Top 10 Must-Visit Tibetan Monasteries and Temples

 

When you travel in Tibet, visiting a Tibetan monastery is not merely a sightseeing experience; it is also an invitation of soul journey. Monasteries and temples are important centers of spiritual and cultural life in Tibet, and are often worshipped by tourists and pilgrims from all over the world. They offer a glimpse into the rich heritage of Tibetan Buddhism and the unique way of life of its practitioners. In this article, you’ll find all you need to know about Tibetan monasteries and temples.

Top 10 Must-Visit Tibetan Monasteries in Tibet 

At the heart of Tibetan culture are the many monasteries and temples that dot this holy land.  Here are the top 10 Tibetan monasteries (including temples) that are must-visit destinations in Tibet for travelers or followers of Buddhism.

1. Jokhang Temple - The Holiest Temple in Tibet
Considered one of the most sacred temples in Tibet, the Jokhang Temple is located in the heart of Lhasa. It was built in the 7th century and is known for its stunning architecture, and is most famous for the golden roof and ornate carvings. This temple also houses numerous precious Buddhist relics, including a statue of the young Buddha Sakyamuni. Jokhang is a significant pilgrimage site for Tibetan Buddhists and has vibrant atmosphere, as you’ll see devotees performing prostrations and circumambulations around the temple.

Note: Temples and monasteries may have similar functions in terms of worship and religious practice, the key difference lies in their organizational structure and purpose. Temples are generally open to the public and serve as a place of worship for a larger community, while monasteries are often more focused on the spiritual growth and development of their individual members. That said, a monastery is more like a college, serving as a center of learning, where monks and nuns study Buddhist philosophy, art, and culture.

2. Ramoche Temple - The Most Important Temple in Lhasa after the Jokhang 
Ramoche Temple, also known as the sister temple to the Jokhang, is a Tibetan Buddhist temple located in the northwestern part of Lhasa. The temple was originally built in the 7th century during the reign of King Songtsen Gampo, and is dedicated to the worship of Buddha and houses a number of sacred artifacts and statues, including a statue of the 8-year-old Jowo Shakyamuni, which is said to be the most important statue in Tibet after the Jowo statue in the Jokhang Temple. 

3. Sera Monastery - Known for Its Famous Debates Session
Founded in 1419 by a disciple of the Buddhist scholar Je Tsongkhapa, Sera Monastery quickly gained recognition as a center for learning and religious practice. The name "Sera" means "wild rose" in the Tibetan language, and it is believed that the hills surrounding the monastery were once covered with wild roses. Sera Monastery is one of the great Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) monasteries of Tibet. It is located just a few kilometers north of Lhasa and is famous for its monks’ lively debating session, which attracts numerous visitors. The debates follow a structured format and aim to enhance the monks' understanding of Buddhist philosophy, sharpen their critical thinking skills, and strengthen their arguments. The participants engage in animated discussions while employing gestures, claps, and stomps to emphasize their points.

4. Drepung Monastery - Once the World's Largest Monastery
Drepung Monastery is one of the largest and most important monasteries in Tibet, and once the largest monastery in the world, with over 10,000 monks living within its walls. It’s situated about 5 kilometers from the western suburb of Lhasa, and the name "Drepung" means "rice heap" in Tibetan, which refers to its location on the slopes of Mount Gephel. The monastery was founded in 1416 by Jamyang Chojey, a disciple of Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. Drepung Monastery was initially established as a center for the study of Buddhist philosophy, and it became renowned for its teachings on the doctrine of emptiness.

                                                                                  4 Days Lhasa Highlights Tour

5. Ganden Monastery - One of the Three Great Monasteries of the Gelugpa Sect
Situated in the picturesque Kyi Chu Valley, Ganden Monastery is one of the three great monasteries of the Gelugpa sect, along with Sera and Drepung Monasteries. Founded in the 15th century by Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelugpa school of Tibetan Buddhism, Ganden Monastery is known for its stunning mountain scenery and spiritual significance. The monastery is also home to numerous precious Buddhist artifacts, including rare scriptures and thangkas (religious paintings). One of the highlights of visiting Ganden Monastery is the challenging Kora, a pilgrimage circuit that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

                                                                          5 Days Lhasa with Ganden Monastery Tour

6. Samye Monastery - The First Monastery in Tibet
Built in the 8th century, the Samye Monastery is the first monastery to have been established in Tibet. It is located in the scenic Yarlung Valley and is famous for its unique mandala-shaped  architectural design (represents the universe in Tibetan Buddhism), which combines Indian, Chinese, and Tibetan elements. 

                                                                            5 Days Lhasa with Samye Monastery Tour

7. Pelkor Chode Monastery - Unique Blend of Tibetan, Nepali, and Han Chinese Architectural Styles
Located in the historic town of Gyantse, Pelkor Chode Monastery is known for its unique blend of Tibetan, Nepali, and Han Chinese architectural styles. The monastery is famous for its impressive Kumbum Stupa, which is a nine-story structure with over 100 chapels, adorned with thousands of murals and statues, making it a masterpiece of Tibetan art. Pelkor Chode Monastery also houses a large collection of ancient scriptures, thangkas, and other Buddhist artifacts, offering visitors a glimpse into Tibet's rich spiritual heritage.

8. Tashilhunpo Monastery - Home of Panchen Lama
Situated in the bustling town of Shigatse, Tashilhunpo Monastery was founded in the 15th century by the first Dalai Lama, and it’s now one of the most important monasteries in Tibet. Tashilhunpo serves as the seat of the Panchen Lama, the second-highest spiritual leader in Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery is renowned for its impressive golden-roofed main hall, which houses a giant statue of the Maitreya Buddha, as well as its stunning murals, frescoes, and thangkas.

                                                                           6 Days Lhasa-Gyantse-Shigatse Tour

9. Sakya Monastery - Unique Mongolian-style Architecture
Located in the Shigatse region of Tibet, Sakya Monastery is known for its distinctive gray walls and unique Mongolian-style architecture. It is one of the oldest monasteries in Tibet, dating back to the 11th century, and is a significant center for the Sakya school of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery houses a vast collection of ancient Buddhist scriptures, thangkas, and other precious artifacts. The main hall of Sakya Monastery is adorned with stunning murals depicting Buddhist deities, making it a must-visit destination for art and history enthusiasts.

10. Rongbuk Monastery - The Highest Monastery in the World
Situated at the base camp of Mount Everest in Tibet, the Rongbuk Monastery is one of the highest monasteries in the world, sitting at an altitude of 4,980 meters (16,340 feet). It was founded in the early 20th century and has become a popular destination for trekkers and mountaineers who are attempting to summit Mount Everest. The monastery offers breathtaking panoramic views of the world's highest peak and its surrounding snow-capped Himalayan peaks. Rongbuk Monastery is a place of spiritual significance for climbers and pilgrims alike, who come to seek blessings before embarking on their Everest expeditions.

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Visit Tibetan Monastery during Festivals 

Tibetan monasteries and temples also serve as important hubs for public gatherings, where Tibetans come together to celebrate festivals, receive blessings, and seek guidance from the spiritual leaders. These monastic complexes serve as a focal point for the social, cultural, and religious life of the Tibetan people, providing a sense of identity, belonging, and cohesion within the community.

1. Why visit Tibetan monastery during festivals? 

Visiting Tibetan monastery during festivals is an excellent way to experience their culture and spirituality. Tibetan festivals are deeply rooted in their religious traditions, and visiting a monastery during a festival provides a glimpse into their way of life. It is an opportunity to witness their rituals, art, and customs up close and gain a better understanding of their culture. 
The monasteries themselves are architectural marvels, with intricate designs and vibrant colors that are a feast for the eyes. They are also home to precious relics, scriptures, and art that are of great historical and spiritual significance. By visiting during a festival, you can see these artifacts up close and learn about their history and significance.

2. What to expect when visiting Tibetan monastery during festivals? 

During the festivals, the monasteries also organize various cultural events such as traditional dance performances, music concerts, and exhibitions of religious art. These events provide a unique opportunity to witness the local culture and interact with the people. You can also try traditional Tibetan cuisine, which is a gastronomical delight.

Cham dance performance at Tibetan monastery during Tibetan New Year 

The Tibetan New Year, also known as Losar, is one of the most important festivals in Tibetan culture. It is typically celebrated in February or March and lasts for 15 days. During this time, Tibetan monasteries play a central role in the festivities, hosting a range of activities and events. Among them, Samye Monastery is famous for its annual Cham dance performance, where monks dressed in elaborate costumes and masks perform intricate dances that tell stories from Tibetan mythology. The dances are believed to purify the mind and soul and are a highlight of the festival. Visitors can also participate in the lighting of traditional butter lamps, which are believed to dispel darkness and negative energy.

Buddha Thangka unveiling at Tibetan monastery during Shoton Festival

Also known as the Yogurt Festival, Shoton Festival is a popular festival in Tibet that celebrates the end of the fasting season for Tibetan monks. It’s held in August or September, and Drepung Monastery is an important site for this festival. During the festival, thousands of locals and tourists flock to the monastery to witness the various activities and events that take place. One of the main activities at the Shoton Festival at Drepung Monastery is the unveiling of a large Thangka painting of the Buddha. The Thangka, which measures several stories tall and is made of intricate silk embroidery, is slowly unrolled from the roof of the monastery and displayed for all to see. It is considered an incredibly auspicious event and is believed to bring blessings and good fortune to those who witness it.

Some FAQs about Visiting a Tibetan Monastery 

1. How many Tibetan monasteries are there in Tibet?
There are about 1,700 Tibetan Monasteries and temples throughout Tibet, ranging in size from small, remote hermitages to large complexes that house thousands of monks. 

2. What can tourists expect to see at a Tibetan monastery?
Tourists can expect to see a range of unique Tibetan style, ancient and religious buildings and structures, including the sacred shrines, solemn meditation halls, and peaceful courtyards. You may also have the opportunity to see monks and nuns in prayer or study, but please do not try to join and interrupt them.

3. Can foreign tourists visit Tibetan monasteries while traveling in Tibet?
Yes, many Tibet Monasteries and temples are open to tourists, although some restrictions may apply. Visitors are expected to show respect for the monks and nuns who live there, and to follow certain rules and guidelines when visiting.

4. Is it possible for foreigners to stay at a Tibetan monastery in Tibet?
No, foreigners are not allowed to stay at a Tibetan monastery in Tibet according to the policy. 

Tips for visiting a Tibetan Monastery 

1. Dress appropriately: As Tibetan monasteries are places of religious significance, it's important to dress modestly and respectfully. Avoid wearing shorts, sleeveless tops, or anything that exposes too much skin. It's best to wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes that cover your shoulders and knees.

2. Remove your hat: When you enter a Tibetan monastery, you'll be required to remove your hat, sunglasses, and abstain from smoking or chewing gum. You may see monks leave their shoes outside the hall of the monastery or temple, but it’s not necessary for tourists to take off their shoes to come inside.

3. Be respectful: Tibetan monasteries are places of worship, so it's important to be respectful of the monks and other visitors. Keep your voice down, avoid using your phone or taking photos inside the temple, and always ask for permission before taking a photo of a monk or a sacred object.

4. Follow the rules: Most monasteries have their own set of rules and regulations, such as not touching certain objects, not entering certain areas. Make sure you familiarize yourself with these rules and follow them to show respect for the religion and culture.

5. Leave a donation: Tibetan monasteries are often in need of financial support to maintain their buildings and support their monks. Consider leaving a donation, no matter how small, to support the monastery and show your appreciation for the experience.

6. Learn about the culture: Visiting a Tibetan monastery can be a great opportunity to learn about the culture and history of Tibet. Take some time to read about the religion, customs, and traditions of Tibet before you visit, so you can fully appreciate the significance of what you're seeing.


Conclusion: 
Monasteries and temples play some of the most important roles of Tibetan Buddhism. They are often the site of religious rituals, ceremonies, and festivals. The monks who live in the monasteries are highly respected by Tibetan people, and they are known for their deep spiritual knowledge and wisdom. The monasteries are a significant part of Tibetan society, and they continue to attract visitors from around the world who come to experience their unique beauty, peace and tranquility.

A Tibet tour is not complete without visiting Tibetan monasteries and temples. If you are planning a trip to Tibet, please feel free to contact us, we can help to organize a perfect one for you.