Tradruk Monastery
Tradruk monastery is one of Tibet’s earliest Buddhist temples, it was constructed in 7th century during Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo.
Overview
Tradruk monastery estled 7 km from Tsedang on the Yarlung River’s east bank and close to Yumbu Lhakhang, this monastery is one of Tibet’s earliest Buddhist temples, built in the 7th century by King Songtsen Gampo, around the same time as Lhasa’s Jokhang Temple.
Its name comes from a legend: Songtsen Gampo’s falcon ('tra') defeated a dragon ('druk') here, and it’s a key geomantic temple, said to stand on the left shoulder of the ogress symbolizing Tibet’s terrain, with Jokhang at her heart. A Gelugpa school site, it was once one of Tibet’s three royal temples with Jokhang and Samye Monastery.
History & Architecture
The small original temple was expanded by King Trisong Detsen, the 5th and 7th Dalai Lamas— the 5th added a glorious golden roof. Damaged under Langdarma, it was restored in 1351, growing to 21 temples by the 18th century.
After Cultural Revolution damage, it was fully rebuilt and consecrated in 1988, now a two-floor complex with a main hall, dozens of chapels, stunning ground-floor murals and 12 chapels around the central Tsuklakhang (same as Jokhang’s layout). Neten Lhakhang, near the entrance, is where Songtsen Gampo stayed during construction; the lost Yarlung bronze bell here is one of Tibet’s three ancient bells, with the other two in Jokhang and Samye.
Sacred Treasures
Its most precious treasure is the 7th-century pearl Thangka of Avalokiteshvara on the second floor crafted with 29,026 pearls, diamonds, rubies, turquoise, coral and gold. Beside it is a silk Thangka of Shakyamuni Buddha with delicate weaving and eight auspicious symbols around the Buddha.
Dolma Lhakhang holds the revered "Speaking Tara" statue, a replica with ancient relics inside, plus the Five Dhyani Buddhas with original fragments.
Experience
Today, Tradruk is a beloved spot for global travelers, and local livelihoods thrive on tourism—incense sellers and pilgrims gather at the gate, blending ancient faith with vibrant local life in Tibet’s cultural heartland.
Plan Your Visit
For detailed information about Tradruk 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.
