Tibet Buddhist Pilgrimage

Tibet, overlooking the north of Himalayas is the highest region on earth. It is situated at an elevation of 4, 900 meters and sometime called as the roof of the world. Besides the scenic beauty of the country, it is greatly known as the home to magnificent gomaps (monasteries), which dates back to 7th century. The place offers spiritual feeling to pilgrims, visiting here from different parts of the world.

Buddhist monasteries in Tibet plays a significant role in the life and culture of inhabitants like Han Chinese, Monpas, Lhobas and Tibetan groups. More than 65 monasteries follow the remarkable rules of Buddhism. Some famous Monasteries are:

Ganden Monastery

Known as the paradise for future Buddha, Ganden Monastery is situated in the Tagtse County, situated 47 kilometers from Lhasa City. The Holy Stupa Hall is the main attraction here. An ideal time to visit enjoy religious aura in and around the monastery is during Buddha Painting Unfolding Festival, organized annually by the Buddhist monks.

Johang Temple

Jokhang monastery sits on the Barkhor Square in Lhasa. Recently, in the year 2000, the pious location has been enlisted in the catalog of World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The interior of the temple is occupied with a four storey timber, which highlights the ultimate fusion of Tang, Tibetan and Nepalese architectural style. The Great Prayer Festival, organized here, according to the Tibetan Calendar attracts Buddhist from all across the world.

Drepung Monastery

This popular monastery is situated at the foot of Gambo Utse mountain in Lhasa City. It was constructed in 1416 by Jamyang Qoigyi. The religious site covers an area of 250, 000 sq. meters and consist of important buildings like Ganden Potrang, Coquen Hall and Kamcuns. Devotees widely visit during the Shoton Festival and feast their eyes with the exclusive glimpse of the 20 m wide and 30 m long thangka of the Sakyamuni Buddha.

Sera Monastery

This sparkling monastery stands at the fool hill of Tatipu and covers an area of 110, 000 sq. meters. It was established in 1419 during the Ming Dynasty for the sole purpose of preserving Buddhist treasures, received from Emperor Chengzhu. Coqen Hall, three Zhacangs and twenty Khangtsens(monk dormitores are major attractions of the monastery. Countless monks visit here during the Sera Bengqin Festival, held according to the Tibetan Calendar.

Other monasteries of note are Tashilunpo Monastery, Potala Palace, Palkhor Monastery, Namgyal Monastery, Shalu Monastery, Tso Monastery, Tingri Monastery, Trathang Monastery, Kumbum Monastery etc.

Pilgrimages in Asia
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