Pharping

In the 8th century, Guru Padmasambhava practiced tantric sadhanas in these caves and attained the Mahamudra vidyadhara level. In the 11th century, the Pamtingpa brothers transmitted Vajrayogini teachings that shaped Tibetan Buddhism.

Guru Padmasambhava—the master who would bring Buddhism to Tibet—came to these caves in the 8th century to practice the sadhana of Yangdak Heruka with his consort, the Nepali princess Shakyadevi. Their practice generated obstacles: local spirits caused a three-year drought, bringing famine and disease.

Guru Rinpoche sent messengers to India requesting teachings to overcome the obstacles. They returned with the tantras and commentaries of Vajrakilaya. The moment these texts arrived, the obstacles were pacified. Guru Rinpoche and Shakyadevi completed their practice, both attaining the third vidyadhara level—Mahamudra realization.

Three centuries later, the Pamtingpa brothers—Dharmamati and Vagishvara—established themselves here as masters of Chakrasamvara and Hevajra practice. They transmitted the Vajrayogini teachings that would become central to Tibetan Buddhism. Marpa Lotsawa, the famous translator who brought many teachings to Tibet, visited the Pharping Vajrayogini temple at least three times during his journeys.