Gonggar Dzong, Buddhist monastery in Gonggar County, Tibet
Gonggar Dzong is a Buddhist monastery located at 4,076 meters elevation near where the Tsangpo and Kyichu Rivers meet, overlooking the surrounding region. The building features three floors with shrines, monk quarters, an assembly hall, and houses Buddhist statues along with wall paintings.
The monastery was founded in 1464 by Dorje Chang Kunga Namgyal and served as the administrative center of Gonggar from the 17th century until 1960. Its governing role ended when administrative functions were moved to another location as the region's importance shifted.
The monastery follows the Zung branch of the Sakya school, blending teachings from different Buddhist traditions into daily practice. Visitors can observe monks performing rituals in the temple halls.
The site sits at high altitude, so visitors should allow time for acclimatization and bring clothing for cold conditions. Access is easier during warmer months when roads and paths are more passable.
A page from the Vajradhatu scripture, blown from the roof during a founder's recitation of sacred texts, determined the exact location of a nearby sister monastery. This unusual occurrence shows how monks in the region viewed natural signs as guidance for spiritually important decisions.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
