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Surrounded by mountains, the monasteries in the valley, centered around the Buddhist Academy's main scripture hall, are densely packed on the surrounding hillsides. Countless crimson wooden houses stretch as far as the eye can see. These red cabins house over 10,000 monks. People generally refer to this area as Serthar Buddhist Academy.
Serthar Buddhist Institute, whose full name is Larung Gar Five Sciences Buddhist Institute in Serthar County, but mistakenly called the Five Sciences Buddhist Institute (many major monasteries have Five Sciences Buddhist Institutes), is located approximately 20 kilometers southeast of the county seat in Serthar County, Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province. Founded in 1980 by His Holiness Jigme Phuntsok, it rapidly rose from a remote valley in Tibet to become the world's largest Tibetan Buddhist institute. Over 30,000 monks reside and practice here. The institute's strict monastic disciplines ensure distinct quarters for both men and women.
Suitable for all seasons
free
All day
Serthar Buddhist Institute is one of the largest Tibetan Buddhist institutes in the world. Founded in the 1980s by the 12th Gyalwang Drukpa, it is a center for religious education, meditation, and cultural preservation, training thousands of monks and nuns.
It is located in Serthar County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, China. Access is mainly by taxi or private car from nearby towns. Public transport options are limited due to its remote location.
The institute is generally open during daylight hours, roughly 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Spring and autumn are ideal for visiting due to milder weather.
Entrance is typically free, but donations to support the monastery are welcome. Tickets are generally not required.
No advance booking is needed. However, arranging visits through a local tour guide or monastery contact is recommended for a structured experience.
2–4 hours are sufficient for exploring the main areas, attending ceremonies, and walking around the grounds.
Guided tours may be arranged in English, Chinese, or Tibetan through local operators; audio guides are generally not provided.
Begin at the main entrance, proceed to the central temple, explore adjacent halls and classrooms, and finish with a walk around the monastery grounds and courtyards.
Night visits and light shows are not typical. Special tours can be arranged during major Buddhist festivals.
The monastery is usually quiet. Avoid major Tibetan festival dates if you prefer solitude; otherwise, weekdays are least crowded.
Basic facilities include restrooms, small refreshment areas, and limited gift shops selling religious items and souvenirs.
Some areas are accessible for elderly and children, but steep steps and uneven paths limit access for visitors with mobility issues.
Cash is preferred, especially for donations or small purchases. Cards or mobile payments are rarely accepted.
Limited local eateries or small cafes near the monastery serve simple Tibetan and Chinese meals.
Vegetarian meals are commonly available, aligned with Buddhist practices. Vegan options are often available; halal food is limited.
Basic guesthouses and small hotels in Serthar town provide accommodations; options are limited and simple.
Nearby attractions include Tibetan villages, local monasteries, and scenic mountain landscapes.
Yes, small shops sell prayer flags, Buddhist statues, religious books, and handicrafts.
Private car or taxi is the most practical option. Local buses may connect to Serthar town for onward travel.
