The Nuns of the Padmasambhava Caves

BENEFICIARIES: 38 nuns of the Padmasambhava Caves

Location: Tso Pema (Himachal Pradesh) 

Project: 

In the aftermath of China’s occupation of Tibet, many monks and nuns were forced to escape to India and Nepal to be able to pursue their spiritual paths. Dolma, Tsewang, Bumchung, and 35 other nuns joined their teacher, Lama Wangdor, in the hermitage of the Padmasambhava Caves in Tso Pema. They live here in small huts to this day, dedicating themselves to studying Dharma, meditating, and reciting mantras.

Since 2019, when Lama Wangdor passed away, the living conditions of the nuns have become significantly more challenging. Their sole source of support are the offerings they receive from pilgrims visiting the sacred caves and the proceeds from the sale of butter lamps. Although they have electricity, they have no running water. They collect rainwater for washing and cooking but need to travel to the villages in the valley below for drinking water.

How your support makes a difference: 

Your sponsorship commitment helps us provide long-term and continuing support to the nuns in the caves, who are custodians of a hidden treasure: the cultural and spiritual heritage of Tibet.