Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Hardong served as a residence for monks studying at Sera Je College. At the entry of the
chapel look for three photos of Ekai Kawaguchi, the Japanese monk who studied here in
disguise in 1901.
As you walk downhill, note the wonderful
rock paintings
depicting Jampelyang, Chen-
resig, Chana Dorje (Vajrapani) and Green Tara.
Main Assembly Hall
BUDDHIST, CHAPEL
The main assembly hall, or Tsogchen, is the largest of Sera's buildings and dates back to
1710. The central hall is particularly impressive and is noted for its wall-length thangkas
and two-storey statue of Jampa. He is surrounded by other figures, including Dalai Lamas
on the right, while to the left is the large throne of the 13th Dalai Lama. Left of the throne
is a figure of Sakya Yeshe. There are some incredibly ornate yak-butter sculptures in this
hall.
Of the three chapels to the rear of the hall, the central is the most important, with its 6m-
high Jampa statue. The statue rises up to the upper floor, where it can also be viewed from
a central chapel.
Also on the upper floor (to the far left of the central chapel) is a highly revered statue of
a thousand-armed Chenresig. Pilgrims put their forehead to a walking stick that connects
them directly and literally to the heart of compassion. The pilgrim path enters the building
from the back so this may be the first chapel you come across, before descending to the
prayer hall.
gchen is worth a visit.
Printing Press
BUDDHIST, CHAPEL
Before leaving the monastery it's worth having a look at the printing blocks in this new
hall. Photos are ¥5. Prints made on site are for sale (¥25). A small building to the side
