Traveler's Guide to the Ancient Trandruk Monastery
Trandruk Monastery's story begins in the 7th century during the reign of King Songtsen Gampo. The templeconnects to Princess Wencheng, the princess of Dynasty Tang whose architectural wisdom helped position many of Tibet's earliest Buddhist temples. Nestled in the foothills of the beautiful Yarlung Valley, Trandruk Monastery stands as one of Tibet's most sacred historical sites. Located just several kilometers from Tsedang town in Shannan Prefecture, this remarkable temple offers visitors a unique glimpse into Tibet's royal Buddhist heritage.
Your journey to Trandruk Monastery begins in Lhasa, covering approximately 160 kilometers of breathtaking Tibetan landscape. The drive takes about 3 hours along well-maintained roads that follow the majestic Yarlung Tsangpo River. As you travel, you'll witness golden barley fields, traditional Tibetan villages, and stunning mountain vistas that make the journey as memorable as the destination itself. Upon reaching Tsedang, Shannan, a short 10-minute ride will bring you to the monastery's gates.
The monastery complex spans over 11,000 square meters, designed in traditional Tibetan architectural style. As you enter through the main gate, you'll find yourself in a spacious courtyard surrounded by prayer galleries filled with chanting monks and spinning prayer wheels. The main assembly hall houses magnificent statues of Buddha. The air carries the scent of butter lamps and incense, creating an atmosphere of timeless spirituality.
Among Trandruk Monastery's many treasures, the Pearl Thangka stands unparalleled. This extraordinary religious artwork, measuring 2 by 1.2 meters, depicts Avalokiteshvara in a resting position. What makes it truly miraculous is its composition—crafted from over 29,000 pearls, complemented by turquoise, coral, rubies, and gold. This masterpiece represents centuries of devotion and artistic excellence. Seeing this magnificent thangka glowing softly in the dim temple light is an experience that stays with travelers long after they leave Tibet.
Exploring Beyond the Monastery Walls
Your visit to Trandruk Monastery can easily be combined with other significant sites in the Yarlung Valley. Just 12 kilometers away stands Yumbulagang Palace, Tibet's first fortress-like palace perched dramatically on a hilltop with panoramic valley views. Further west lies Samye Monastery, Tibet's first complete Buddhist monastery featuring unique architectural styles blending Tibetan, Chinese, and Indian influences.
Conclusion
Linking all these shimmering pearls of attractions scattered across Tibet is where our team excels—why not let us craft your perfect journey?
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35 Comment ON "Traveler's Guide to the Ancient Trandruk Monastery"
Asked by Liliana Me** from Macau
plan a 7-8days trip for me and my boyfriend in April
Hi! I would like to plan a 7-8days trip for me and my boyfriend in April (3rd to 10th ideally) to Nepal, Tibet, and, if possible, Bhutan. Do you think it would be doable? Based on what I read, there are some places/things to do to consider: Nepal: Everest Base Camp trek and the Annapurna Circuit, ancient temples, sacred sites like Lumbini, Kathmandu, Tibet: The Potala Palace in Lhasa and the Jokhang Temple. eventually the holy Mount Kailash or the high-altitude plains. Bhutan: Thimphu, Paro, and the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery. To take part in cultural traditions, yoga, meditation... Of course I am open to any recommendations you could make. For your reference, we are both based in Asia: him, in Bangkok and myself in Macau. Thank you so much for the information you could provide and, if possible, an estimated budget for your offer.
Asked by Ke** from Singapore
Cycling Tour to Mt Kailash
Hi , we are planning a Cycling Trip once Tibet opens for Tourism. The plan is we shall arrive to Kathmandu , travel to the border and enter via Kerung. Can you pls send a day to day Itinerary starting from Kerung - Lake Manasarovar - Darchen - Asthapath. We shall go around Kailash on foot and resume Cycling back to Kerung. We are a Group of 6-8 persons. Thanks Pls send ur reply to Kevin
Asked by Debo** from USA
Please can you tell me the prices and dates for the Tibet Luxury Tour.
Also, could you please provide a detailed itinerary - I want to see how many hours are spent on buses/vehicles. Thank you! Deborah
Asked by S** from HongKong
Tibet Tour from HK
May I know if holding Mainland Travel Permit for HK Residents. is it also need to get the visa permit to Tibet and what is the procedure if need to apply? Thank you
Asked by Na** from USA
Is Kailash Mansarovar Trip open for Indian Passport Holder?
Is it open for Indian Passport Holder?
Asked by A** from Singapore
Enquiry on private tour
We are planning a trip from Hong Kong to Tibet during the 12th to 21st of April. We want a private tour that covers all the scenic places as well as the EBC. Please advise an itinerary along with the cost breakdown. Thanks.
Asked by Na** from Canada
We would like to take the train from Xining to Lhasa
Asked by Gr** from Canada
The "Tibet Entry Permit" should be apply
Asked by Tam** from Singapore
Sightseeing Potala Palace
Asked by Ka** from Singapore
plan to travel to Mount Kailash