Ganden Monastery

Introducing Ganden Monastery

Ganden Monastery, located at an altitude of 3,800 meters on Wangpori Mountain on the south bank of the Lhasa River in Dagze County, Lhasa, is one of the three major monasteries in Lhasa. Ganden is a transliteration of the Tibetan word for "Tushita Heaven."

Ganden Monastery, the first of the six major monasteries of the Gelugpa sect, was personally planned and built by Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelugpa sect. It is the ancestral temple of the Gelugpa sect. Occupying almost the entire hillside, it is quite a sight. The monastery boasts exquisite murals and sculptures, and a wealth of preserved cultural relics.

In addition to Qianlong's armor, there are also many exquisitely made silk thangkas, many of which are Jiangsu embroidery from the early Ming Dynasty. These were brought back to Lhasa from the interior to present to Ganden Monastery by Tsongkhapa's disciple "Sakya Yeshe" after he was conferred the title in Nanjing.

Climate and best time to travel

During the Shoton Festival in Lhasa every August, Ganden Monastery also hosts a grand Buddha-drenching ceremony. While not as grand and elaborate as Drepung Monastery, it's equally grand. Furthermore, October 25th of the Tibetan calendar marks the anniversary of Lama Tsongkhapa's death. During the day, a massive 26-meter-long and 10-meter-wide Buddha statue is hung throughout the monastery, and at night, lamps are lit throughout the monastery as a sign of respect. The ceremony is quite grand.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Since Ganden Monastery is quite far away, the recommended duration of the visit is 1 day.

Tickets

40 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

9:00-16:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Ganden Monastery

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

Ganden Monastery, founded in 1409 by Je Tsongkhapa, is one of the “great three” Gelug university monasteries in Tibet. It is a major spiritual center for Tibetan Buddhism and played a key role in religious education, ritual, and culture.

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

Located about 40 km east of Lhasa on Wangbur Mountain. Accessible by taxi or tour vehicles from Lhasa; trekking routes are available for more adventurous visitors.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Typically open from 8:00 to 17:00.
• Best visiting months are May to October for favorable weather and clear views.

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

Entrance fee is approximately 60–80 CNY. Tickets are usually purchased offline at the entrance or through local travel agencies.

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

Booking in advance is not strictly necessary but recommended during peak tourist season or for organized tours.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–4 hours depending on interest in photography, walking, and attending rituals.

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

• Main Assembly Hall with statues of Je Tsongkhapa
• Temple of the Buddha Shakyamuni
• Monastic living quarters and courtyards
• Stupas and ceremonial grounds
• Panoramic viewpoints of Lhasa Valley and surrounding mountains

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

Guided tours are available in English, Chinese, and Tibetan. Audio guides are rare, so a local guide is recommended for full context.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• From the monastery entrance looking toward the valley
• Along the main stairways leading to assembly halls
• Courtyard areas with stupas and traditional buildings
• Mountain ridge viewpoints around the monastery

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start at the entrance and visit the main assembly hall.
• Walk the monastery grounds clockwise, observing murals and shrines.
• Pause at the panoramic viewpoints and photograph the scenery.
• Finish at the stupas and prayer halls before exiting.

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

No night visits or light shows are available; visiting is generally limited to daytime hours.

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

• Peak: Summer holidays and Tibetan festivals.
• Least crowded: Weekdays in spring or autumn.

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

Basic facilities including restrooms, small snack stalls, and resting areas. Limited souvenir shops on the approach to the monastery.

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

Somewhat challenging due to mountainous terrain and stairs; not fully wheelchair accessible. Elderly and children should be cautious and may need assistance.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is recommended; mobile payments may be accepted at certain stalls or local agencies.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Small Tibetan tea houses near the monastery entrance
• Snack stalls offering momo, butter tea, and local dishes
• Restaurants in nearby settlements accessible by taxi

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options available; vegan and halal options are limited but can be requested in some restaurants.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Guesthouses in Dagzê County and nearby villages
• Mid-range hotels in Lhasa with tour access to Ganden Monastery
• Limited luxury accommodation; day-trip visits from Lhasa are common

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

• Drepung Monastery
• Sera Monastery
• Lhasa city attractions like Jokhang Temple and Barkhor Street (if returning same day)

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Thangka paintings
• Tibetan prayer flags and wheels
• Monk robes or religious artifacts
• Local handicrafts and small statues

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

• Taxi or private car back to Lhasa
• Tour buses organized by travel agencies
• For trekking enthusiasts, continue on nearby mountain trails