Drepung Monastery — Attraction in Lhasa

Drepung Monastery, located near Lhasa, Tibet’s capital, is one of the largest and most important Buddhist monasteries in the region. Founded in 1416 by Jamyang Choge, a disciple of Tsongkhapa (the founder of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism), Drepung quickly became an influential center of learning and spirituality. At its peak, the monastery housed over 10,000 monks and played a significant role in Tibetan religious and political life. Tibet, often referred to as the "Roof of the World," is a high-altitude region in Central Asia, known for its towering mountains, unique culture, and religious significance. The term "Roof of the World" reflects Tibet's vast Tibetan Plateau, which sits at an average elevation of 4,500 meters (14,800 feet) above sea level. Among Tibet's cultural and religious landmarks, Drepung Monastery holds a special place.

The monastery is situated on the Gambo Utse Mountain, offering breathtaking views of Lhasa and the surrounding area. Its name, "Drepung," means "the gathering of rice" in Tibetan, symbolizing the large number of monks living and studying there. The monastery is known for its extensive collection of Buddhist scriptures, artwork, and relics, making it a key site for pilgrims and tourists alike.

Drepung is closely associated with the Dalai Lama lineage. Before the Dalai Lama's exile to India in the 1950s, the monastery was home to the Ganden Tripa, the spiritual leader of the Gelug school, and was an important center for training future leaders of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery was also a political center, as it hosted important figures in Tibet's religious and political hierarchy.

Tibet's title as the "Roof of the World" comes from its geographic position and altitude. The Tibetan Plateau is the highest and largest plateau on Earth, often reaching over 4,500 meters (14,800 feet) above sea level. The region is surrounded by some of the world’s highest mountains, including the Himalayas to the south and the Kunlun Mountains to the north, which contribute to its cold climate and snowy landscapes.

Tibet is also home to the highest peak in the world, Mount Everest, which marks the region’s natural boundary with Nepal. The combination of its high altitude, extreme climate, and vast, rugged landscapes gives Tibet its distinct and awe-inspiring identity as the "Roof of the World."

This title reflects not only Tibet’s physical elevation but also its cultural and spiritual significance. Tibet is considered a sacred land for Tibetan Buddhism, with numerous monasteries, sacred lakes, and mountains seen as spiritually important. The region’s isolation, difficult terrain, and spiritual heritage make it a place of profound significance for both the local population and pilgrims from around the world.

Drepung Monastery embodies the essence of Tibet as the "Roof of the World." It is not only an architectural and cultural marvel but also a center of spiritual life. The monastery has been a place of study, meditation, and prayer for centuries, deeply intertwined with the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. Its teachings, rituals, and monastic life have played a central role in shaping the religious landscape of Tibet.

Tibet’s natural beauty, combined with its spiritual significance, makes Drepung Monastery an important pilgrimage destination. Visitors who journey to Tibet often visit the monastery to experience the tranquility and sacred atmosphere of the site, as well as to learn more about Tibetan Buddhism. With the backdrop of the "Roof of the World," Drepung serves as a testament to the profound spirituality and resilience of the Tibetan people.

In summary, Drepung Monastery stands as a cornerstone of Tibetan Buddhism, encapsulating the spiritual and cultural essence of Tibet, which is known worldwide as the "Roof of the World" due to its majestic mountains, high-altitude landscapes, and spiritual...

Zhebeng Temple, nestled in the historic city of Lhasa, Tibet, is a sacred site of profound cultural significance, showcasing the region's rich spiritual heritage. As one of the oldest and most revered temples in Lhasa, Zhebeng Temple dates back to the 7th century, when it was built during the reign of King Songtsen Gampo, the founder of the Tibetan Empire. This ancient temple is revered for its stunning murals, intricate carvings, and historic artifacts, offering a glimpse into Tibet's fascinating history and the evolution of Tibetan Buddhism. As a revered pilgrimage site, Zhebeng Temple continues to attract devotees and travelers from around the world, seeking to experience the temple's serene atmosphere and profound cultural...

If you are visiting Lhasa (or western Tibet) and especially if you are interested in Tibetan Buddhism, culture, architecture or history—in my opinion yes, Drepung Monastery is very much worth including. It stands out among Tibetan monasteries for its scale, legacy and living culture. However, if your travel style is more “speed through” sightseeing, or you have limited time and many other stops, then you might treat this as a strong “nice to have” rather than must see. If I had to pick one takeaway: go with sufficient time (say 2–3 hours) and a calm mindset, and you’ll leave with a...