Drepung Monastery, Buddhist monastery at western outskirts, Lhasa, China
Whitewashed buildings rise along the mountain slopes at 3,600 meters elevation, forming a large Buddhist complex visible from across the Lhasa Valley.
In 1416, Buddhist master Jamyang Choje established this monastery, which later became the main educational center of the Gelug school, housing up to 10,000 monks.
Four colleges within the monastery maintain the tradition of philosophical debates, scriptural studies, and the preservation of Tibetan Buddhist teachings.
The monastery opens daily for visitors, requiring a gradual ascent up the mountain path, with opportunities to observe morning prayer sessions.
The monastery follows strict schedules for religious ceremonies, including the annual Shoton Festival when monks display a giant thangka on the mountainside.
Location: Lhasa District
Inception: 1416
Founders: Jamyang Choje Tashi Pelden
GPS coordinates: 29.67671,91.04699
Latest update: May 27, 2025 13:19
Buddhist monasteries in the Himalayan mountain ranges display religious and architectural traditions dating from the 11th century. The buildings house art collections, sacred texts, and cultural artifacts. Many monasteries function as religious schools and preserve Tibetan Buddhist teachings.
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