Lhasa – Monasteries

I spent a peaceful couple of days exploring Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery in Lhasa, and the equally impressive Ganden Monastery about a two-hours drive outside of Lhasa. The three monasteries are of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism and make up the three principal university monasteries in Tibet. For more information on Buddhism see Kathmandu to Lhasa – Day 4.

Drepung Monastery

Drepung is about a thirty minute drive from the city centre. Founded in 1416, it is the largest monastery in Tibet. Fortunately, it managed to escape the Cultural Revolution with relatively little damage, unlike many other monasteries in Tibet. Exploring Drepung feels like wandering through a medieval Himalayan town – a very peaceful morning.

Sera Monastery

A great afternoon’s entertainment is watching the debating at Sera Monastery. Even if you can’t understand Tibetan, it is obvious that the debating is all done in good humour with a lot of laughter on all sides. The final strike of a point of discussion is sent home to the opponent with a downward and pointed clap. It was good to see a lighter side of Tibet.

Ganden Monastery

I shared a taxi to Ganden Monastery which included a couple of hours to wander about. At the time, it was one of the few places outside of Lhasa that didn’t require a separate permit to visit.

Ganden creates a spectacular sight. The approach reveals a hidden mountain village with its amazing golden-roofed Assembly Hall. It’s far enough away from the hustle and bustle of the ever growing city of Lhasa to enjoy the air and the peace of the countryside.