Drepung Monastery
Explore Drepung Monastery, one of Tibet's 'three great monasteries,' a historic center of Gelug Buddhism with vast halls and stunning mountain views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience serene atmosphere
Drepung Monastery
Best Time
Experience serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Drepung Monastery, one of Tibet's 'three great monasteries,' a historic center of Gelug Buddhism with vast halls and stunning mountain views.
"An enormous monastery complex with many chapels and assembly halls, offering an odd but special atmosphere. "
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs. Prioritize comfort for exploring the vast complex.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The high altitude can be dehydrating. Carry water and sip it regularly, especially during your acclimatization period.
Quick Facts
Rating
4.7 · 152 reviews
Type
Place of Worship
Website
drepunggomang.orgHighlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Assembly Hall
Main monastic complex
Witness the scale of Tibetan Buddhism in this vast hall, once home to thousands of monks. Feel the spiritual energy.
Drepung Kora (Circumambulation)
Outer pathways
Hike the sacred kora route for breathtaking views of Lhasa and the monastery, dotted with religious carvings.
Thangka Display
Various chapels
If you're lucky, you might witness the unfurling of a giant thangka, a sacred scroll painting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Altitude Acclimatization is Key
Plan for Many Steps & Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs. Prioritize comfort for exploring the vast complex.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The high altitude can be dehydrating. Carry water and sip it regularly, especially during your acclimatization period.
⏰ Allow Ample Time
Drepung is huge! Don't rush your visit; give yourself at least 3-4 hours to truly appreciate its scale and beauty.
🙏 Respect the Monks
Observe monks respectfully, especially during prayer or debate sessions. Ask permission before taking close-up photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs. Prioritize comfort for exploring the vast complex.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The high altitude can be dehydrating. Carry water and sip it regularly, especially during your acclimatization period.
⏰ Allow Ample Time
Drepung is huge! Don't rush your visit; give yourself at least 3-4 hours to truly appreciate its scale and beauty.
🙏 Respect the Monks
Observe monks respectfully, especially during prayer or debate sessions. Ask permission before taking close-up photos.
📸 Capture the Views
The Kora route offers stunning panoramic views of Lhasa and the surrounding mountains. Don't forget your camera!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Drepung Monastery for its immense scale, historical significance, and spiritual atmosphere, often highlighting the breathtaking views from the Kora. While the many steps and high altitude can be challenging, the experience is widely considered profound and enriching, offering a glimpse into Tibetan Buddhist life.
"A quite monastery that is less visited by tourists. However, it used to be the largest monastery in Tibet and its more of a Buddhism university.
Drepung Kora is the highlight once you have acclimatized the altitude. There are so many sacred religious carvings on stones. The Kora also offers an amazing overview of both Drepung Monastery and Lhasa city"
Jun Deng
"Enormous monastery complex with many chapels and assembly halls. Many, many steps. Tourists mixed with pilgrims gives the place an odd feel, but the atmosphere was very special."
John Weekes
"One of the oldest monastery in Tibet. Lovely venue to learn Tibetan Buddhist on their daily life."
indra sutanto
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a taxi or a local bus from Lhasa city to Drepung Monastery. Taxis are more convenient but pricier. Local buses are a budget-friendly option. The journey takes about 30-45 minutes.
Drepung Monastery is located about 8 kilometers (5 miles) west of Lhasa city center. It's easily accessible by taxi or bus.
Many visitors opt for a taxi for convenience, especially if they are short on time. However, local buses are a more authentic and economical way to reach the monastery.
While technically possible, walking is not recommended due to the distance and high altitude. It's best to use local transportation.
Yes, local buses frequently depart from Lhasa city, often near the Barkhor Street area. It's advisable to ask locals for the most current bus numbers and departure points.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is an entrance fee for Drepung Monastery. The exact price can vary, so it's best to check upon arrival.
Drepung Monastery typically opens in the morning and closes in the late afternoon. It's advisable to visit earlier in the day to have ample time for exploration.
Generally, you can purchase tickets upon arrival at the monastery. Advance booking is usually not required for individual visitors.
Information on discounts can vary. It's recommended to inquire at the ticket counter if you are eligible for any concessions.
Drepung Monastery is usually open on public holidays, but it might be more crowded. Check local schedules for any specific closures or special events.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visiting in the early morning offers a serene experience with fewer crowds. Afternoons can be lively with monks debating.
To fully explore the vast complex, including the Kora route, allocate at least 3-4 hours.
Dress modestly and respectfully, covering your shoulders and knees. Comfortable walking shoes are essential due to the many steps.
Photography is generally allowed in most areas, but always be mindful and respectful, especially in prayer halls or when monks are present. Avoid flash photography in sensitive areas.
Due to the numerous stairs and uneven terrain, Drepung Monastery can be challenging for those with mobility issues. The Kora route is particularly strenuous.
📸 📸 Photography
The Kora route offers incredible panoramic views of the monastery and Lhasa. The courtyards and intricate details of the chapels are also great subjects.
While generally permitted, avoid intrusive photography, especially of monks in prayer or during ceremonies. Some inner sanctums may prohibit cameras.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens is great for the expansive views.
Early morning light is soft and ideal for landscape shots, while late afternoon can offer dramatic shadows and golden hues.
It's best to be discreet and respectful. Ask for permission if you wish to take close-up portraits. Many monks are accustomed to visitors but appreciate consideration.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit