Labrang Monastery

行走在民间的艺术家

5.0/5

Outstanding

When visiting Xiahe, a trip to Labrang Monastery, hailed as the "World's Tibetan Buddhist Academy," is a must. Red walls line the banks of the Xiahe River, their golden roofs gleaming in the clouds. The long prayer wheel corridor is the most captivating sight in the entire monastery. Along its 3.5-kilometer length, thousands of prayer wheels are polished smooth by countless hands of pilgrims. Following the local believers, slowly walking clockwise, the gentle push of the prayer wheels, accompanied by the sound of their turning and the aroma of yak butter carried on the breeze, calms the restless heart. The monastery entrance fee is 40 yuan, allowing entry to the various prayer halls. If you arrive at the right time, you can even witness monks debating. The halls are solemn and dignified; please refrain from photography, avoid stepping on the thresholds, and maintain silence. For a panoramic view of the entire monastery, you can purchase an additional ticket to climb the Gongtang Pagoda, offering a breathtaking vista perfect for photography. Objectively speaking, the overall experience is not overly commercialized; there is no excessive sales pitch, preserving a rich and authentic Tibetan religious atmosphere. The downsides are that the entire pilgrimage route requires continuous walking at an altitude of 3200 meters, which is quite physically demanding. The temperature difference between day and night is also significant, so be sure to bring a jacket and sunscreen. Also, please do not photograph the monks without their permission first. There's no need to deliberately walk the entire pilgrimage route; a leisurely stroll and soaking in the atmosphere are sufficient. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and experience the unique piety and peace of Gannan – a must-see stop on the Gannan loop.