Donggar Monastery

Introducing Dongkar Temple

Donggar Monastery, named after Donggar Mountain, is the largest and most influential Gelugpa monastery in East Asia, and is also a monastery of great significance in the modern history of Tibet.

The temple houses a late Qing Dynasty thangka painting depicting Buddha sunbathing, and its murals and sculptures are of unique value for appreciation and research. On July 16, 1951, Zhang Jingwu, a representative of the Central People's Government, arrived in Yadong via India and met with the 14th Dalai Lama. He presented Chairman Mao Zedong's handwritten letter to the Dalai Lama and a copy of the Seventeen-Point Agreement, while also promoting the Party's policies. A "memorial stele" commemorating the meeting still stands in front of the temple, a monument of profound historical significance.

Climate and best time to travel

Yadong County has an alpine and arid climate, with an average annual temperature of 0°C, average temperatures in January and July of -9°C and 8°C, respectively. The growing season lasts approximately 150 days, with an average annual precipitation of 410 mm. The southern region, with an altitude of 2,000 to 3,400 meters, has a subtropical, semi-humid monsoon climate characterized by a mild and humid climate. The average annual temperature is 7.7°C, with average temperatures in January and July of 0.2°C and 14.4°C, respectively. The growing season lasts 210 days, with an average annual precipitation of 873 mm.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Dharma instruments: a golden butter lamp, dozens of silver water bowls and several pairs of silver cuckoos.

Gilded copper vases, jade towers, etc.

Buddhist scriptures: There are three volumes of Kangyur, two volumes of Tengyur, and one volume of the Hundred Thousand Verses; there are also complete works of Atisha, Dromtönpa, Orbe Bodhisattva, Tsongkhapa and other masters, as well as the major and minor five sciences of the Sakya, Gelug, Kagyu, Nyingma and other sects.

Bronze Statue of Sakyamuni Buddha: Total height: 60 cm, of which 47 cm is the statue itself and 13 cm is the lotus pedestal. The statue features a spiral bun, plump cheeks, a white hair on the forehead, slender eyebrows, slightly open eyes, a straight nose with a deep nasal groove, slightly closed lips, long ears and heavy shoulders, and three silkworm-shaped patterns on the neck. The statue wears a thin, transparent right-side-exposed robe in the style of Indian sculptures. The left hand, palm facing upward, rests flat on the knee, while the right hand rests on the knee. The statue sits cross-legged on an upturned lotus pedestal.

Bronze bell: 15 cm tall, 8 cm in diameter. Unearthed from the stupa of Ngawang Gesang Baisangbu Living Buddha. The bell handle features four silver-carved dragon heads, each with a long tongue woven into flower petals. The handle is flanked by crowned bodhisattvas with their hands clasped together. The bell body is decorated with three patterns: lotus petals on top, a lion-head garland in the middle, and a vajra at the bottom.

Ming Dynasty bronze cymbals: These are of ordinary design, somewhat resembling a straw hat, with a small hole in the center for stringing. The cymbals have an outer diameter of 50 cm and an inner diameter of 25 cm. One side of the dome is inscribed with a pair of dragons playing with a pearl, while the other side is inscribed with the six characters "Made in the Xuande Period of the Great Ming" in double-hook regular script.

The thangka of Buddha Sunbathing is 10 meters long and 8 meters wide. It depicts a seated Buddha in lotus position in the middle and is a fine piece from the late Qing Dynasty.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Donggar Monastery

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Donggar Monastery, located in Tibet's Shigatse region, holds great religious and cultural significance in Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery has long been a spiritual center, offering a peaceful retreat for meditation and prayer. Its architecture and sacred relics are important for understanding Tibetan Buddhist practices and history.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Donggar Monastery is located in Shigatse, Tibet, approximately 50 km southwest of the city. To reach the monastery, you can take a taxi or hire a private car from Shigatse. The journey takes about 1-1.5 hours. Public transportation options are limited, so private transport is recommended.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The monastery is open year-round, typically from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is from April to October, when the weather is milder, and the landscape is more accessible. Winter months can be harsh and cold, limiting the time spent outdoors.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee for Donggar Monastery is approximately 30-50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased directly at the monastery. It is not common to buy tickets online, so it's best to pay on-site when you arrive.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary, but it is recommended to check with local tour operators if visiting during peak tourist seasons (summer months). Booking 1-2 weeks in advance may be helpful for group tours or special visits.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Donggar Monastery, including visiting the temple and walking around the monastery grounds, allow 1-2 hours. If you wish to participate in any meditation or prayer sessions, you may need additional time.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The main temple, where prayer ceremonies are held and religious artifacts are displayed.
• The monastic quarters, which offer insight into the daily life of the monks.
• The murals and sculptures inside the temple, which depict important religious events and figures in Tibetan Buddhism.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available at the monastery, typically in Tibetan or Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be available with advanced booking, especially for group tours. Audio guides are not commonly provided.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The view of the monastery from the nearby hills offers a great panoramic shot.
• Inside the temple, the intricate murals and religious statues provide excellent photographic opportunities.
• The surrounding mountain backdrop adds to the beauty of the monastery, especially during sunrise or sunset.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the main prayer hall to witness local religious ceremonies. Afterward, explore the monastery grounds, including the monks' quarters and the surrounding areas. If you have time, consider talking to the monks or participating in a meditation session.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are not typically available at Donggar Monastery. However, the peaceful environment makes it an excellent location for a quiet evening reflection, and the stars above the monastery can be stunning at night.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The monastery can be relatively quiet during weekdays and in the early morning. Weekends and holidays tend to see more visitors, so if you want a more peaceful experience, it's best to visit during weekdays or in the off-season (from November to March).

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Basic facilities, including toilets, are available at the entrance of the monastery.
• There are small local shops and food stalls outside the monastery offering snacks and drinks.
• Rest areas are available for visitors to relax while exploring the grounds.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The monastery has uneven terrain, with some areas requiring uphill walking, making it difficult for elderly or disabled visitors. It may be challenging for children to navigate the monastery grounds comfortably. However, the main temple and some parts of the monastery are more accessible.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is generally preferred at Donggar Monastery. Mobile payments (like WeChat Pay and Alipay) are not commonly accepted, so it's advisable to carry cash for purchases or donations.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several simple Tibetan restaurants near the monastery, serving traditional dishes like momos, thukpa (noodle soup), and yak butter tea. More dining options can be found in the town of Shigatse, about an hour's drive away.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan food options are available, as Tibetan cuisine often includes vegetable-based dishes like stir-fries and soups. Halal options may be limited but some restaurants in the region can accommodate dietary restrictions.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a few basic guesthouses and small hotels near the monastery. For more comfortable accommodations, you may need to stay in Shigatse, which has a wider range of hotels and lodges.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Shigatse, where you can visit the Tashilhunpo Monastery and the Shigatse Dzong.
• The Sakya Monastery, which is another significant Tibetan Buddhist site, located about 30-40 km from Donggar Monastery.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are small souvenir shops near the monastery selling Tibetan jewelry, prayer beads, traditional handicrafts, and religious artifacts such as statues and prayer wheels.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Donggar Monastery, you can continue your journey by taxi or private car to nearby attractions like Shigatse or Sakya. Public transportation options are limited, so private transport is the best option for further travel.