Drepung Monastery

On the slope of the Wuze Hill in Genbei five kilometers northwest of Lhasa, the Drepung Monastery, the largest of the monasteries of the Gelug Sect, was built in 1416. Covering an area of 250,000 square meters, Drepung Monastery is actually a collection of Buddhist chapels and colleges. In its heyday, in this largest temple of Lamaism had a amazing amount of more than 10,000 monks.

Inside the magnificent temple, decorations are marvelous and shinning. There are 103 giant stand columns with exquisite carvings on, lots of precious elegant streamers, beautiful Tangkars (a kind of scroll painting with Buddha portrait on), lifelike Buddha statues and colorful frescos on the wall as well as precious Buddhist classics for you expedition.

The word Drepung can be literally translated as "rice pile", a name whose meaning becomes clear when you see the white-walled buildings scattered along the hill. Originally founded in 1416, the monastery in its heyday was home to 10,000 monks (around 1600). The monastery has trained a large group of talents for Tibetan Buddhism. The Fifth Dalai Lama lived here before he moved to the Potala Palace. It houses plenty of historical and cultural relics and Buddhist classics. In the exciting Shoton Festival, "Sunning the Buddha" by the monastery has been one of the most magnificent religious activities in Tibet.

Opening Hours: 9:00 -- 12:00 break 14:00 -- 16:00

Ticket Price: 50 CNY

Location: West Beijign Road, Lhasa

Transportation:
You (from South Sangge Road) can come here by bus No. 5 (3 CNY) or take the taxi (20 CNY)