Sakya Monastery

Introducing Sakya Monastery

Sakya Monastery, located on Benbo Mountain in Sakya County, Tibet Autonomous Region, is the main monastery of the Sakya school of Tibetan Buddhism. Construction began in 1073 by the Sakya school's founder, Kungon Chogyal. It is divided into two monasteries, north and south, separated by the Zhongqu River. The north monastery, located on the north bank in front of Benbo Mountain, suffered extensive damage during the Cultural Revolution. The Sakya Monastery we see today is the south monastery.

Sakya Monastery boasts not only magnificent and exquisite architecture, but also a vast collection of treasures and cultural relics. Its extensive collection includes a significant number of books inherited from the Yuan Dynasty, many of which are unique and rare. The Yuan Dynasty murals are particularly distinctive, earning it the nickname "the second Dunhuang."

Climate and best time to travel

Sakya Monastery hosts numerous religious ceremonies annually, the largest and most unique of which are the summer and winter Vajra Dance ceremonies. The summer ceremony takes place in the seventh month of the Tibetan calendar, while the winter ceremony begins on the 19th day of the eleventh month. During these ceremonies, monks and laypeople from all over the area gather at the monastery to pray for happiness and good fortune, creating a grand spectacle.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-3 hours

Tickets

50 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

9:00-18:30

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Most Popular FAQs for Sakya Monastery

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

Sakya Monastery, founded in 1073, is the principal monastery of the Sakya sect of Tibetan Buddhism. It is historically significant for its unique architecture, vast collection of religious texts, and its role in Tibetan political and religious history.

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

Located in Sakya County, Shigatse Prefecture, Tibet. The monastery is accessible by car or taxi from Shigatse city. Walking is possible within the monastery grounds. There are no metro or regular public bus services directly to the site.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Open year-round, typically from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. The best time to visit is from May to October for clear skies and moderate weather.

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

Entrance fee is approximately 50–80 CNY, usually purchased on-site. Online booking is generally not available.

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

Booking in advance is usually not required. For guided tours, it is recommended to arrange 1–2 days ahead.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–3 hours to explore the main monastery complex, temples, and surrounding grounds. Additional time may be needed for learning about the monastery’s history and art.

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

• Main assembly hall and temples
• Ancient murals and frescoes
• Statues of Buddha and Sakya lineage masters
• Library of religious texts
• Monastic living quarters and courtyards

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

Guided tours are available through local travel agencies, usually in Mandarin and sometimes in English. Audio guides are typically not provided.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Panoramic views from the monastery courtyards overlooking the valley
• Main temple halls with their intricate architecture
• Mural walls and statues
• Monastery entrance and surrounding mountainous backdrop

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main entrance → Visit the assembly hall → Explore individual temples and mural halls → Walk through courtyards → Visit the library and artifacts → Conclude with panoramic viewpoints outside the main complex.

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

Night visits and light shows are not available. Special tours may be arranged during major Tibetan Buddhist festivals.

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

Less crowded than major Tibetan monasteries. Weekdays and mornings are the quietest times to visit.

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

Basic facilities like toilets and rest areas are available. Limited food stalls or shops are near the entrance; larger amenities are in nearby towns.

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

Accessible for children and elderly with some caution due to steps and uneven surfaces. Limited accessibility for wheelchair users.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is recommended for entrance fees and small purchases. Cards or mobile payments may not be widely accepted.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Small Tibetan-style eateries and guesthouse restaurants are available nearby. Larger restaurants are in Sakya town.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are often available; vegan and halal options are limited but may be found in some guesthouses.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Guesthouses, mid-range hotels, and homestays in Sakya town are closest. Some monasteries may offer basic accommodation for pilgrims.

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

• Nearby Tibetan villages
• Other monasteries in Shigatse Prefecture
• Scenic valleys and rivers in the region

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops are mainly in Sakya town. Common items include Tibetan handicrafts, prayer flags, religious statues, and yak wool products.

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

• Private car or taxi to Shigatse city or Lhasa
• Local buses to nearby monasteries or valleys
• Organized tours for multi-site day trips