are emblematic of this Himalayan nation. The location of this sacred site in Humla, flanked by towering pine trees and junipers, only adds to its mystical allure. As one embarks on the ascend towards this Buddhist retreat, the expansive view of the Nyinba Valley unfolds in all its glory. The vista is adorned with majestic peaks like Ribuche Mountain, the Changla Range, and Pungrikar Mountain, forming a splendid backdrop that feels almost ethereal.
The trek to Raling Gumba begins at Simikot, with a three-hour trail leading to the last village in the area, Nimatang. Even under the brilliant sunlight, Nimatang stays true to its name, meaning \'Cold Sun\' in the local language. The final part of the trek to Raling Gumba takes about 3 to 4 hours from Nimatang, offering an immersive experience for both the spiritual pilgrim and nature lover. The stone-paved road, situated at an altitude of nearly 3930 meters, often seems to lead into the clouds during the monsoon season, lending a dreamy aura to the journey. The pathway is adorned with ancient Buddhist verses etched onto stones, making every step an encounter with spiritual wisdom.
As the trail meanders into the secluded enclave of Raling Gumba, the site reveals its age-old cultural traditions. Four significant festivals mark the annual calendar of this 1200-year-old monastery, the most notable being the Saga Dawa festival in May. Celebrating Lord Buddha\'s enlightenment and teachings, Saga Dawa is a vibrant spectacle featuring elaborate rituals, ceremonies, and mask dances. Pilgrims from across the Nyinba Valley, draped in their most elegant traditional attire, gather in great numbers for the festival. Despite Mount Kailash being the primary venue, the celebrations at Raling Gumba are equally fervent and spiritually uplifting.
Arriving at Raling Gumba feels like stepping back in time, primarily when you explore the main worshipping place, intriguingly nestled under a cave of stones. Believed to be 1200 years old, this ancient space resonates with the chants and prayers that have echoed within its confines over centuries. The care and maintenance of the monastery are undertaken by five villages - Nimatang, Dorpahutik, Bureaus, Bargau, Dojam - in a yearly rotation, demonstrating a sense of shared responsibility and unity.
Recently gaining traction among tourists, Raling Gumba now hosts emerging accommodations like hotels and teahouses, offering travelers a place to rest and replenish. Legend has it that a night's stay here might make one's wishes come true, a belief that adds an enticing allure to the place. As you wander around, you would find the landscape punctuated by magnificent rocks, verdant flora, and diverse fauna.
Visiting Raling Gumba is more than just a religious pilgrimage. It is a journey of cultural discovery, a deep dive into ancient Buddhist traditions, and an encounter with Nepal's stunning natural beauty. Whether you are a spiritual seeker, a history buff, or a nature lover, Raling Gumba offers a fascinating retreat to a tranquil world, seemingly untouched by time.