Tashilhunpo Monastery - Buddhist shrine in Tibet's Shigatse

July,28 2016 BY Master Catherine Jigme 0 COMMENTS

　　Tashilhunpo Monastery - Buddhist shrine in Tibet's Shigatse

　　Most pilgrims across Tibetan areas and even the world generally go to the Jokhang Temple, the soul of Lhasa, for pilgrimage; however, another Buddhist shrine for them is the Tashilhunpo Monastery dubbed as the heart of Shigatse, the second-largest city in Tibet.

　　Tashilhunpo Monastery, which means "lucky and auspicious" in the Tibetan language, is located at the foot of Drolmari (Tara's Mountain), Shigatse. It was founded by the first Dalai Lama, Gedun Truppa, in 1447, covering an area of 237,000 square meters.

　　Listed as one of the six major monasteries for Gelug Sect of Tibetan Buddhism, the Tashilhunpo Monastery is the most representative one in Shigaste.

　　Standing at the entrance, one is immediately attracted by the dazzling Tibetan buildings with golden roofs and white walls. The main structures in the monastery are the Maitreya Chapel, the Panchen Lama's palace and the Kelsang Temple.

　　Besides the grand palaces and gigantic statues, the monastery is also featured characteristic mural paintings. The various shapes, splendid colors and exquisite painting skills are considered another masterpiece of Buddhist art.

　　Early in the morning, the Tashilhunpo Monastery is tranquil without bustling tourists but pious pilgrims. The shadow of pilgrims' worship on bended knees over and over is more touching in the majestic monastery and Buddhist shrine.

　　What's more, numerous sutra streamers hang on the hillside where the Tashilhunpo Monastery stands. Whenever the wind blows, the prayer is delivered to the Buddha for one time.

About the Author - Master Catherine Jigme

With exceptional passion and outstanding leadership, Mrs. Catherine has dedicated herself to Tibet inbound tourism and China tour for 15 years. As one of the handful females who see great potential of Chinese inbound tourism, Catherine has made great contribution to promoting Tibet tourism and enhancing the employment of Tibetans and prosperity of local Tibetan community.

Over the years, she travelled overseas with Tibet Tourism Bureau many times to promote Tibet tourism. Currently, Catherine works as the marketing director of Tibet Vista, an opinion leader behind the whole team of Tibet Vista.

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