Dorjee Zong Nunnery

https://youtu.be/PvYnJpA-48Q

Dorjee Zong Nunnery is an ancient Tibetan Buddhist nunnery situated in the remote, high-altitude region of Zanskar in northern India, near Ladakh. Founded in the 14th century by Master Sherab Zangpo—renowned as the Bodhisattva from the upper region of Tibet and one of the chief disciples of Tsongkhapa Lobsang Drakpa (1357–1419), the founder of the Geluk order—the nunnery has a long-standing tradition of meditation and monastic education.

As one of the oldest centers for monastic learning in Zanskar, Dorjee Zong Nunnery has been home to many highly accomplished practitioners who have devoted their entire lives to dharma. Among them was Khandroma Yeshi Lhamo, popularly known as Jomo Shelama, a highly realized practitioner famed for her spiritual attainments.

In 2009, the nunnery was accepted into the Tibetan Nuns Project’s sponsorship program, which supports education for girls and women. Currently, about 20 nuns reside at the nunnery. The eldest are in their 90s, while the youngest receive primary education up to Grade 5 within the nunnery,

Our journey to Dorjee Zong Nunnery in the remote region of Zanskar was a profound experience that left an indelible mark on our hearts. Nestled high in the mountains of northern India, near Ladakh, the nunnery stood as a beacon of serenity amidst the rugged landscape.

As we approached the centuries-old monastery, the crisp mountain air filled our lungs, and the distant sound of children’s laughter grew clearer with each step. The nuns, dressed in traditional maroon robes, greeted us with warm smiles and open hearts, and their gestures of hospitality made us feel immediately welcome.

We spent our days immersed in the nunnery’s daily routines. We joined them for morning prayers. We listened to harmonious chants while drinking our steaming hot milk tea, creating an atmosphere of peace and contemplation. Sitting among them, we felt a deep connection to the spiritual energy that permeated the place.

One of the most enlightening aspects of our stay was engaging with the elder nuns, some of whom were in their 90s. We took two of them to a hospital in Zanskar for diagnosis and treatment, hoping to improve their quality of life. Their dedication to a life of meditation and service was truly inspiring.

We also spent time with the young nuns studying primary school classes and scripture. The school hosts 22 primary school-level students, half of whom are nuns, and the other half are children from the community. The school is known to be the best school in the area. All the students are eager to learn and have ambitions to pursue their spiritual education and become teachers or doctors. All of them were eager to learn and practice English. We were recruited to help teach English, mathematics, and science.

Supported by the Tibetan Nuns Project since 2009, they balance their traditional studies with modern education up to Grade 5. Their enthusiasm for learning and their dreams for the future filled us with hope.

Leaving Dorjee Zong was bittersweet. We carried with us not only memories of breathtaking landscapes and ancient traditions but also a profound appreciation for the resilience and grace of the nuns who call it home. Their commitment to spiritual growth reminded us of the enduring power of faith and compassion.

Our time at Dorjee Zong Nunnery was more than a visit; it was a journey into the heart of Tibetan Buddhism and a testament to the strength of the human spirit. We left with hearts full of gratitude and a hope to return to this haven of peace and enlightenment.

https://youtu.be/PvYnJpA-48Q