Labrang Monastery

Why Labrang Monastery is special
The Labrang Monastery is a large, sprawling Buddhist complex of significant importance. It is second in size only to the Potala Palace monastery (a Hillman Gold Medal winner) in Lhasa, Tibet.

From the tourist's perspective, the Labrang Monastery ranks high on the scale in ambiance. There is much to explore including interesting halls and temples - and a worthy museum exhibiting statues and relics.

Labrang Monastery tips and insights
How to pronounce
Labrang: lah-brah'ng

Monk population
Over 4,000 monks once inhabited Labrang (today the count is several hundred).

Mesmerizing experience
Don't miss in Labrang the early morning gathering of the monks at the steps of the main hall. They collectively chant as they wait for the prayer building to open its doors.

Festivals
The most interesting periods to visit Labrang are during one of its annual festivals. By far the best event is Monlam, the Great Prayer Festival. It takes place sometime from February to early March (the exact dates vary because they are based on the Tibetan lunar calendar).

1709
The Labrang Monastery dates back to the year 1709.

Colleges
The monastery has six highly respected Buddhist colleges, each with a special focus (including medicine).

Writings
Labrang houses 60,000 Buddhist sutras and learned books.

Setting
Labrang Monastery is on the north eastern edge of the vast Tibetan Plateau. It sits approximately 3,000 meters (about 10,000 feet) above sea level.

Surrounding pathway
Labrang is ringed with a 3 kilometer (2 mile) long covered pathway outfitted with prayer wheels (which pilgrims spin as they walk the circuit).

Labrang's other name
The Monastery is sometimes referred to as the Labuling Monastery.

Nearest town and city
Labrang Monastery is just outside Xiahe, a small town that is a five hour drive from Lanzhou city, the capital of Gansu province.