Demu Monastery in Nyingchi

Demu Monastery is an important cultural symbol in the history of Tibet. The noted geographic name - Lulang in Nyingchi is closely related to Demu Monastery. The location of Demu Monastery is regarded as "a place for the immortals" by the Fifth Dalai Lama who passed by here with the Fourth Living Buddha of Demu Monastery. This region was called Lulang since then. Lulang means "the Dragon King's Palace" or "the Dragon King's Valley" in Tibetan.

History of Demu Monastery in Nyingchi

Demu Monastery belongs to Gelug Sect of Tibetan Buddhism. The Fifth Dalai Lama attached great importance to this monastery for its location. Actually, Demu Monastery is located at the communication hub of Gongbu Area, Bome Area and even Qamdo Area. Besides, Demu Monastery enjoys high reputation and has a strong strength among the devout followers of Tibetan Buddhism around this area.

The original Demu Monastery is located in Lulang Town while the reconstructed Demu Monastery is located in Mirui County. An ancient tea-horse road hidden in the dense forest connects the two historical spots together. This section of ancient tea-horse road, which witnessed the change of the history, is about 25 kilometers long. The rugged road always reminds tourists the history composed of horses and the sound of bells.

The reconstructed Demu Monastery in Mirui County was completely destroyed in an earthquake in 1950. The existing Demu Monastery was constructed by the 10th Living Buddha of Demu Monastery in 1952. The renovation work lasted to 1990s and was completed in 1994 finally.

Special Religious Dance of Demu Monastery in Nyingchi

Demu Monastery in Nyingchi is quite noted for its special religious dance – Demu Qiammu, which could be dated back to 13th century. The First Living Buddha of Demu Monastery created the original Demu Qiammu composed of various religious figures. In 1635, the 4th Living Buddha of Demu Monastery recomposed the Demu Qiammu and it became a complete religious dance. The formal religious dance would be performed on Aug.28th, 29th and 30th in public according to the Tibetan calendar. Later, Demu Qiammu was spread to the monasteries in other regions of Tibet.