Kirti Gompa, Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Ngawa, China
Kirti Gompa is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery located at 3,200 meters elevation on the Tibetan plateau. The main Assembly Hall is supported by 120 pillars and contains an 8-meter Maitreya statue, with multiple chapels spread throughout the complex dedicated to different Buddhist traditions.
Founded in 1472 by Rongpa Chenakpa, a student of Tsongkhapa, this monastery grew from a small branch into one of the major centers of Tibetan Buddhism in the region. This establishment was part of a broader movement to spread the Gelug school of Buddhism across the plateau.
The monastery houses several colleges for Buddhist learning, and visitors can explore chapels dedicated to different Buddhist deities and sacred teachings. These spaces reflect how monks study and practice their faith within these walls.
Visitors should be prepared for the high altitude and cold thin air, especially during winter months when conditions can be challenging. It is advisable to check current access conditions before visiting, as entry may sometimes be restricted.
The north wall of the complex features a large statue of Shakyamuni Buddha visible from a distance. This notable figure often goes unnoticed by casual visitors but serves as a landmark for the site.
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