Labrang monastery

The Labrang monastery in the city of Xiahe (Gansu province), is one of the most significant Tibetan Buddhist monasteries outside Tibet. Founded in 1709 by the esteemed Gelugpa Lama, Ngawang Tsöndru, it has long been a centre of religious, cultural, and academic life for Tibetans in the region. The monastery is renowned for its deep connection to Tibetan Buddhism, particularly the Gelug (Yellow Hat) tradition, established by the renowned Lama Tsongkhapa in the 14th century.
Labrang is not only a religious hub but also a centre for Tibetan scholarship, housing a large number of monks who engage in rigorous study and debate in subjects such as philosophy, scripture, and logic. The monastery complex includes temples, sacred shrines, living quarters, and an extensive library containing a vast collection of Tibetan Buddhist texts. It is also home to several important annual festivals, notably the Losar (Tibetan New Year) celebrations.
Over the centuries, Labrang Monastery has played a primary role in preserving Tibetan culture and religious practices. Nowadays the Labrang Monastery attracts a large number of tourists and pilgrims from all over China.
How to get to the Labrang monastery
The closest airport is in Gannan, about 70km by car.
Accommodation
There are many hotels in Xiahe, bookable via hotel booking portals.