Sera Monastery
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Remarkable Engagement at Sera Monastery
Sera Monastery, founded in 1419, is a significant Tibetan Buddhist site just north of Lhasa. Did you know that it hosts unique debates among monks?
This monastery, established by Jamchen Chojey, was one of Lhasa's two Great Gelugpa monasteries with an original monk population of around 5,000. Currently, about 600 monks reside here. The site features exquisite prayer halls, chapels, and a serene 28-acre landscape.
Noteworthy Attractions
🗣️ Monk Debates: Witness the daily debates among monks from 3 PM to 5 PM in an outdoor garden.
🎨 Art and Architecture: Explore the intricate designs and valuable artwork within the prayer halls.
🚶 Pilgrim Circuit: Enjoy the hour-long kora around the monastery’s perimeter.
Accessibility is easy, with no entry fee required, making it ideal for tourists, families, and historians.
Interesting Facts about Natural History Museum Sera Monastery
Historical Foundation
Founded in 1419 by Jamchen Chojey, a disciple of Tsongkhapa.
Debate Tradition
Famous for its monk debating sessions that take place most afternoons.
Monk Population
Originally housed around 5,000 monks, now around 600 are in residence.
Location Details
Located approximately 5km north of Lhasa and 6km northeast of Potala Palace.
Location
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Address
View mapChéngguān
Opening Hours
Friday:
9:00 AM–6:00 PM
Monday:
9:00 AM–6:00 PM
Saturday:
9:00 AM–6:00 PM
Sunday:
9:00 AM–6:00 PM
Thursday:
9:00 AM–6:00 PM
Tuesday:
9:00 AM–6:00 PM
Wednesday:
9:00 AM–6:00 PM
Contact Information
Price
Free. Donations may be accepted.
Average Visit Duration
Duration: Approximately 2 hours.
Best Time to Visit
Weekday afternoons (3:00 PM–5:00 PM) for monk debates.