Tsurphu Monastery
Fast Fact:
Elevation: 4300 M
Founder: 1st Karmapa Dusum Khyempa
Founded: In 1159
The Principal Attraction: The Statue of the 16th Karmapa
Tsurphu monastery, which is approximately 70 kilometers from Lhasa city, stands as the principal seat of the Karma Kagyu tradition and is home to the Karmapa, the leader of the Karma Kagyu lineage within Tibetan Buddhism. It was erected by the 1st Karmapa in 1189 within a valley called the Tolung valley, encircled by mountains.
As per historical records, during the 1st Karmapa’s initial visit to the site in 1159, he laid the groundwork for the monastery and named it Tsurphu. On his second visit, he established the main seat of the monastery.
Subsequently, the 2nd Karmapa constructed the main assembly hall of the monastery.
The three founders of the Kagyu sects are Marpa, Milarepa, and Gampopa. An additional significant figure in the Kagyu sect is the 1st Karmapa, who was a disciple of Gampopa. He instituted the tradition of Tulku, the renowned reincarnation system in Tibetan Buddhism. At present, the leader of the Kagyu sect is the 17th Karmapa.
The monastery complex houses numerous chapels dedicated to the protectors, along with statues such as Shridevi, Mahakala, and Samaya-bound Vajrasadhu.
Tsurphu monastery is among the most significant monasteries in Tibet. It presents an excellent option for trekking, enabling you to gain a deeper understanding of ancient Tibetan Buddhism.
Tourists visiting Tsurphu monastery have two alternatives. They can either take a one-day tour of the monastery or make a brief stop at the monastery during a day trip to Namtso.
For detailed information about the monastery and monastery-related tours, don’t hesitate to contact us at [email protected] Our expert tour operators will reply with their extensive knowledge and experience in Tibet tours.