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Drepung Monastery is located in a valley on the southern slope of Genpei Utse Mountain, about ten kilometers west of Lhasa. It is a Gelugpa monastery of Tibetan Buddhism and is known as one of the three major monasteries in Lhasa, along with Ganden Monastery and Sera Monastery.
The monastery is massive, with rows of white buildings stretching across the hillside. From a distance, it resembles a giant pile of rice, hence the name Drepung. Drepung, meaning "a mountain of snow-white rice" in Tibetan, symbolizes prosperity. Its full Tibetan name means "Auspicious Rice-accumulating Continent of Ten Directions," and it is the highest-ranking monastery in the Gelugpa sect.
Drepung Monastery is surrounded by mountains on three sides. To the south is a gently sloping land covered with trees and shrubs. In front of it is the Lhasa River and the open valley. The entire monastery is built step by step according to the mountain terrain, with Buddhist temples, scripture halls, and monks' quarters. The buildings stand tall, with staggered levels and a grand scale.
The Shoton Festival in Tibet is held from mid-June to July of the Tibetan calendar. During that period, a giant thangka of Buddha will be hung in Drepung Monastery, and the crowds of people on the hillside are also a spectacle, gathering here from all directions.
Recommended play time: 2-4 hours
50 yuan/person
9:00-16:00
Drepung Monastery, founded in 1416, was once the largest monastery in the world and a major center of Gelugpa Buddhism. It played a key role in Tibetan religious education and is historically significant for its spiritual and cultural heritage.
Located approximately 5 km northwest of central Lhasa. Visitors can reach it by taxi, local bus, or private tour. Walking is required within the monastery complex to access its halls and courtyards.
Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best months to visit are May to October when the weather is mild and skies are clear.
The entrance fee is approximately 50–80 RMB per adult. Tickets are available at the entrance or through local travel agencies. Online booking may be possible via certain Lhasa tourism websites.
Advance booking is recommended during peak season or Tibetan festivals, usually a few days ahead, to secure entry and guided services.
Plan for 2–3 hours to fully explore the main halls, courtyards, and attend a monk debate. Longer visits are suitable for photography and cultural study.
Guided tours are available in English, Chinese, and sometimes other languages through local tour operators. Audio guides are less common but may be arranged in advance.
Enter through the main gate, visit the assembly halls, walk to chapels and murals, observe a monk debate in the courtyard, then explore inner courtyards and exit via the side gate for photography opportunities.
Night visits and light shows are not offered. Special private tours can sometimes be arranged during festivals or via travel agencies.
The monastery is busiest during weekends, holidays, and Tibetan festivals. Weekday mornings are generally less crowded for a more peaceful visit.
Basic facilities include restrooms near the entrance, small food stalls and cafes nearby, water fountains, and souvenir shops. Visitors are advised to carry water for convenience.
Accessibility is limited due to stairs and uneven terrain. Elderly, children, or visitors with mobility issues should take precautions and may need assistance.
Cash is recommended. Some nearby shops accept mobile payments like Alipay or WeChat Pay, but card acceptance is limited.
Vegetarian Tibetan dishes are commonly available. Vegan and halal options are limited and should be confirmed in advance.
Yes, common souvenirs include prayer flags, thangka paintings, Tibetan jewelry, handicrafts, and traditional clothing.
