Natang Monastery: Tibet's Scripture Printing Hub
This modest-sized monastery may not boast the grandeur of Shigatse's iconic Tashilhunpo Monastery, but it holds a special place in Tibet's history: it predates its famous neighbor by a full 400 years. As a key site of the Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism, Natang Monastery has earned it the respectable title "The Library of Tibet" among locals and scholars alike.
What Natang lacks in physical size, it more than makes up for in historical weight. For centuries, it has been affectionately known as "The Library of Tibet." This isn't just a poetic nickname. Within its halls, you can feel the quiet resonance of centuries of study. Many renowned scholars began their spiritual journeys right here. This tradition of deep learning and preservation is the monastery's true foundation, setting the stage for its most astonishing contribution to the world.
Where Words Were Given Immortal Form: The Printing House
Now, here is where the story of Natang becomes truly remarkable. Its most celebrated treasure isn't a golden statue, but something that revolutionized the spread of knowledge across the Himalayas: one of Tibet's oldest and most important scripture printing houses. Established in 1730 by the local Tibetan government, the printing house was a monumental, decades-long undertaking to preserve the entire canon of Tibetan scriptures and ancient texts. Think of the dedication: master calligraphers meticulously handwriting each page, skilled carvers transferring those words onto wooden blocks with breathtaking precision, and teams of printers working in unison. This workshop became a university for printing itself, training generations of artisans. Its output in scale and significance even surpassed the later printing house of the Potala Palace. To stand in this space is to stand at the very birthplace of Tibetan printed wisdom, where sacred words were painstakingly carved and inked to ensure they would last forever.
Conclusion
Throughout its long history, Natang Monastery has been a magnet for some of Tibet's most revered Buddhist masters, shaping its spiritual legacy. Among its distinguished residents was Qinmu Langgazha, the chief master of Chogyal Phakpa—a pivotal figure in Tibetan history who played a key role in spreading Buddhism across the region. Walking through the monastery's courtyards and halls, you can almost feel the presence of these spiritual leaders, and the quiet atmosphere invites reflection on the deep wisdom that has been passed down here for centuries.
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35 Comment ON "Natang Monastery: Tibet's Scripture Printing Hub"
Asked by Liliana Me** from Macau
plan a 7-8days trip for me and my boyfriend in April
Hi! I would like to plan a 7-8days trip for me and my boyfriend in April (3rd to 10th ideally) to Nepal, Tibet, and, if possible, Bhutan. Do you think it would be doable? Based on what I read, there are some places/things to do to consider: Nepal: Everest Base Camp trek and the Annapurna Circuit, ancient temples, sacred sites like Lumbini, Kathmandu, Tibet: The Potala Palace in Lhasa and the Jokhang Temple. eventually the holy Mount Kailash or the high-altitude plains. Bhutan: Thimphu, Paro, and the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery. To take part in cultural traditions, yoga, meditation... Of course I am open to any recommendations you could make. For your reference, we are both based in Asia: him, in Bangkok and myself in Macau. Thank you so much for the information you could provide and, if possible, an estimated budget for your offer.
Asked by Ke** from Singapore
Cycling Tour to Mt Kailash
Hi , we are planning a Cycling Trip once Tibet opens for Tourism. The plan is we shall arrive to Kathmandu , travel to the border and enter via Kerung. Can you pls send a day to day Itinerary starting from Kerung - Lake Manasarovar - Darchen - Asthapath. We shall go around Kailash on foot and resume Cycling back to Kerung. We are a Group of 6-8 persons. Thanks Pls send ur reply to Kevin
Asked by Debo** from USA
Please can you tell me the prices and dates for the Tibet Luxury Tour.
Also, could you please provide a detailed itinerary - I want to see how many hours are spent on buses/vehicles. Thank you! Deborah
Asked by S** from HongKong
Tibet Tour from HK
May I know if holding Mainland Travel Permit for HK Residents. is it also need to get the visa permit to Tibet and what is the procedure if need to apply? Thank you
Asked by Na** from USA
Is Kailash Mansarovar Trip open for Indian Passport Holder?
Is it open for Indian Passport Holder?
Asked by A** from Singapore
Enquiry on private tour
We are planning a trip from Hong Kong to Tibet during the 12th to 21st of April. We want a private tour that covers all the scenic places as well as the EBC. Please advise an itinerary along with the cost breakdown. Thanks.
Asked by Na** from Canada
We would like to take the train from Xining to Lhasa
Asked by Gr** from Canada
The "Tibet Entry Permit" should be apply
Asked by Tam** from Singapore
Sightseeing Potala Palace
Asked by Ka** from Singapore
plan to travel to Mount Kailash