Drepung Monastery, located in Lhasa, the capital of Tibet Autonomous Region, China, is one of the 'Great Three' Gelug university gompas of Tibet, the other two being Ganden and Sera. Drepung, which means 'rice heap' in Tibetan, was founded in 1416 by Jamyang Chojey, a direct disciple of Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug school. The monastery was once the largest in the world and housed over 10,000 monks. It is situated at the foot of Mount Gephel and is renowned for its grandeur and the rich cultural heritage it embodies. Drepung Monastery has played a pivotal role in the political, religious, and cultural life of Tibet. The monastery complex sprawls over vast expanses and comprises numerous chapels, colleges, and living quarters. The establishment features striking Tibetan architecture, with white-washed walls and golden roofs that glisten in the sunlight. The annual Shoton Festival, featuring the unveiling of a giant thangka, is one of the prominent events held at Drepung Monastery, attracting thousands of pilgrims and visitors. Despite historical upheavals, Drepung Monastery remains an important site for Buddhist scholarship and training.
Hill Stations (10)
Religious Places (66)
Historical Places (34)
Museums (9)
Wildlife Sanctuaries (6)
National Parks (6)
Forts (4)
Villages (17)
Zoos (5)
Mountains (10)
Gardens (11)
Waterfalls (4)
Lakes (5)
Trekking Places (2)
