The Archive of Mongar Dzong, like many monastic repositories, houses an extensive collection of religious scriptures. Among its treasures are a complete set of the Kanjur, the collected works of Pema Karpo, and a variety of miscellaneous manuscripts covering diverse subjects. Most of the collection is written on cream-colored Bhutanese handmade paper using black ink. The archive also includes several block prints produced from woodblocks carved in various regions of Bhutan and Tibet. All manuscripts are presented in the traditional poti style, featuring loose-format volumes of varying sizes. Notably, a significant portion of the collection, including the Kanjur, is believed to have originated from Zhonggar Dzong, which was tragically destroyed by fire many years ago. Preserved as a sacred relic, the Archive of Mongar Dzong is housed within the Central Tower of the Dzong. Carefully stored on traditional bookshelves, the manuscripts are wrapped in layers of cloth, secured between two wooden boards, and fastened with string. These meticulous preservation practices reflect the deep reverence and care dedicated to safeguarding this invaluable spiritual heritage.
Extent: 1 collection of manuscripts containing 169 volumes.
Custodial history: The majority of the collection housed in Mongar Dzong originated from Zhongar Dzong. It was transferred to the present-day Mongar Dzong when the administrative center relocated in the mid-19th century following a fire that destroyed Zhongar Dzong. During its early years, Mongar Dzong served as both the administrative center and the residence of the Mongar Dzongpon, under whose custodianship the collection remained. In the mid-20th century, a monastic body was established at Mongar Dzong, led by the Lama Neten. Since then, the custodianship of the collection has been transferred to the monastic body. Today, the collection is managed by designated monk caretakers under the guidance and leadership of the Lama Neten.
Arrangement: The Mongar collection does not follow a specific system of arrangement at the collection level. However, it is broadly classified into three categories: Zhongkar Kanjur, Works of Pema Karpo, and Miscellaneous Collection.
Author(s)/Creator(s): The majority of the collection housed in Mongar Dzong was produced at Zhongar Dzong by various individuals between the 17th and 19th centuries. Additionally, the collection includes blockprints created from woodblocks carved in various locations across Bhutan, as well as in Tibet.
