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Dhauligiri |
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Dhauligiri is a pilgrimage site for Buddhists. Of all the sites of pilgrimage in the Kali Gandaki region this mountain has the most merit. It is said to have been blessed by all those who have attained Buddhahood. It is closely associated with Padmasampa, who brought the great Buddhist liberation to Tibet. Whoever worships at Dhauligiri closes the door of potential evil rebirths. Meditating here prevents failure (although at what is uncertain). If one dies here one quickly gains Buddhahood. Buddhists see the summit of Dhauligiri as resembling a conch shell. Conch shells are used as wind instruments in the gompas. They are symbolic of the cyclic nature of samsaric existence. Inside the mountain is a treasury for the happiness and prosperity of the whole world. The snows are said to be encircled by 500 jewels which eliminate poverty in the world. Waves of compassion flow from Dhauligiri to embrace all living beings. Dhauligiri is the source of happiness for the whole world. With so much going for it, who could possibly resist a visit to Dhauligiri? Not even the legendary Padmasampa of Urgyan who retreated here to a cave for meditation. The cave is to the north east of Dhauligiri, above the village of Larjung. Just outside the cave is a spring whose bubbling is said to make an 'Om' like sound. By merely hearing this sound one may gain enlightenment (sounds like Zen!). Drinking the water will lead one to Buddhahood in the space of one lifetime (again rather Zen like). The cave is consecrated continually by the Buddhas. The cave is still a popular place of pilgrimage, particularly given its remarkable karma merit properties. It is reached from Larjung. Padmasampa no doubt flew up here using his magical lama powers.
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