Sera Monastery, Buddhist monastery in Lhasa District, China
Sera Monastery sits at the base of Pubuchok mountain north of Lhasa and includes several prayer halls, study courtyards, and living areas for hundreds of monks. The complex spreads across a wide site with whitewashed walls, golden roofs, and narrow lanes running between the different buildings.
A student of the religious teacher Tsongkhapa founded this monastery in the 15th century as a place for philosophical study and monastic training. It grew over centuries into one of the largest teaching institutions of Tibetan Buddhism until political unrest in the 20th century damaged many structures and reduced the number of monks sharply.
The name means "rose fence" in Tibetan, a reference to the wild roses that once covered the hillside where monks first settled. Visitors today walk through courtyards where debate sessions bring together students in burgundy robes who challenge each other loudly.
The complex lies a few kilometers outside the city center and can be reached by local buses or taxis. Visitors should come early in the morning to experience the prayer ceremonies and wear comfortable shoes as the paths inside the complex can be steep and uneven.
The afternoon debate sessions take place in an open courtyard where monks emphasize their arguments with rhythmic hand movements and loud calls. This tradition goes back to centuries-old teaching methods that reinforce logical conclusions through physical gestures.
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