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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Tranquil atmosphere, fewer crowds

Drigung Til Monastery
Best Time
Tranquil atmosphere, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sacred Tibetan Buddhist monastery perched on a mountainside, offering breathtaking views and a profound spiritual atmosphere.
"The view from Drigung Til Monastery in Tibet is simply breathtaking."

🧥 Dress Warmly
The weather is very cold, wear layers! :cloud:
🚶♀️ Respectful Circumambulation
Participate in the sacred Lingkor path with reverence. :pray:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Monastery's Summit Views
Main monastery complex
Breathtaking panoramic vistas of the surrounding valleys and mountains. A truly awe-inspiring sight.

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.

The Prayer Hall's Deities
Prayer Hall
Marvel at the statues of Avalokiteshvara and Green Tara, where lamas impart wisdom.

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.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Serenity
Respectful Attire and Conduct
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧥 Dress Warmly
The weather is very cold, wear layers! :cloud:
🚶♀️ Respectful Circumambulation
Participate in the sacred Lingkor path with reverence. :pray:
📸 Photography Etiquette
Be mindful when taking photos, especially of ceremonies. :camerawithflash:
🚌 Bus to Monastery
Buses depart Jokhang Square early for a full day trip. :bus:
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Dress Warmly
The weather is very cold, wear layers! :cloud:
🚶♀️ Respectful Circumambulation
Participate in the sacred Lingkor path with reverence. :pray:
📸 Photography Etiquette
Be mindful when taking photos, especially of ceremonies. :camerawithflash:
🚌 Bus to Monastery
Buses depart Jokhang Square early for a full day trip. :bus:
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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. 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. 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.
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.
The bus journey from Lhasa can take a significant portion of the day, often returning around 5 PM. 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.
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.
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.
The sky burial area at Drigung Til Monastery is reportedly no longer open to tourists for observation. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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.
Visitors can observe and participate respectfully in practices like circumambulation around the monastery complex or the sacred Lingkor path. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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
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. Keep the visit relatively short to avoid fatigue.
🚶♂️ Solo Travelers & Backpackers
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.
🧘♀️ Spiritual Seekers
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. 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
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.
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.
Navigating the Journey and Logistics
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.
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. This preparation is key to enjoying the experience without being hindered by the elements.
Cultural Insights and Practices
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.
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.






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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit