Ani Tsankhung Nunnery
Lhasa's sole female Buddhist monastery, steeped in history and offering a serene spiritual experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience the peaceful atmosphere
Ani Tsankhung Nunnery
Best Time
Experience the peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Lhasa's sole female Buddhist monastery, steeped in history and offering a serene spiritual experience.
"A peaceful place to visit and support this nunnery. "
🎯 Search for 'Anitsangkung Nunnery'
The address can be tricky; use this exact name to find the correct location. :world_map:
💰 Entrance Fee & Support
Expect a 40 yuan entrance fee. Your visit supports the nuns' livelihood. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Meditation Cave of Songtsen Gampo
Near the nunnery
Explore the historic cave where Tibet's 7th-century king meditated, a site of deep spiritual significance.
Thousand-Armed Chenrezig Statue
Second floor main hall
Marvel at the impressive statue of Chenrezig, the Bodhisattva of Compassion, depicted with a thousand arms.
Nuns' Teahouse and Shop
Monastery courtyard
Enjoy a cup of tea and browse for unique rosaries and jewelry, directly supporting the resident nuns.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Visit to a Sacred Site
Navigating to the Nunnery
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Search for 'Anitsangkung Nunnery'
The address can be tricky; use this exact name to find the correct location. :world_map:
💰 Entrance Fee & Support
Expect a 40 yuan entrance fee. Your visit supports the nuns' livelihood. :moneybag:
🙏 Dress Modestly
As a sacred Buddhist site, wear respectful clothing covering shoulders and knees. :pray:
🤫 Be Mindful of Nuns
Observe their recitations and daily life respectfully; avoid disruptive behavior. :speakerwiththree_dots:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Search for 'Anitsangkung Nunnery'
The address can be tricky; use this exact name to find the correct location. :world_map:
💰 Entrance Fee & Support
Expect a 40 yuan entrance fee. Your visit supports the nuns' livelihood. :moneybag:
🙏 Dress Modestly
As a sacred Buddhist site, wear respectful clothing covering shoulders and knees. :pray:
🤫 Be Mindful of Nuns
Observe their recitations and daily life respectfully; avoid disruptive behavior. :speakerwiththree_dots:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Ani Tsankhung Nunnery to be a peaceful and spiritually significant site, offering a unique glimpse into female monastic life in Lhasa. While the entrance fee is noted, many appreciate the opportunity to support the nuns directly through their teahouse and shop. Some travelers mention potential address inaccuracies, advising to search for 'Anitsangkung Nunnery' specifically.
"Anitsangkung Nunnery is a peaceful place ❤️
Do visit and support this nunnery. The entrance is 40 yuan. NOTE: this address is wrong. Try searching for Anitsangkung Nunnery instead."
Bibi Chia
"Buddhist nunnery in Lhasa, Tibet"
Theo P
"The Tsamkhung Buddhist monastery is the only female one located in the old city. Its name means "meditation cave." Indeed, nearby there was a cave where Songtsen Gampo, king of Tibet in the 7th century, meditated.
In the 15th century, a disciple of Tsongkhapa had the monastery built here, which was later expanded in the early 20th century by order of the prior of Ganden.
The meeting with the nuns was pleasant; they were engaged in reciting the Kanjer, to make the air vibrate with the Buddha's words.
The main statue, on the second floor, depicts Chenrezig of the Thousand Arms.
The nuns run a teahouse in the monastery courtyard and a shop selling rosaries and jewelry."
Maria Cecilia Torri
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Finding the nunnery can be tricky as addresses can be inaccurate. It's best to search for 'Anitsangkung Nunnery' directly on your map app. Taxis are readily available in Lhasa and can take you there.
While it's located in the old city, some travelers report address discrepancies. Using the specific name 'Anitsangkung Nunnery' is key to avoiding confusion.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is 40 yuan. This fee helps support the nunnery and the nuns who reside there.
While specific hours aren't always listed, it's a functioning monastery. Visiting during daylight hours is generally recommended to experience its peaceful atmosphere.
Photography rules can vary in Tibetan monasteries. It's always best to be discreet and respectful. Ask permission before taking close-up photos of the nuns or sacred objects.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
It's the only female Buddhist monastery in Lhasa's old city, known as the 'meditation cave.' It holds historical significance with a cave used by King Songtsen Gampo.
You can see the main statue of Chenrezig of the Thousand Arms on the second floor and observe the nuns engaged in their spiritual practices.
Interacting respectfully is encouraged. The nuns run a teahouse and a shop, offering a chance to engage and support them.
The name 'Tsamkhung' means 'meditation cave,' referring to a nearby cave where the 7th-century Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo meditated.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the nuns operate a teahouse within the monastery courtyard, offering a place to rest and enjoy refreshments.
The nunnery has a shop selling items like rosaries and jewelry, providing a way to support the resident nuns.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the serene courtyard, the impressive Chenrezig statue, and the unique architecture. Always be mindful of the nuns' privacy.
While not explicitly stated, it's wise to be discreet. Avoid flash photography and photographing individuals without their consent.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting the teahouse for a simple snack, which can be a nice break for kids. The shop selling rosaries and jewelry might also capture their attention. The key is to frame it as a visit to a special, quiet place where people practice their faith.
🧘 Solo Travelers & Spiritual Seekers
Engage with the nuns by visiting their teahouse or browsing their shop. This provides a gentle way to connect and show appreciation for their way of life. The historical significance of the meditation cave also adds a layer of contemplative depth to your visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Spiritual Significance of Ani Tsankhung
The monastery's origins trace back to the 15th century when a disciple of the influential Tsongkhapa founded it. It was later expanded in the early 20th century, reflecting its enduring importance. Visitors often describe a palpable sense of peace and devotion, noting the nuns engaged in reciting the Kanjur, filling the air with sacred vibrations.
This nunnery offers a rare glimpse into the lives of Tibetan Buddhist nuns and their dedication to spiritual practice. It's a place to connect with Tibetan Buddhism on a more intimate level, away from the larger, more crowded monasteries.
Supporting the Nunnery and Its Residents
Additionally, the nunnery features a shop where you can purchase items such as rosaries and jewelry. These items are often handmade or curated by the nuns themselves, making them meaningful souvenirs. Purchasing from the shop directly benefits the community and allows you to take a piece of the nunnery's spirit home with you.
Travelers often emphasize the importance of supporting such local institutions. By patronizing the teahouse and shop, you contribute to the sustainability of Ani Tsankhung Nunnery and show appreciation for the nuns' way of life.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit