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Drepung Monastery History
Drepung Monastery, also known as "Zhebeng Monastery", was built in 1416 during the Ming Dynasty in the fourteenth year of the Yongle reign by Jamyang Qoigy, a disciple of Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug sect. The construction was sponsored by the nobleman Langka Sangbu. Originally named "Bai Deng Zhebang Monastery", it was later shortened to "Zhebang Monastery". In Tibetan, "Bai Deng" means auspicious and solemn, while "Zhebang" means a heap of rice. After its completion, Drepung Monastery quickly developed into the most powerful monastery of the Gelug sect. In 1464, a monastic college was established at Drepung Monastery to teach Buddhist scriptures.
Drepung Monastery Main Architectures
Drepung Monastery is surrounded by mountains on three sides, with a gentle slope to the south. Facing the Lhasa River and the expansive valley, the entire complex is constructed in a layered manner, with temples, halls, and dormitories arranged in a grand and orderly fashion. The buildings are towering and staggered, creating a magnificent and grandiose atmosphere. Each unit of the buildings is composed of three horizontal levels: the courtyard, the hall, and the temple, forming a pattern of gradually increasing height from the gate to the temple, emphasizing the sacred status of the temple. The magnificent and imposing Coqen Hall is one of the most impressive buildings in the monastery, while the Deyang and Amaba Zhacang are characterized by their unique and rustic styles. The Gan Den Po Zhang is also a magnificent and ornate structure, representing the grandeur of Tibetan architecture.
Drepung Monastery is mainly composed of the Coqen Hall, the four major Zhacangs (Loroi Ling, Deyang, Aba, and Guomang), and the Gan Den Po Zhang. The layout is meticulously arranged, and each building unit is a masterpiece of Tibetan Buddhist architecture, showcasing the splendor and magnificence of Tibetan culture.
Coqen Hall - the Main Building of the Complex
Coqen Hall (措钦大殿), also known as the Grand Hall of Dharma, is located at the center of Drepung Monastery. As the primary building in the complex, it boasts an impressive 221 rooms, covering an area of nearly 4,500 square meters, and a 200 square meter stone paved front square. The hall's scripture hall is adorned with intricate decorations, including bright skylight scuttles, beautifully carved beams, and painted rafters. The space is further embellished with prayer flags, gilded bronze Buddha statues, and everlasting oil lamps, creating a serene atmosphere amidst the chaos of the world.
Four Great Colleges - the Tibetan Buddhist Colleges
The architecture of the Zhacangs can be roughly divided into two parts: the large scripture hall where the monks gather and the various temples. Beneath each Zhacang is a Kangcun, which can be thought of as a dormitory, and if the old Tibetan monasteries were considered comprehensive universities, then the Zhacangs would be the departments, the Kangcuns would be the classes, and the Micuns would be the student groups.
Drepung Loseling Dratsang, the largest of Drepung’s colleges
Drepung Gomang Dratsang, the second to Loseling College
Drepung Deyang Dratsang, the smallest college
Drepung Ngagpa Dratsang, the Tantra Institute of Drepung Monastery
Gaden Phodrang - the Former Residence of the Dalai Lamas
During the reign of the 5th Dalai Lama, a strong local government was established, with political affairs being handled at the Ganden Phodrang Palace. As a result, the government came to be known as the "Ganden Phodrang Government". For a time, Ganden Phodrang became the political center of Tibet, but later, the 5th Dalai Lama moved to the Potala Palace to handle political affairs.
Ganden Phodrang is located on the front left side of Drepung Monastery and is a completely independent building unit. The walls surrounding Ganden Phodrang are high and imposing, presenting a castle-like architectural style. The building of Ganden Phodrang is also constructed in a pattern of gradually increasing height, and can be divided into three parts from a plan view. Upon entering the front gate, there is a spacious courtyard. Ascending the 27 stone steps, one enters the main courtyard of the hall, with two-story open galleries and some living quarters on the left, right, and front sides. The main building of Ganden Phodrang, which is three stories high, is located at the back. The second floor was the place where the Dalai Lama handled political and religious affairs, while the third floor was where the Dalai Lama lived.
What to Do & Experience at Drepung Monastery
Drepung Shoton Festival - Witness the grandest Buddha unfolding ceremony in Lhasa
The Drepung Shoton Festival is one of the most significant and lively traditional festivals in Tibet. Also known as the Yogurt Festival or Buddha Displaying Festival, it is a national intangible cultural heritage of China. The festival takes place every August (30th day of the 6th month in the Tibetan calendar) and lasts for one week. It features literature and art performances, sports competitions, business communication, travel, and leisure activities. The Shoton Festival is a grand pageant of Tibet, with Drepung Monastery being the cradle of the celebration.
Drepung Monastery has been the first place for Tibetans to celebrate the Shoton Festival since the 17th century. Every year, this grand occasion attracts a large number of monks, Buddhist followers, pilgrims, and visitors. The festival is a spectacular sight, with the display of huge Thangka, colorful decorations, and joyful celebrations.
Drepung Buddhist Debate - Watch Monks debating in Tibetan Buddhism
Drepung Monastery, like Sera Monastery, boasts a grand debating courtyard where monks engage in rigorous Buddhist semantic and philosophical debates. Although Drepung's debates may not be as renowned as those of Sera, they are still a significant part of the monastery's tradition. The debating courtyard is conveniently located near the Zhacangs and features a series of elevated debating platforms where monks can sit during debates. While all monks are theoretically allowed to participate, only those who possess adequate knowledge of Buddhist teachings can ascend the platforms and achieve victory in the debates held throughout the Zhacangs and the monastery. Such monks will ultimately receive the esteemed "Geshe" degree.
Drepung Monastery schedules periodic debates, which commence at 2:30 pm in the afternoon. While not as well-known as Sera's debates, visitors fortunate enough to witness Drepung's debates can do so at the debating courtyard located within the monastery.
Best Time to Visit Drepung Monastery
April to October is generally considered the best time to visit Drepung Monastery, as the weather is mild and visitors can fully appreciate the monastery and its surroundings without being affected by extreme cold or heavy snow. Additionally, August is a great time to visit Drepung Monastery if you want to attend the famous Shoton Festival, which is held during this month. During this time, visitors can witness the traditional Tibetan cultural performances and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Location & How to Get to Drepung Monastery
Drepung Monastery is located west of Lhasa, about 9km from the city center, making it easily accessible by bus or taxi.
Distance to Potala Palace: about 7 km, about 20 minutes by driving
Distance to Jokhang Temple: about 9 km, 25-30 minutes by walking
Distance to Sera Monastery: about 11 km, about 20-30 minutes by driving
Transfer to Drepung Monastery
Foreign travelers are not allowed to travel alone in Tibet and must be accompanied by a licensed tour guide or travel agency. Asia Odyssey Travel offers private car services with a licensed tour guide to transfer visitors to Drepung Monastery and other scenic spots around Lhasa. If you need any service, feel free to contact us.
Contact Us for More Transfer InfoDrepung Monastery Amazing Surrounding Attractions
Sera Monastery
Sera Monastery is one of the must-visit spots in any Lhasa or Tibet tour. Located in the northern suburb of Lhasa, it is one of the three great Gelug university monasteries in Tibet, along with Drepung Monastery and Ganden Monastery. Its rich history, magnificent architecture, and famous debates among the monks make it a truly unique and fascinating place to explore. The monks at Sera Monastery are particularly renowned for their debates, which are held in the courtyard every afternoon except on Sundays.
Learn more about Sera Monastery >>
Jokhang Temple
Jokhang Temple, located near Barkhor Street, is an awe-inspiring spiritual center in Tibet, with a rich cultural history dating back to the 7th century Tang Dynasty. The 1300-year-old temple is home to a life-size statue of Buddha Jowa Sakyamuni, and its timeless allure continues to draw pilgrims from all over the world who prostrate themselves in deep reverence. Its stunning architecture, which blends the styles of Tibetan, Tang, Nepalese, and Indian cultures, is a testament to its magnificence and cultural significance.
Learn more about Jokhang Temple >>
Useful Tips to Travel in Drepung Monastery
1. Visit in a clockwise: According to the rituals of Tibetan Buddhism, walking around the temple, turning the prayer wheels, and circling the temples should all be done in a clockwise direction.
2. Respect the local beliefs and customs: It is important to respect the local beliefs and customs, and avoid pointing at the Buddha statues with fingers. Upon entering the main hall, visitors should remove their hats and maintain a quiet demeanor. Photography should be done with caution and consent from the subjects, particularly when taking pictures of those who are performing the ritual of circling the temple.
3. No strenuous activities: Drepung Monastery is located at an altitude of approximately 3800 meters, so visitors should avoid strenuous activities to prevent altitude sickness.
4. You’d better visit in the morning: Many of the main halls in Drepung Monastery are closed in the afternoons, so it is recommended to visit in the morning or at noon. Afternoons are a good time to watch the Buddhist philosophical debates.
How to Plan Lhasa Tours with Drepung Monastery?
In Tibet, foreign travelers are required to explore with a travel agency. A 4-day Lhasa tour or an 8-day Lhasa Shigatse Mount Everest tour that includes a visit to the Drepung Monastery is a good way to experience the key attractions in the region.
Usually, it is common for travelers to visit both Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery in one day, as these two monasteries are among the most famous Gelug monasteries in Tibet. By visiting both monasteries in a day, travelers can fully immerse themselves in Tibetan culture and witness the unique traditions and rituals of these two important religious sites.
Explore Tibet with Asia Odyssey Travel
Local based in Lhasa and Tibet over 10 years, our local team at Asia Odyssey Travel has carefully designed Tibet tours that offer a truly authentic and unforgettable experience. You can choose to travel in the comfort of a private tour with a flexible itinerary, or join a group tour that's budget-friendly without compromising on quality. Whatever your preference, Asia Odyssey Travel has a tour that caters to your needs and desires, ensuring that your journey to Tibet is an unforgettable adventure.
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