Aug’24
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Drigung Til Monastery

4.7
·15 reviews·Lhasa, China

A sacred Tibetan Buddhist monastery perched on a mountainside, offering breathtaking views and a profound spiritual atmosphere.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Tranquil atmosphere, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Aug’24

Drigung Til Monastery

Best Time

Early mornings

Tranquil atmosphere, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A sacred Tibetan Buddhist monastery perched on a mountainside, offering breathtaking views and a profound spiritual atmosphere.

4.7
(15 reviews)

"The view from Drigung Til Monastery in Tibet is simply breathtaking."

Vertical photo
TIP

🧥 Dress Warmly

The weather is very cold, wear layers! :cloud:

🚶‍♀️ Respectful Circumambulation

Participate in the sacred Lingkor path with reverence. :pray:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Monastery's Summit Views

The Monastery's Summit Views

Main monastery complex

Breathtaking panoramic vistas of the surrounding valleys and mountains. A truly awe-inspiring sight.

Instagram
The Sacred Assembly Hall

The Sacred Assembly Hall

Assembly Hall

Home to the statue of the founder and local deities, offering a glimpse into the monastery's spiritual heart.

Reddit
The Prayer Hall's Deities

The Prayer Hall's Deities

Prayer Hall

Marvel at the statues of Avalokiteshvara and Green Tara, where lamas impart wisdom.

Reddit
The World's Largest Prayer Wheel

The World's Largest Prayer Wheel

Samten Hills Dalat (Vietnam location)

A Guinness World Record holder, this massive prayer wheel offers a unique spiritual experience.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Serenity

To experience the profound peace of Drigung Til Monastery, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. This helps you avoid the midday crowds and fully immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere. Consider visiting on days outside of major Tibetan festivals for a more tranquil experience. Reddit

Respectful Attire and Conduct

As a sacred Buddhist site, dress modestly. Long sleeves, pants, and a scarf are recommended, especially given the cold weather at higher altitudes. Always be respectful of monks, prayer flags, and the spiritual practices observed here. TikTok

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Tranquil atmosphere, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light, peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Days outside festivals
Why
Avoid peak pilgrim times
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Hạnh phúc vô bờ khi được nhìn thấy Ngài ! #samtenhillsdalat #drigungkagyusamtenlingvietnam #drigungkagyu
@longvu3979
30.3K likes • 730.5K views

🧥 Dress Warmly

The weather is very cold, wear layers! Reddit :cloud:

🚶‍♀️ Respectful Circumambulation

Participate in the sacred Lingkor path with reverence. TikTok :pray:

LHASA LING KORA ✔️🙌🏻💐🙏🏻 The Lingkor is the ancient circumambulation route leading around all the pilgrimage points within Lhasa city, probably used since the 15th century. Circumambulation is a traditional Buddhist practice and has been part of Tibetan pilgrimage and veneration for more than a thousand years. Lingkhor is considered a sacred path, the most common amongst the locals and pilgrims vis...
@denkarsgetawayofficial
4.7K likes • 54.1K views
The view from Drigung Til Monastery in Tibet. . . . #beautiful_world #beautifulworld #exploretheglobe #globe_travel #keepexploring #letsgosomewhere #natgeo #nationalgeographic #roamtheplanet #travel #travelblogger #travelbug #traveldeeper #traveldiary #travelers #travelguide #tibet #travellers #travelling #travelnow #travelphoto #travelpic #travels #travelworld #travlegram #snowliontours
snowliontours
2.6K likes • 23.7K views

📸 Photography Etiquette

Be mindful when taking photos, especially of ceremonies. Instagram :camerawithflash:

🚌 Bus to Monastery

Buses depart Jokhang Square early for a full day trip. Reddit :bus:

Lhasa - Rating - Tidrum Nunnery/hotspring - Drigung Til Monastery tour #hotspring #spa #tibettour #tibettravel #tibettrip #travelpermit
tibetuniversaltravel
35 likes • 371 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🧥 Dress Warmly

The weather is very cold, wear layers! Reddit :cloud:

🚶‍♀️ Respectful Circumambulation

Participate in the sacred Lingkor path with reverence. TikTok :pray:

📸 Photography Etiquette

Be mindful when taking photos, especially of ceremonies. Instagram :camerawithflash:

🚌 Bus to Monastery

Buses depart Jokhang Square early for a full day trip. Reddit :bus:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(15 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are consistently awed by the breathtaking panoramic views and the profound spiritual atmosphere of Drigung Til Monastery. The historical significance and the serene mountain setting are frequently praised. However, the extreme cold and the inaccessibility of the sky burial site are noted drawbacks for some.

"3-April-2025 Sky Burial area.
The weather is very cold, here everyone wears four layers of clothes and pants.
However, this trip was an interesting experience for us, the group from Vihara Sukhavati Prajna, Indonesia"

Sunari Wirohardjo

"Cool"

Mazharul 2

"The most famous temple for sky burial is no longer open to tourists to watch the sky burial ceremony."

張魚蝦

What People Like

Stunning mountain views
Spiritual atmosphere
Historical significance

What People Dislike

Extreme cold weather
Sky burial site closed

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Buses depart from Jokhang Square in Lhasa at 5:30 and 6:30 AM, offering a round-trip fare of 100 RMB. The journey typically includes visits to Yangrigang Temple and other sites, arriving back in Lhasa around 5 PM. Reddit This is a popular option for experiencing the monastery and surrounding areas in a single day.

Yes, many tours include Drigung Til Monastery. For instance, some tours might combine it with visits to hot springs like Tidrum Nunnery. Instagram It's advisable to book with a reputable agency, especially if you require a travel permit for Tibet.

For the best photographic opportunities, consider hiring a private vehicle or joining a small group tour that allows for flexible stops. This enables you to capture the stunning views during optimal lighting conditions, especially during sunrise or sunset. Instagram+1

The Lingkor is an ancient circumambulation route traditionally used for pilgrimage. While the specific routes within the monastery complex are sacred, the general practice of circumambulation is a key part of the spiritual experience. TikTok

The bus journey from Lhasa can take a significant portion of the day, often returning around 5 PM. Reddit If traveling independently or with a tour, factor in travel time to and from the monastery, as well as time spent exploring the site.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

As Drigung Til Monastery is located in Tibet, foreign visitors will need a Tibet Travel Permit. This is typically arranged through a tour operator when booking your trip. Instagram

Information regarding specific entrance fees can vary. It's best to confirm with your tour operator or check local listings closer to your travel date. Reddit

Monasteries in Tibet generally open early in the morning and close in the late afternoon. Specific hours can vary, so it's advisable to check with your guide or tour provider. Reddit

The sky burial area at Drigung Til Monastery is reportedly no longer open to tourists for observation. Reddit While historically significant, this practice is now conducted with more privacy.

Yes, days like the 8th, 18th, and 28th of the Tibetan calendar are considered significant and may attract more pilgrims. Reddit Visiting on other days can offer a more peaceful experience.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Drigung Til Monastery was historically famous for its sky burial ceremonies, a traditional Tibetan funeral practice where bodies are exposed to vultures. Reddit While this practice is no longer open to tourists, it remains a significant aspect of the monastery's history and cultural context.

Inside, you can explore the Assembly Hall, which houses the statue of the founder and local deities, and the Prayer Hall, featuring statues of Avalokiteshvara and Green Tara. Reddit The monastery's location offers stunning views of the valley.

Yes, Drigung Til Monastery is often visited as part of a day trip from Lhasa, especially via the organized bus tours. Reddit These tours typically depart early and return in the late afternoon, allowing ample time to explore the monastery and its surroundings.

The weather at Drigung Til Monastery is generally very cold, especially at its high altitude. Visitors are advised to wear multiple layers of warm clothing, including pants and a jacket. Reddit

Visitors can observe and participate respectfully in practices like circumambulation around the monastery complex or the sacred Lingkor path. TikTok It's important to be mindful and respectful of the monks and their rituals.

📸 📸 Photography

The monastery's elevated position offers incredible panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains, making it a prime spot for landscape photography. Instagram+1 Capture the intricate details of the monastery's architecture and the prayer flags fluttering in the wind.

While general photography is usually permitted, it's crucial to be respectful. Avoid taking photos of monks during private prayers or ceremonies without permission. Reddit Always ask before photographing individuals.

A wide-angle lens is excellent for capturing the expansive landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for details within the monastery or distant mountain peaks. Instagram A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions, especially during early mornings or late afternoons.

As the sky burial area is no longer open to tourists, photography of this specific practice is not possible. Reddit Focus your photography on the monastery's architecture, the stunning natural scenery, and the cultural elements that are accessible.

Early mornings and late afternoons offer the most dramatic lighting for photography, with soft, golden hues illuminating the landscape and monastery. Instagram+1 These times also tend to be less crowded, allowing for more contemplative shots.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting Drigung Til Monastery with children requires careful planning due to the high altitude and cold weather. Ensure children are dressed in multiple warm layers, including hats and gloves. The long bus rides might be challenging for very young children, so consider bringing entertainment. Reddit

While the spiritual aspects are profound, focus on the visual elements that can engage kids, such as the colorful prayer flags, the impressive monastery architecture, and the vast mountain scenery. The sheer scale of the world's largest prayer wheel at Samten Hills Dalat (a related site) can also be a captivating experience for younger visitors. TikTok Keep the visit relatively short to avoid fatigue.

🚶‍♂️ Solo Travelers & Backpackers

Solo travelers can find Drigung Til Monastery a deeply rewarding experience, especially when opting for the public bus from Lhasa. This offers a chance to interact with locals and fellow pilgrims. Reddit Be prepared for the cold and pack essentials for a long day trip. The monastery's serene environment is perfect for introspection and quiet contemplation. TikTok

Consider joining a small group tour if you prefer more structured travel or want to ensure you have all necessary permits and transportation sorted. This can also be a cost-effective way to visit. Always keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, as you would in any travel destination. Instagram

🧘‍♀️ Spiritual Seekers

For those on a spiritual journey, Drigung Til Monastery offers an unparalleled opportunity for reflection and connection. The monastery's history as a center for the Drigung Kagyu lineage and its serene mountain setting create a powerful atmosphere for meditation and prayer. TikTokReddit

Participating in circumambulation around the monastery or along the Lingkor path can be a deeply moving experience. Take time to absorb the tranquility, observe the prayer flags, and appreciate the profound sense of peace that permeates the site. TikTok Engaging with the local culture respectfully will enhance your spiritual immersion.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Spiritual Significance of Drigung Til Monastery

Founded in the 12th century, Drigung Til Monastery is the headquarters of the Drigung Kagyu lineage, a prominent school within Tibetan Buddhism. Its name, 'Drigung Til,' translates to 'Drigung Hill.' The monastery is perched dramatically on a mountainside, offering a profound sense of isolation and spiritual focus. It has historically been a vital center for Buddhist teachings and practices, attracting pilgrims and scholars for centuries. Reddit

Beyond its architectural and scenic beauty, the monastery holds deep spiritual significance. It was historically renowned for its association with sky burials, a traditional funeral rite where the deceased are offered to vultures. While this practice is no longer accessible to tourists, it underscores the monastery's unique cultural and spiritual heritage. The monastery's location itself is considered sacred, providing a serene environment for meditation and contemplation. Reddit

Visitors often speak of the peaceful and awe-inspiring atmosphere at Drigung Til. The stunning views from the monastery's vantage point contribute to this feeling, allowing one to connect with both nature and spirituality. The presence of lamas and the ongoing religious activities further enhance the immersive experience, making it a destination for those seeking cultural and spiritual enrichment. TikTok

Navigating the Journey and Logistics

Reaching Drigung Til Monastery typically involves a journey from Lhasa. The most common and economical method is by public bus, which departs from Jokhang Square early in the morning. These buses often make stops at other significant sites, such as Yangrigang Temple, turning the trip into a full-day excursion. The round-trip fare is approximately 100 RMB. Reddit

For those seeking more comfort or flexibility, private tours or hired vehicles are also options. These can be arranged through local travel agencies and offer the advantage of setting your own pace and making stops for photography or rest. It's essential to factor in the travel time, as the journey can be lengthy, with return to Lhasa usually occurring around 5 PM. Instagram

When planning your visit, remember that Drigung Til Monastery is situated at a high altitude, and the weather can be extremely cold, even in warmer months. Visitors are strongly advised to wear multiple layers of warm clothing, including thermal wear, thick socks, gloves, and a hat. Reddit This preparation is key to enjoying the experience without being hindered by the elements.

Cultural Insights and Practices

Drigung Til Monastery is a living testament to Tibetan Buddhist traditions. The practice of circumambulation, known as Lingkor, is a fundamental aspect of pilgrimage and veneration. Visitors can participate in walking the sacred paths around the monastery, spinning prayer wheels, and reciting mantras, immersing themselves in the spiritual rhythm of the site. TikTok

The monastery's architecture itself tells a story, with its Assembly Hall housing important statues and the Prayer Hall serving as a space for instruction and devotion. Observing the daily routines of the monks, if possible, offers a deeper understanding of the monastic life. Respectful observation is key, and it's always appropriate to ask for permission before photographing individuals or specific rituals. Reddit

While the famous sky burial ceremonies are no longer open to the public, their historical significance is undeniable. Understanding this aspect of Tibetan culture, even from a distance, provides context for the monastery's unique place in history. The overall experience at Drigung Til is one of profound cultural immersion, offering a glimpse into a world deeply rooted in spiritual practice and tradition. TikTok

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