Narthang Monastery, Shigatse

Narthang Monastery, located in the **Shigatse** region of **Tibet**, is one of the most significant Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, renowned for its rich history and religious importance. The monastery is situated in the **Narthang Valley**, about **18 kilometers** southwest of **Shigatse** city, at an elevation of approximately **3,900 meters (12,800 feet)** above sea level. Founded in the **11th century** by **Jamyang Shepa**, Narthang Monastery holds an important place in the development of **Tibetan Buddhism** and is well-known for being the site where the famous **Tibetan printing press** was established.

Why Narthang Monastery is Famous

Narthang Monastery is famous for several reasons. Its primary fame stems from its role as the home of the **Tibetan printing press**. In the **17th century**, the monastery played a key part in printing many of the sacred **Tibetan Buddhist texts**, including the **Kangyur** and **Tengyur** scriptures. These texts are some of the most important scriptures in Tibetan Buddhism and were printed here on woodblocks, making the monastery a crucial center of Tibetan religious culture and literature.

In addition to its historical significance, Narthang Monastery is also famous for its **peaceful surroundings** and its role in supporting the **Gelug sect** of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery was home to several important **Lamas** and is still a place of worship and learning for **Buddhists** today. It’s less visited compared to some of Tibet’s other monasteries, making it an excellent destination for those seeking a quieter and more contemplative experience.

How to Reach Narthang Monastery, Shigatse

Getting to Narthang Monastery is relatively straightforward, but due to its location, it requires a bit of planning. Here’s how you can reach it:

By Air

The nearest airport to Narthang Monastery is **Shigatse Peace Airport**. Flights from **Lhasa** and other major cities in Tibet are available, and the airport is about **90 kilometers** (approximately **56 miles**) from the monastery. Once you land at Shigatse Airport, you can hire a **taxi** or arrange a **private vehicle** to take you to the monastery.

By Train

If you're coming from **Lhasa**, the **Qinghai-Tibet Railway** offers a scenic and convenient train ride to **Shigatse**. From Shigatse, you can take a **taxi** or **local bus** to Narthang Monastery, which is about **18 kilometers** away. The train journey itself is a popular option for travelers wishing to experience the stunning views of the Tibetan Plateau.

By Road

If you are already in **Shigatse**, you can reach the monastery by road. The distance between Shigatse city and Narthang Monastery is around **18 kilometers**, and it takes approximately **30 minutes** to an hour to reach the monastery by **private car** or **taxi**. The roads are well-maintained, and traveling by vehicle is the most common way to visit Narthang Monastery.

Weather and Best Time to Visit Narthang Monastery

The weather around Narthang Monastery, located at a high altitude, is typical of the **Tibetan Plateau**: cold in winter and mild in summer. The region experiences harsh winters, with temperatures often dropping well below **0°C (32°F)**, and snowfall is common between **November and February**.

The best time to visit Narthang Monastery is during the **spring** (April to June) and **autumn** (September to October) months when temperatures are milder, and the natural beauty of the Tibetan plateau is at its peak. In these months, the weather is relatively warm, with daytime temperatures ranging between **10°C (50°F)** and **20°C (68°F)**. It’s best to avoid the summer monsoon season as heavy rains may make travel difficult.

Entry and Visit Details about Narthang Monastery

Visitors can visit Narthang Monastery throughout the year, but it is important to keep in mind that **foreign travelers** need to obtain the necessary **Tibet Travel Permit** to enter Tibet. It is required that you arrange your travel through an **authorized travel agency** in Tibet to handle your permits, transport, and local guide arrangements. It is also recommended to travel with a **guide** due to the complex regulations in Tibet.

Upon arrival at Narthang Monastery, visitors must **register** at the entrance before entering the monastery’s main prayer halls and surrounding areas. The monastery remains open from **8:00 AM to 5:00 PM**, and visitors are encouraged to explore the monastery grounds, including its **stupas**, **temples**, and sacred rooms. The **entry fee** is relatively low, but it can vary depending on the season and any ongoing events or festivals.

History and Architecture of Narthang Monastery

Narthang Monastery has a deep historical significance in Tibetan Buddhism. It was founded in the **11th century** and originally affiliated with the **Sakya** school of Tibetan Buddhism. However, over the centuries, it became associated with the **Gelug sect**. The monastery reached its peak importance during the **17th century**, largely due to its involvement in printing the **Kangyur** and **Tengyur** Buddhist scriptures, essential texts for Tibetan Buddhists.

The architecture of Narthang Monastery is typical of **Tibetan monasteries**, with an intricate combination of **red, white, and gold** colors on the buildings. The main temple contains beautiful murals and statues of **Buddhas** and **Bodhisattvas**, including a **life-sized statue of Maitreya**. The monastery also features a **giant stupa**, which is an important religious and cultural symbol.

The monastery’s buildings are constructed using **local materials**, including **stone** and **wood**, and have been designed to blend harmoniously with the surrounding **natural landscape**. The site’s overall **layout** reflects the **Tibetan Buddhist concept of the cosmos**, with its buildings arranged symbolically to represent the physical and spiritual realms of the universe.

Things to Do at Narthang Monastery

• Explore the Murals and Art: One of the monastery’s highlights is its beautifully preserved **murals** and artwork. Take time to admire the detailed religious paintings depicting scenes from **Buddhist teachings** and **Tibetan mythology**.
• Visit the Tibetan Printing Press: If you’re interested in the **printing press**, you can see where **Buddhist scriptures** were once printed on woodblocks. This press played a key role in the preservation and dissemination of **Tibetan Buddhist texts**.
• Participate in Prayer and Meditation: The monastery is a great place to experience the tranquil atmosphere of Tibetan Buddhism. Join local monks in their daily rituals or simply meditate in the serene environment.
• Explore the Monastery Grounds: Stroll around the monastery grounds, which are set amidst the stunning **Tibetan Plateau** landscape. The natural beauty of the area makes it perfect for peaceful reflection.

Interesting Facts about Narthang Monastery

• The **Tibetan printing press** at Narthang is one of the oldest and most important presses in Tibet, playing a vital role in printing many sacred Buddhist texts.
• The **Kangyur** and **Tengyur** texts printed here are among the most respected scriptures in Tibetan Buddhism, and the monastery was a major center for **Buddhist scholarship**.
• The **stupa** in Narthang Monastery houses relics and sacred objects related to the **Gelug** tradition.
• Throughout its history, the monastery has been a center for **pilgrimage**, **study**, and **meditation**, attracting Buddhists from all over Tibet.

Tips for Visiting Narthang Monastery

• Make sure to **acclimatize** to the high altitude before visiting Narthang Monastery to avoid altitude sickness.
• It’s recommended to **hire a guide** for a more informative and enriching experience.
• When visiting religious sites, always dress **modestly** and show respect for the local customs.
• Bring some **water** and **snacks** as amenities near the monastery may be limited.
• Respect the monks and their practices by refraining from loud noises or taking photos without permission in sacred areas.