Drak Yerpa: The Hidden Monastery Clinging to Tibet's Cliffs

Just a short day trip from the bustling streets of Lhasa lies one of Tibet's most extraordinary spiritual treasures: Drak Yerpa Monastery. Perched dramatically on cliffs approximately 30 kilometers northeast of Lhasa, this ancient monastery offers a perfect escape for travelers seeking authenticity beyond the usual tourist trail. Unlike the more crowded Potala Palace or Jokhang Temple, Drak Yerpa Monastery provides a more intimate encounter with Tibet's living spiritual traditions, making it an ideal addition to your Tibet tour itinerary.

Setting out from Lhasa and following the winding mountain road, you can finally reach this temple hidden within a mountain cave. Along the way, you'll pass through the Naji Mountain Pass, where prayer flags stretch across the sky—from one mountain peak to another. There are at the very least hundreds, if not thousands, of them, creating a spectacular sight and an incredibly photogenic spot. Against the backdrop of blue skies and white clouds, the flags radiate dazzling brilliance.  

Prayer flags symbolize the rising of fortune and blessings. Here, visitors can take part in hanging them, an act equivalent to making offerings to the deities and praying for good fortune. Each time the wind stirs the flags, it is believed to represent a recitation of the prayers, carrying profound reverence and blessings for life.

A Monastery Built into the Mountains

Drak Yerpa Monastery's uniqueness lies in its very architecture: a breathtaking complex of temples and meditation caves carved directly into—and seemingly defying gravity on—a steep mountain valley cliff.

As you approach, the sight of white-washed structures clinging to the cliffs will leave you wondering where nature ends and human devotion begins. The fusion of architecture and nature creates a spiritual atmosphere that many travelers find to be the highlight of their Tibet travel experience.

Walking in the Footsteps of Saints

Drak Yerpa Monastery's history stretches back an incredible 1,500 years to the 7th century, founded by none other than King Songtsen Gampo for his consort. Over the centuries, this sacred site attracted some of Tibet's most revered spiritual masters. It is said that The great Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche) meditated here, and the Indian master Atisha taught and wrote in these very caves. As you explore, you'll literally be walking paths once trod by saints and scholars. This living connection to Tibet's spiritual heritage is beyond words.

Exploring the Sacred Caves

The traditional pilgrimage route takes you through several remarkable caves, each with its own story. You'll visit the Atisha Cave, where the renowned teacher meditated ; the King's Cave, where Songtsen Gampo himself practiced; and the Moon Cave, associated with Padmasambhava and containing an imprint of his foot. Following the circular path from cave to cave, you'll join generations of pilgrims in this sacred practice.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

Reaching Drak Yerpa involves some uphill walking at high altitude (around 4,000 meters) , so take it slow and enjoy the journey rather than rushing. The climb may challenge your lungs but rewards you with stunning views and genuine spiritual moments. Local pilgrims often start their visit early, and following their lead can give you a more authentic experience. Watching devotees engage in heartfelt prayer at these ancient sites adds a deeply human dimension to your visit that transcends typical sightseeing.

Conclusion

A private, customized tour is the best way to visit Drak Yerpa Monastery, the monastery hidden in caves, as it's typically not included in standard group itineraries.