Yumbu Lakhang
Fast Fact:
Built: In 2nd Century (BCE)
Built: For the first Tibetan King, Nyatri Tsenpo
Location: Tsedang, Nyedong County
Opening Hour: 9:00 to 18:00
Situated in the Yarlung valley of Tsedang, Lokha prefecture within Tibet, the Yumbu Lakhang is not only the first ancient building in Tibet but also served as the palace of the first Tibetan king, Nyatri Tsenpo. This remarkable palace was erected on a mountain named Tashi Mountain.
During the era of the 5th Dalai Lama, it was transformed into a monastery affiliated with the Gelug school, also known as the Gelug Sect. Regrettably, it endured extensive damage and destruction during the upheaval of the Cultural Revolution in Tibet. However, in 1983, painstaking efforts were made to reconstruct it.
The main attractions within the palace complex are the statues of Thiesung Sangye Buddha, King Nyatri, King Songtsen Gampo, and other eminent Tibetan kings.
For those interested in visiting this palace, it is a short 10-kilometer drive from Tsedang. Visitors are required to ascend the mountain from its base. On foot, this typically takes around 20 to 25 minutes. Alternatively, if the climb seems overly strenuous, one can hire horses.
From the summit of the palace, a magnificent panorama unfolds, encompassing the entire expanse of the farmers’ fields in the valley and the charming small town of Nedong.
Taking a brief kora (circumambulation) around the monastery offers an even more vivid and detailed view of the surrounding farms.
During the kora, you will encounter numerous local pilgrims, providing a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in and gain a deeper understanding of their profound spiritual activities.
After concluding your visit to Yumbu Lakhang, it is highly recommended to pay a visit to Trandruk Monastery, which holds the distinction of being the oldest Buddhist monastery in Tibet.
Should you wish to acquire more in-depth knowledge about the monastery or are planning a trip to Tibet, simply send an email to [email protected]. Our team of expert tour consultants will promptly respond with comprehensive and detailed information about the palace and all related aspects.