Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Sights
Shepeling (Simbaling) Monastery
BUDDHIST, MONASTERY
This ruined monastery towers over the town from its dramatic hilltop position. In 1949 the
Swami Pranavananda described this Kagyud monastery, which housed 170 monks, as the
biggest in the region. The monastery's treasures allegedly included one testicle of Indian
invader Zowar Singh, displayed every four years during a festival.
The Chinese army shelled the monastery during the Cultural Revolution and today only
the assembly hall is partially restored. The views south over the valley and north towards a
cave complex are superb but be surreptitious in taking photos. Slogans marked in stones
above the military base praise Chairman Mao and the Chinese Communist Party.
Gokung (Tsegu) Monastery & Caves
BUDDHIST, MONASTERY
In the hills above Purang are many retreat caves formed around the cliffside Gokung
(Tsegu) Monastery. A ladder leads up to a couple of upper-floor cave chapels decorated
with prayer flags and impressive murals.
DANGERS & ANNOYANCES
The hill northwest of town is the site of a huge army base said to extend far into the
mountain in a series of caves. It's even rumoured there are missiles here. Be careful not to
photograph - even inadvertently - this or any of the small compounds in town. It's unlaw-
ful and you or your local guide could get in serious trouble for it.
Sleeping & Eating
There are several hotels in town, but the PSB only allows foreigners to stay in the Peacock
Hotel.
Despite the proximity to Nepal, there's little flavour of the subcontinent in Purang's res-
taurant.
