How To Reach Drepung Monastery (Lhasa) In 2026 - 2027

Welcome to Drepung Monastery, Lhasa

Located at the foot of Mount Gephel, Drepung Monastery is one of the great three Gelukpa university monasteries of Tibet. It's an essential destination for any traveler interested in Tibetan Buddhism, culture, and history.

Travel Routes to Drepung Monastery, Lhasa

By Air:

To reach Drepung Monastery, most travelers will first arrive at Lhasa Gonggar Airport (LXA). International flights to Lhasa usually connect through cities like Kathmandu, Beijing, Chengdu, or Shanghai. From the airport, you can take a taxi or airport shuttle to Lhasa city center, which is about 65 kilometers away.

By Train:

If you prefer train travel, Lhasa is connected to the rest of China by the Qinghai-Tibet Railway. Trains to Lhasa depart from several major cities, including Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Guangzhou, and Xining, promising a scenic journey to the Tibetan plateau.

By Road:

Although it is less common, you can also reach Lhasa overland from Kathmandu or mainland Chinese cities, experiencing breathtaking landscapes along the way. This option is generally chosen by more adventurous travelers.

Local Transportation to Drepung Monastery

Once in Lhasa, the Drepung Monastery is approximately 8 km to the west of downtown. You can reach it through various local transportation options:

By Bus:

Public buses are available from different parts of the city. Take bus number 24, 25, or 31 and get off at Drepung Monastery stop. It's a cost-effective and authentic way to get there.

By Taxi:

Taking a taxi directly from your hotel or any other location within Lhasa is convenient and saves time. The cost is reasonable given the relative proximity of the city to the monastery.

Hiring a Private Vehicle:

This is a popular option for many visitors. You can hire a private car with a driver for a day trip from Lhasa to Drepung Monastery and other nearby attractions like Sera Monastery and Norbulingka.

By Bike or On Foot:

If you are feeling adventurous and well-acclimatized to the high altitude, you might rent a bike or hike to the monastery, allowing you to appreciate the natural beauty of the area at your own pace.

Important Notes

When planning your visit to Drep a special permit to travel to Tibet, known as a Tibet Travel Permit, which is obtained in addition to your Chinese visa. Safety first – ensure you are well acclimatized before engaging in any physically demanding activities in the high-altitude environment of Lhasa.

We hope you enjoy your visit to this historical and spiritual site!