Yungdrungling Monastery: Tibet's Sacred Bonpo Sanctuary
As you approach Yungdrungling Monastery, you'll notice it sits quietly across the river from the Friendship Highway that connects Lhasa and Shigatse, blending naturally with the rolling hills and the Yarlung Tsangpo's waters nearby. The complex is not as grand or imposing as some Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, but its beauty lies in its simplicity and authenticity.
One of the first things you'll notice here is the anticlockwise swastikas adorning the walls—a symbol deeply rooted in Bonpo tradition, different from the clockwise swastikas often seen in Tibetan Buddhism. This anticlockwise direction runs through every part of life at Yungdrungling, from the way monks and pilgrims circumambulate the monastery to the order in which you should visit its chapels. The monks here are incredibly friendly to visitors, and some can even speak basic English, so don't hesitate to strike up a conversation—they're happy to share stories about their daily lives, their faith, and the monastery's history.
One of the most common questions foreign travelers have is how to reach Yungdrungling Monastery from Shigatse, and the monastery is located approximately 120 kilometers from Shigatse, on the north bank of the Yarlung Tsangpo River in Nanmulin County, and the drive takes about 1 or 2 hours by car.
Conclusion
Yungdrungling Monastery is just the start of the adventures you can have in this part of Shigatse—its surrounding area is filled with hidden gems that complement a visit to the monastery perfectly. One of the closest and most beautiful attractions is the Yarlung Tsangpo River viewpoint, just a short drive from the monastery. Here, you can stand on the riverbank and take in the vast, powerful waters of Tibet's longest river, with snow-capped mountains in the distance—a breathtaking backdrop for photos and quiet reflection. For those interested in more Bonpo culture, the nearby Nanmulin County has several small Bonpo chapels and hermitages that are worth exploring, each with its own unique history and traditions. If you're a nature lover, head to the nearby grasslands, where you can spot Tibetan yaks grazing freely and enjoy the fresh mountain air, far from the hustle of the city. You can also visit local Tibetan villages, where you can meet friendly locals, taste homemade Tibetan milk tea and tsampa, and learn about their daily lives—many villagers are happy to invite visitors into their homes and share their customs. Combining a visit to Yungdrungling Monastery with these nearby attractions creates a perfect day trip or overnight adventure, letting you experience the best of Tibet's spirituality, nature, and local culture all in one go.
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37 Comment ON "Yungdrungling Monastery: Tibet's Sacred Bonpo Sanctuary"
Asked by An** from N/A
Best time to travel for the Linka festival
Hey, I'm looking to travel to the Linka festival with my partner. When is the best time to go this year? Thanks!
Asked by Goldliam Soo** from N/A
lm from nyc in the usa how much is your 13 day Mt Kai lash tour in September or June
Hi, lm from nyc in the usa how much is your 13 day Mt Kai lash tour in September or June? And approximately how much would would the airfare be round trip? Thank you
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