Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Gyüme was founded in the mid-15th century as one of Tibet's foremost Tantric training
colleges, second only in Lhasa to the monasteries of Sera and Drepung. More than 500
monks were once in residence, and students of the college underwent a physically and in-
tellectually gruelling course of study. It's easy to miss the surprisingly impressive temple;
look for an imposing entrance set back from Beijing Donglu.
The main
dukhang
has statues of Tsongkhapa, Chenresig and Sakyamuni. Look for the
monks' alms bowls encased in crafted leather, hanging from the pillars. Behind are huge
two-storey statues of Tsongkhapa and his two main disciples, and next door is a fearsome
statue of Dorje Jigje (Yamantaka). Upstairs is a famous speaking rock image of Drölma.
The college was desecrated during the Cultural Revolution, but a growing number of
monks are now in residence.
Meru Sarpa Monastery
BUDDHIST, MONASTERY
The traditional wood-block printing press in the middle of this traditional housing com-
pound doesn't really welcome visitors, so head instead to the atmospheric chapel in the
northwest corner. Look for the statue of thousand-armed Chenresig, an unusual 'frog-faced'
Palden Lhamo and the preserved jaws of a crocodile-like gharial. It's about 50m east of the
Gyüme Tratsang.
