Discover Tashilhunpo Monastery: Tibet's Largest Monastery in Shigatse

Location and Overview

Tashilhunpo Monastery is located on a hillside at the foot of Nyiseri Mountain. The Monastery's name, Tashilhungpo, translates to "heap of fortune and happiness." Historically, it served as the residence for 4,000 monks. The largest Monastery in Tibet covers an area of 70,000 square meters. It is located in Shigatse, the second-largest city in Tibet. The Monastery features the largest stupa in the world, a 26-meter tall statue of Maitreya Buddha, representing the future Buddha. Constructed in 1914. Gendun Drub, the first Dalai Lama, established the Monastery in 1447. Tashilhunpo Monastery served as a significant centre for advancing Buddhist learning and practices.

The Panchen Lama's Legacy

The Monastery served as the historical seat of the Panchen Lama. The Panchen Lama is affiliated with the Geluk sect of Buddhism. The fifth Dalai Lama appointed it as the seat of the Panchen Lama. The Monastery serves as the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama. The Panchen Lama is the foremost Buddhist teacher within the Geluk sect. The relationship between the Dalai Lama and the Panchen Lama is unique. Throughout their lifetime, each Lama is dedicated to identifying the reincarnation of others while also fulfilling the roles of both disciple and, later, guru to those individuals.

The Gorkha Attack of 1791

In 1791, the Gorkha Kingdom attacked Tashilhunpo during their military campaign against Tibet, successfully seizing Shigatse. A collaborative military effort between Tibetan and Chinese forces successfully pushed them back to the outskirts of Kathmandu, where they were obliged to agree to a forthcoming peace treaty, pay tribute every five years, and return the items they had plundered from Tashi Lhunpo.

Architectural Highlights

Tashilhunpo Monastery’s unique design and historic places include the Chapel of Jampa, Coqen Hall, the four Great Dratsangs, 56 Sutra Halls, and 64 Kamcuns. People can walk along the beautiful kora around Tashilhunpo with dedicated visitors and enjoy stunning views of the Monastery, Shigatse City and the faraway Shigatse Dzong, known as the small Potala Palace.

Sacred Monuments and Activities

Along with the impressive chortens that hold the bodies of respected Tibetan lamas, the Monastery also includes tombs of the fourth and tenth Panchen Lama. Seeing the Tashilhunpo Buddhist discussion and text chanting is also a good way to learn about Tibetan Buddhism and how monks live in that area.

Cultural Importance

Tashilhunpo Monastery represents a significant aspect of Tibetan culture, providing a deep connection to the spiritual heritage of the region. Visiting this remarkable Monastery offers an unforgettable journey into Tibetan Buddhism’s essence, appealing to dedicated pilgrims and curious travellers alike.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit the Monastery is between April and October; during this time, the weather will be pleasant. The Monastery remains accessible throughout the year; however, the summer presents the most favourable conditions for exploring the complex and participating in the Thangka Festival.