The Nagarjuna Cave

Just as you keep walking from Fulbari gate to Mudku road, you will be spellbound by the interesting Nagarjuna cave on your left. While the Tibetans call this as the Cave of Guru Rinpoche, the local population still knows this cave by the name of Shanti Gupha or the Nagarjuna Cave. As you enter the cave's channel gate, you will come across a huge metal statue of Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche) brightened by many glowing butter lamps. The 'Om Mani Padme Hum' carvings on the rocks beside this statue are believed to invoke blessings of Chenrezig, the Bodhisattva (embodiment) of Compassion. Look around the cave, and you will notice many multi-coloured tormas and multi-forms of Buddha sculptures that add charm to those Tibetan scripts, and to the cave of course! Two intimidating narrow paths can be seen on either side of the Padmasambhava statue. Taking a right here will take you to Dhading while a left will take you to Ichangu. Well, that is what we were told. Jokes and tall tales aside, if you want to explore this cave, better carry a bright torchlight, oxygen pack and some courage too because it's really dark and suffocating. What makes this cave more engrossing are the folktales that have been associated with it! It is said that the famous sage Nagarjuna, after whom the forest was named, often meditated in this cave. He discovered many Buddhist deities and Tantric Shastras (sacred scriptures in Buddhism) which is still followed by the Tibetan Buddhists. He also conquered a Naag(serpent) that rose the water level of this cave. Later, he died in this cave. And eventually, the cave was named after him. Interestingly, the serpent which he had conquered is believed to supply water deep inside the cave even today! However, the affirmation of these folktales and paths haven't yet been supported by any kind of concrete research. So, they still remain a legend! Regardless, this cave is an interesting little detour during your hike to Nagarjun.