In the heart of Thak Thini village, nestled in the vast and rugged landscape, lies a sacred and revered place known as Lakhim Karpo. To the followers of Aya Dharma sect of Bon religion, this temple holds great significance, as it is more than just a normal gumba—it is a living testament to the connection between nature and the nature worshipping, Bon religion. It is believed that the Supreme Holy Religious Leader, Ve Inlang Ghum, along with later religious leaders, discovered and consecrated certain natural sites—snow-capped peaks, lakes, towering stones, and ancient trees—as holy spaces. These places, such as Som Namu, Lhe Yuma, Mesokantu, and Kudle Kyonaka, were recognized as embodiments of nature’s goddess deities, and devotees would worship them by placing a kutu (devotional seat) on these sacred grounds. Over time, some of these natural shrines have faded away, but the belief in nature’s power continues to guide the spiritual practices of the people.
Aya Dharma, an ancient religious sect rooted in the Bon tradition, is believed to be one of the oldest religions of humanity, originating from early human reverence for nature. It was taught by Purush Durke Inlang Ghum, the ancestral figure of the Nasti, Bharti, and Sarti Fope families. These three children of Bhu Mranlang Ghum were known as Aylams—spiritual leaders with distinct roles. Namti Lam was the protector of nature, performing rituals to safeguard the environmental balance and shield communities from natural disasters. Bharti Lam focused on human life rituals, guiding individuals from birth to death, while Sarti Lam honored the earth, serpents, and agriculture.
Over time, as the relationship between Namti Lam and Sarti Lam broke down, Bharti Lam took
on a larger role, combining the practices of both to address the evolving challenges of human life. In response to changing times and hardships, the Aya Dharma gurus adapted their rituals, incorporating deities from both Hinduism and Buddhism to offer relief. This included invoking gods from all over Nepal such as Pashupatinath, Mahakali, Swayambhunath, Cheku Lhungku Tulku, Mahakali, Bhairav, etc.
The lineage of Bharti Phope’s ancestors traces back to Purusha Khe Hanlang Ghum, whose spirit is said to have merged with the earth formed from kadu (hard rock), shim (sand and gravel), sa (clay), and dho (bung), in the region of Kailash Mountain in Tibet. The burial place of Bharti Phope is located in Thini village, where the sacred cemetery, known as Bhu-Banot, rests, marking a connection between the earthly realm and the divine. Through its deep reverence for nature and the spiritual world, Aya Dharma continues to honor the balance of life, nature, and the cosmos.
Among the places of worship, Lakhim Karpo stands out as a man-made temple, yet it remains deeply connected to this ancient tradition. The name itself is meaningful: “La” refers to the goddess, “Khim” means house, and “Karpo” translates to white, so it is known as the “White Temple.” This sacred temple is located in the central part of Thak Thini village, a place where the teachings and blessings of divine beings are sought for the welfare of all.
It is said that Khe Inlang Ghum, a revered leader, gathered deities from various holy sites across the land—Bharatvarsh (Ancient civilization), Tibet, and China—to offer their blessings for the benefit of humanity. Among the divine beings honored here are goddesses and powerful spirits such as Chhaiv Dhongtang Bhayo (Bhomo Maa), Mahashakti Dev Chaiv Tetang Bhyo, and Chhev Lj Kesum Mhi, to name a few. These deities, along with many others, are believed to offer their protection and guidance to those who seek their favor.
One of the most important rituals at Lakhim Karpo is the Lma Fev, a sacred ceremony held once every twelve years in honor of Goddess Chhev Dhongtangbhyo. During this time, devotees gather to receive blessings, especially for fertility and family prosperity, as it is believed that the goddess bestows blessings upon couples and children. The people of Thak Thini affectionately refer to Lakhim Karpo as Lakhi, a symbol of the enduring spiritual connection between the people and the divine forces that guide their lives. Lakhim Karpo is not just a place of worship; it is a living part of the community’s spiritual journey, a bridge between the natural world and the divine, where ancient beliefs and rituals continue to thrive in the heart of the mountains.
Congratulations! You have completed this trek.
Now, you can start a new trek or further explore the Thini Village. There is so much more to uncover here. Authentic Thakali food, Thakali folk music, Tasty Local Apples, Local Apple Brandy, Apple Chips and other varieties. There are other famous places such as Muktinath, Jomsom and Kagbeni that you can visit from here. If you are feeling more adventurous, you can try Sacred Nilgiri Trek that offers excellent views of majestic mountains, stories of local festivals, lifestyle and unique wildlife in their natural habitat. Snow Leopard are normally found on the higher altitudes but now their preying zones are gradually shifting to the lower area. There are even video evidences of their ambush attacks on live stocks in Namughang which is a clear sign of Global warming. However, you can enjoy this trek by finding out more about this illusive camouflaged predator, its prey and its ambush sites where it hides before its attack.
