Xiaozhao Temple - Seeking a Place of Serenity
Xiaozhao Temple is well-known and revered by many because it was originally constructed under the supervision of Princess Wencheng. Inside the temple, there is an 8-year-old life-sized statue of Sakyamuni. In the 18th century, it also served as the site of the Upper Tantric College, the highest institution of the Gelugpa sect's esoteric teachings.
One of the residences of the four great living Buddhas in Tibet. Dan Jie Lin Temple (built in 1762, named by Emperor Qianlong, is the largest temple among the four great temples. Climbing the wooden stairs to the top floor offers a view of the Potala Palace).
Cemenlin Temple (built in 1777, a temple literally surrounded by residential houses, with participants in the Buddhist temple being local residents. The bustling believers and the brightly colored clothes drying in the courtyard prove that this is a down-to-earth temple in Lhasa).
Gongdelin Temple (built in 1792, its 'Gongdelin' plaque was bestowed by Emperor Qianlong, and it has a history of over 200 years. Many Tibetan locals come here to offer incense and pray for blessings).
Xideling Temple (originally built in the 9th century AD, is the oldest temple among the four major temples. It is said that the base of the temple is connected to Jokhang Temple and Potala Palace, but this is just a rumor. However, the once glorious Xideling Temple was reduced to ruins in a religious coup, and the collapsed black and gray buildings still tell the history of that time).
It is not difficult to catch a glimpse of Canggu Temple in the photos of many tourists. One reason is that it is the only nunnery in the old town, and the other is that its sweet tea is quite famous. It is almost a must-visit spot for all tourists who come to Tibet and have done their research.
Sera Monastery is the most renowned temple in the northern suburbs. Typically starting at 3 PM, a unique debate ceremony is held here. Monks usually exchange their learned insights and understanding of Buddhism through question-and-answer or group discussions. They may pound their chests, stamp their feet, frown in concentration, or smile with joy, making the event highly engaging.
Zaki Temple is the only wealth god temple in Tibet. It also features a unique Tibetan alcohol culture. There is a stall selling alcohol at the entrance of the main hall, and visitors often buy alcohol to offer to the wealth goddess of the temple.
Founded in 1416 AD by Jamyang Chojey-Tashi Palden, a disciple of Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug school. It is located just about 10 kilometers from Lhasa city. Before liberation, it was the largest monastery in Tibetan Buddhism.
