Shalu Monastery

Fast Fact:

Founder: Chetsun Sherab Jungnay

Founded: In 1040

Location: Shigatse

Elevation:3890M

Main attraction: Ancient murals

Shalu Monastery is among the most ancient Tibetan Monasteries. It belongs to the Buton School of Tibetan Buddhism, which is a sub-order of the Sakya sect. This monastery retains an ancient Chinese architectural style and features genuine ancient murals on its walls. It is an ideal destination for deepening one’s understanding of Tibetan art, religion, and history.

Shalu Monastery is situated approximately 20 kilometers southeast of Shigatse and 69 kilometers from Gyantse. Thus, the optimal way to visit this monastery is to commence the journey either from Gyantse or Shigatse.

Some of the notable attractions of the monastery are as follows:

Gyengong Lhakhang

The principal image in the chapel is Dorje Rabtenma, a manifestation of the protectress Shridevi. This Lhakhang was constructed by Loton Dorje Wangchuk, a disciple of Lachen Gongpa Rabsel, who was the teacher of Jetsun Sherab Jungnay.

Shalu Monastery Complex

The monastery complex was designed in a Chinese architectural style. Although it endured significant damage during an earthquake in the 14th century and was subsequently reconstructed by Chinese artisans, it also suffered extensive harm during the Cultural Revolution in Tibet.

Serkhang Temple

This temple is located within Shalu village and was initially erected by Chetsun Sherab Jungnay in 1040. After being severely damaged by an earthquake in the 14th century, the temple was renovated in 1333 by Gonpopel, Drakpa Gyeltsen, and Buton Rinchendrub with the assistance of the Mongolian emperor Oljadu.

Ground Floor

The monastery consists of 3 floors. The main assembly hall of the monastery is on the ground floor, where there are several chapels housing a naturally formed statue of Chenresig, the Buddha of Compassion, as well as ancient murals.

Inside the assembly hall, pilgrims can perform the kora and observe numerous ancient murals on the walls.

Upper Floor

There are three chapels on the upper floor, and most of these chapels are adorned with ancient murals and Thankas on the walls. On this floor, there is a stupa that contains the relics of Atisha and Buton Rinchendrup.

While this monastery may not enjoy the same level of extensive development as certain other well-known Tibetan monasteries in Tibet, journeying to such small and remotely situated ones like it can bestow upon you truly profound and unadulterated spiritual encounters.

 

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