Pelkor Chode Monastery
Pelkor Chode Monastery
Pelkor Chode Monastery was founded in the 14th century. It is the only monastery that does not belong to any sect of Tibetan Buddhism.
Overview
Pelkor Chode Monastery sits quietly in the northeast of Gyantse County, just 100 kilometers east of Shigatse—an easy 1.5-hour drive along the scenic highway. Together with its iconic Kumbum Stupa ("Ten Thousand Buddhas Stupa"), this 14th-century gem wraps history, faith, and natural beauty into one unforgettable Tibetan travel experience and welcoming visitors to step into a world where devotion meets art.
Kumbum Stupa
The first thing that catches your eye is the Kumbum Stupa, a 42.4-meter-tall masterpiece that’s the only Nepalese-style stupa in Tibet. Locals call it "Ten Thousand Buddhas Stupa" because it houses over 100,000 Buddha statues, sculptures, and murals across 77 halls and 108 doorways. Climbing the stupa is a gentle adventure—since the area sits at 4,020 meters above sea level, take your time as you wind clockwise up the whitewashed steps. Each floor reveals new surprises: dimly lit cells with vibrant murals blending Indian, Nepalese, and Chinese art styles, and statues of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas in every pose. The murals here are special painted in soft blues and earthy browns, they tell stories of the Buddha’s life and esoteric teachings, their colors still vivid after centuries. Reach the top, and you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of Gyantse’s old town nestling under the shadow of the historic Dzong Fort, and the meandering Yarlung Tsangpo River glinting in the distance.
Monastery Life
The monastery itself, founded in the 14th century by Prince Kusang Rabten Kunsang Phak, is a rare example of religious harmony. Unlike most Tibetan monasteries that follow a single sect, Pelkor Chode embraces three major schools of Tibetan Buddhism—Gelukpa (Yellow Hat), Sakya, and Buton (Shalu)—each with its own prayer halls. Walk through the main temple, Tsulaklakang, and you’ll feel the warmth of faith in every corner. Colorful silk thangkas of Arhats hang from the pillars, while yak butter lanterns cast a soft glow over the rear hall. At the entrance to the assembly hall, the Gonkhang (protector shrine) stands guard, and deeper inside, a small queue of pilgrims waits patiently to pay respects to the "Talking Tara"—an ancient statue brought from India during the monastery’s founding, cared for by monks who gently guide visitors to worship in the right order. Some walls still bear faint black marks from damage during the Cultural Revolution, a quiet reminder of the monastery’s resilience, while well-preserved 15th-century murals and statues showcase its enduring beauty.
Experience
Pelkor Chode Monastery isn’t just a tourist spot; it’s a living place of faith. Every mural, statue, and prayer flag carries the warmth of human devotion—from the prince who founded it, to the monks who tend to it, to the pilgrims who visit with open hearts. Whether you’re climbing the stupa at sunrise, listening to chants in the assembly hall, or simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere, this sacred site will leave you with memories of Tibet’s beauty and spirituality.
Plan Your Visit
For detailed information about Pelkor Chode Monastery and Tibet tours, feel free to contact us at info@tibetroofofworld.com . Our expert team will help create a memorable Tibet travel experience based on your interests and preferences.
