Tengboche Monastery

Tengboche Monastery is a gompa in Khumbu Pasanglhamu, Nepal, situated at 3,867 meters on a hilltop where the Dudh Koshi and Imja Khola rivers converge. The structure provides direct views toward Mount Ama Dablam and is surrounded by rhododendron forests.

Lama Gulu founded this site in 1916 as a religious center for the region. Natural events such as an earthquake in 1934 and a fire in 1989 led to complete reconstructions of the complex.

The monastery carries the Tibetan name for this hilltop location and serves Sherpa communities as a center for religious practice and ceremonies. During the Mani Rimdu Festival in the tenth lunar month, monks perform ritual dances that draw visitors from surrounding villages.

The route leads from Namche Bazaar via mountain trails to this location, taking several hours of walking through forests and across suspension bridges. The elevation requires slow movement and time for adjustment for travelers arriving from lower altitudes.

The large prayer hall, called Dokhang, houses representations of Shakyamuni Buddha and regional Buddhist deities that fill the walls. Around 60 monks reside here permanently and hold daily prayers.