2022 - Design
Project Type: Culture | Geography: Nepal
The Shenteng Thagya Ling Monastery occupies a pivotal position in the Village of Pangling , just a 20 minute drive north of Jomsom Airport, Mustang. Perched on a cliff, the site faces the Kali Gandaki River, that has literally been the economic and cultural lifeline of Mustang for centuries. From the plateau, the stepped massing of the Monastery commands the views of the surrounding hills and the great Himalayan Range beyond.
The Monastery is accessed via the main road running along the opposite bank of the river.
Rooted in the religious and vernacular planning principles, the Monastery comprises of 14 interconnected courtyards of varying sizes. These courtyards are both social and environmental spaces. The largest and most important being at the center which serves as the organizing feature. To its west is the main Temple, east is the main entry way and health clinic, to its north is majority of the Monk Quarter and in the south is Children’s home.
The circumambulatory path following an outline of Mandala defines the inner Monastery compound. Outside is an open space that complements various activities of monastic life including farming.
FACTS
Site area:19 Acre
Built-up area: 66,000 SF
Design Director: Kiran Mathema
Consultant Team: Ajaya Mathema, Dipesh Shrestha, Parmila Maharjan, Bibek Shrestha, Anu Maharjan, Stoj Shakya, Sushant Bhaila, Anugya Pradhan