Traditional dance at Sakya Tangyud Gonpa 1/3

Although it is considered by locals to be very ancient, an examination of the present fortified structure modelled on a Chinese castle, and other circumstantial evidence, makes it likely that it was built early in the 14th century when the Sakyapas rose to power under Mongol patronage.Handa (1987), pp. 83-85.It is thought, however, that there was an earlier Kadampa establishment here founded by Rinchen Zangpo (958-1055 CE) and named Rador-lha.Handa (1987), p. 83, n. 36. The name, Tangyud, may refer to the Sakya revision of the Tang-rGyud, or the 87 volumes of Tantra treatises which form part of the Tengyur. This was carried out about 1310 CE by a team of scholars under the Sakya lama, Ch'os-Kyi-O'd-zer.Handa (1987), pp. 83-84.The monastery is patronised by the 'Nonos' or local chieftains of Spiti and the monastery has a special cell built into southeastern side for them when they visit.Handa (1987), p. 85, plan of monastery.Kapadia (1999), pp.37, 39-40; 204. Tangyud village is at the foot of the monastery (altitude 4,470 m or 14,665 ft). The monastery itself was apparently badly damaged in the earthquake of 1972.