Nalendra Monastery, Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Penyul region, China
Nalendra Monastery stands north of Lhasa and features an assembly hall with detailed wall paintings and architectural elements in traditional Tibetan design. The buildings display carved and painted surfaces that reflect the skilled craftsmanship characteristic of the region.
The monastery was founded in 1436 by Rongton Sheja Kunrik and grew into a major center of Buddhist learning. Over time it expanded with several colleges and housed a substantial monastic community.
The monastery preserves Sakya school traditions, with monks engaged in text study and tantric teachings that shape the daily rhythm and use of the buildings. These practices remain visible in how spaces are organized and used by the community.
The site lies in the mountains north of Lhasa and is set within the landscape, with several meditation centers scattered in the surrounding highlands. Visitors should prepare for mountainous terrain and high altitude conditions, with warm clothing especially important outside the warmer months.
The site is known as a center for advanced meditation practices focused on specific techniques within the Vajrayogini tradition. This practice draws those seeking intensive spiritual training periods in the remote meditation centers scattered across the grounds.
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