Most conch shells spiral counter-clockwise. This one does not. Its whorl begins at the centre of the tip and turns to the right, clockwise — the direction in which stupas are circumambulated, in which offerings are made, and in which the hair of a Buddha curls. A Right-turning conch shell horn occurs only rarely in nature, and Tibetan tradition has prized them above all others for as long as the conch has been sounded in the monasteries. Ours is hand carved in Patan, Nepal, by traditional artisans, and measures 7 inches tall by 4 inches wide.
Three Deities Carved in Relief
Across the body of this conch shell horn the artisan has carved three figures whose arrangement is deliberate. Shakyamuni Buddha, the historical Buddha and source of the teaching the conch proclaims, crowns the shell at the top, with Chenrezig, Bodhisattva of Compassion, and Manjushri, Bodhisattva of Wisdom, carved into the flanks on either side — the two qualities that carry a practitioner to awakening, set beneath the one who achieved it. Whether the horn is sounded or simply kept on the altar, the carving holds that arrangement in view.
Right-Turning Conch Shell Horn ‒ The Voice of the Dharma
Known as the dungkar in Tibetan and shankha in Sanskrit, the right-turning conch shell horn is one of the eight auspicious symbols of Buddhism, and the one that stands for the Buddha’s speech. Its deep, carrying note represents the melodious, resonant and pervasive sound of the Dharma reaching in every direction, waking beings from the sleep of ignorance. In the monasteries it is sounded to call the assembly to prayer, to open ceremonies and to mark processions — a role the conch has held since it was offered to the Buddha at his first teaching. See our full range of conch shell horns and Tibetan ritual items.
A Note Before You Order
This conch shell horn is a genuine marine shell, not a reproduction, and complimentary worldwide shipping is included in the price. Because it is an authentic natural item, some countries restrict the import of marine products — please check with your local customs office before completing your purchase, as we cannot be responsible for goods held or refused at the border. You can view our full shipping policy here. As with every natural shell, colour, weight and tone vary from piece to piece; if you would like photographs of the exact horn before it ships, just ask.
Authentic, Handmade in Nepal
Every ritual item is handcrafted in Patan, Nepal, using traditional Newar metalworking and carving methods and comes with a certificate of authenticity issued by Nepal’s Department of Archaeology, verifying its materials, technique, and origin.
