The Cave Bringing death to an End
Maratika cave or ‘Chi ba mthar byed’ means (“The Cave Bringing death to an End”). Maratika Monastery are located in the Khotang District of East-Nepal, approximately 185 km south west of Mount Everest, at the hilly region between the holy rivers Dudh Koshi to the right and Sun Koshi to the left. In the local dialect it is also known as ‘Haleshi’. What does Maratika cave known for? It is well known for the richness of history, mythology and sacred location geology despite its greatest isolation, It is also one of the most sacred place among the Hindus, Buddhists and Rais.
For Tibetan Buddhists in particular, it is the site of immortality, one of the six supreme pilgrimage sites in the world. Besides that, it is the place where the great master, the second Buddha Padmasambhava and Dakini Mandarava obtained the realization of immortal life. Maratika was also blessed by the family of three protectors Manjushri, Vajrapani and Avalokitesavara.The sacred caves of Maratika have been a very important pilgrimage destination for Buddhist seeking to engage in the long life practices for many years. Due to its historical connection with Padmasambhava the Lotus Born Guru, and the family of the three protectors, it is particularly sacred within the Rime or Non Sectarian movement in Tibetan Buddhism in general and within the Vajrajana vehicle in particular.
There are four secret paths of the caves that symbolise in bringing liberation from the eighteen hell realms.
The entrance resembles a half moon and faces towards the east, while the path leading to it comes from the south. there’s a large number of trees grow in that place, the birds sing melodiously and there are many sweetly scented flowers. In front is a self-created lake, and at the distance of an arrow shoot is the self-created, Secret Cave of the Guru.
It is said that by putting
that blessed water in the mouth, the five heinous negative actions are
purified
However, the second entrance is known as the Meditation Cave of the eight means of Attainment and inside is the self-created stone of the flesh, blood and soul of the liberated (or liberating) female demons. At the left of this door is a turquoise conch shell. Just by hearing it’s sound, the evil states of cyclic existence are shattered. Five hundred Arhats are said to have visited this place. Inside is the Guru’s blessed water. It is said that by putting that blessed water in the mouth, the five heinous negative actions are purified and inside are the Guru’s footprint and the self-created, unobstructed Door of the Sky. Whereas the above are the Guru’s healing place and self-created Thigh-bone trumpet and hat
We invite you to join us for The Pilgrimage to Maratika Caves and Monastery in the year 2025. Interested? Please contact ……
