Drigung Monastery, Buddhist monastery in Maizhokunggar County, Tibet, China
Drigung Monastery stands on a mountain ridge at approximately 4,465 meters elevation, with temples and prayer halls serving its spiritual community. Around 250 resident monks use these structures for daily religious practice.
The monastery was founded in 1179 by Jigten Sumgön and suffered destruction in 1290 from conflicts with rival sects. Reconstruction followed those damages, allowing the place to survive to the present day.
The monastery belongs to the Drigung Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism, whose practitioners focus deeply on meditation. The daily rhythm of the monks shapes how the place is used and experienced by visitors.
The monastery is accessible by shuttle bus from Lhasa's eastern station, with the journey taking approximately three and a half hours. Visitors should prepare for the high altitude and bring warm clothing.
The monastery includes a sky burial site at high altitude where traditional Tibetan death ceremonies take place. Sacred vultures gather for these morning rituals, which remain central to local spiritual practices.
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