Food In Sera Monastery

Food History of Sera Monastery, Lhasa, China

Sera Monastery, located in Lhasa, the capital of Tibet Autonomous Region in China, is one of the great three Gelug university monasteries of Tibet. Established in 1419, the monastery has a rich history not only in spiritual teachings but also in Tibetan culture and cuisine. Traditionally, the monks residing in the monastery have followed a simple, predominantly vegetarian diet, in accordance with Buddhist principles of non-violence and compassion towards all living beings.

The diet is heavily influenced by the altitude and climate of Tibet. Historically, the harsh weather conditions and the high altitude meant limited agricultural output, which influenced the consumption of root vegetables, barley, pulses, and dairy. Tsampa, a roasted barley flour, has been the staple food for centuries. Over time, with cultural exchanges and modernization, more varieties of fruits and vegetables have become available, and the cuisine in and around Sera Monastery has evolved accordingly.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Sera Monastery, Lhasa, China

1. Thenthuk (Veg): A hearty, hand-pulled noodle soup often served with vegetables and sometimes yak meat, although vegetarian versions are available.
2. Momo (Veg/Non-Veg): Tibetan-style dumplings that are filled with vegetables or cheese, with meat options typically avoiding beef in respect to Tibetan religious practices.
3. Tsampa (Veg): The Tibetan staple food made from roasted barley flour, usually mixed with tea and yak butter.
4. Butter Tea (Veg): A traditional Tibetan drink made from tea leaves, yak butter, and salt, providing necessary calories and nutrition in the cold climate.
5. Yak Cheese (Veg): A dairy product commonly consumed by Tibetans and a significant source of protein in vegetarian diets.
6. Tibetan Bread (Veg): A variety of breads, ranging from flatbreads to deep-fried dough, often served with simple side dishes or just tea.
7. Laping (Veg): This is a spicy and cold mung bean noodle dish, served with a soy-based sauce, chili, and vegetables, a refreshing choice in summer.
8. Yak Yogurt (Veg): A creamy and tangy yogurt made from yak milk, which is often sweeter and richer than cow's milk varieties.
9. Shabaley (Veg/Non-Veg): Tibetan pastries that are usually stuffed with meat, but vegetarian options are filled with cheese or vegetables.
10. Chang (Veg): A mild alcoholic beverage brewed from barley, often consumed during Tibetan festivals and celebrations.

Top Famous Restaurants in Sera Monastery, Lhasa, China

Sera Me Monastic Restaurant

Address: Sera Monastery Scenic Area, Lhasa, Tibet, China

Famous Food: Vegetable Momo (Veg)

Tibetan Family Kitchen

Address: No.1 Danjielin Road, Lhasa 850000, Tibet, China

Famous Food: Thenthuk (Veg), Tibetan Bread (Veg)

Himalaya Restaurant

Address: Lugu 2nd Alley, Lhasa, Tibet, China

Famous Food: Laping (Veg), Chang (Veg)

House of Shambhala Restaurant

Address: No.7 Jiri Eerxiang, Lhasa, Tibet, China

Famous Food: Yak Cheese (V/business

Summit Cafe

Address: Beijing East Road, across from the Banak Shol Hotel, Lhasa, Tibet, China

Famous Food: Yak Yogurt (Veg)

While enjoying the spiritual ambiance and rich cultural heritage of Sera Monastery, tourists have the opportunity to indulge in a variety of traditional Tibetan dishes, most of which are vegetarian due to the religious practices of the local Tibetan Buddhist community.