Gumba

Gumba at Pakhribas is formally known as Shree Nepal Bouddha Gumba Bikas Samiti Pakhribas, Dhankuta. The Buddhists around Pakhribas Bazaar (especially from Gurung and Tamang ethnic roots) established a temporary monastery at the far-end of the Bazaar in 2054 B.S.

The monastery was built as the need arose for a shrine where they could practice and propagate their faith.

The Gumba of Pakhribas moved to its new building in 2060B.S. which was inaugurated by the then Prime Minister Surya Bahadur Thapa. The local Buddhists had set up a committee and out of their own efforts, they managed to construct a monastery for themselves.

The monastery is frequented daily by the Buddhists, and Hindus alike. It performs all the necessary rituals for the villagers of Pakhribas. The ceremonies consist of birth, death, marriage, naming of infants, alms and prayers.

On every Buddha Purnima, the monastery initiates a peace rally which goes around the town of Pakhribas. Devotees carry effigies of Buddha, placards for world peace and incense pots. The lamas play their drums and horns and pray for the overall well-being of the people of Pakhribas and the world.

The rally converges at the monastery where the participants wish each other.

The new year of Gurungs, known as Tamu Loshar, is also celebrated grandly. The Gurungs with other enthusiasts celebrate it with dances, songs and delicacies.

Shree Nepal Bouddha Gumba Bikas Samiti Pakhribas, Dhankuta

• Chairperson – Mr. Bhakta Bahadur Gurung
• Vice-Chairperson – Mr. Shyam Bahadur Gurung
• Secretary – Mr. Gyan Bahadur Gurung
• Treasurer – Mr. Harka Bahadur Gurung

Gumba Pictures