Thangtong Gyalpo

CHINA, Tibet, Shigatse

Thangtong Gyalpo, originally known as Tsundru Zangpo, was a Buddhist monk, artist, physician, architect, and a pioneer of civil engineering. He was born in Ngamring, Shigatse and received his education in Jangding Monastery. Later, after studying the Buddhist Canon in Ngamring Monastery, he took his full monastic vows in Doto Kyara Monastery.
He traveled to many different places, such as Nepal, India, China, and much of Tibet. Wherever he encountered difficulties in his journeys, he vowed to build bridges and ferry crossings for the people. To raise funds for the construction of bridges, he established a song and dance troupe. Today, Thangtong Gyalpo is best known for his founding of the Tibetan opera, Ache Lhamo. He is thought to have constructed 108 iron-chain suspension bridges, although other sources have found 58 suspension bridges and 118 ferry-crossings built by him.
In addition to architecture and engineering, Thangtong Gyalpo was interested in creating sculptures and artifacts, as well as being a proficient blacksmith.