Trip.Best Popular Temples in Lhasa

Sera Monastery, officially known as "Sera Mahayana Monastery," is located at the foot of Sera Utse Mountain in the northern suburbs of Lhasa. It is one of the six principal monasteries of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, and along with Drepung Monastery and Ganden Monastery, is considered one of the three great monasteries of Lhasa. Construction began in the 17th year of the Yongle reign of the Ming Dynasty by Tsongkhapa's disciple Shakya Yeshe and was completed in 1434. The monastery houses the Tsokchen Hall, three large datsangs, and other buildings, housing tens of thousands of Buddha statues and numerous murals. Its unique Buddhist debates make it a vital venue for understanding Tibetan Buddhist culture.

Zaki Temple, a place full of mystery and tranquility. Here you can feel a peaceful force, let people relax involuntarily. The architectural style here is unique, full of historical atmosphere. Whether it is to worship the Buddha here or just to feel the unique atmosphere here, Zaki Temple is a place worth visiting.

After visiting Jokhang Temple, come to Ramoche Temple, which is within walking distance. No reservation is required, just buy tickets at the entrance. The place is smaller than Jokhang Temple, but there are still many places worth appreciating. I love to slowly look at the murals and imagine the stories inside; the architecture is also beautiful. You can worship inside and take photos.

Drepung Monastery is one of the six major monasteries of the Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism. The architectural complex of Drepung Monastery is built on a mountain and is of a grand scale. The buildings of the entire monastery are mainly white and are scattered on the hillside in an orderly manner, like a huge white castle. Drepung Monastery holds many religious ceremonies and festivals every year. The most famous of these is the "Drepung Monastery Buddha Sun Festival". During the Buddha Sun Festival, monks will slowly unfold a huge thangka of the Buddha from the mountain. This thangka is usually colorful, with exquisite patterns and solemn Buddha images. People believe that sunning the Buddha can bring good luck and blessings.