Labrang

The World's Largest Institute of Tibetology

1.Located in Xiahe: County, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, along the banks of the Daxia River, Labrang Monastery is one of the six great monasteries of the Gelug (Yellow Hat) school of Tibetan Buddhism. Often referred to as the "World's Largest Institute of Tibetology" and the "Oriental Vatican," it serves as the spiritual and cultural heart of the Amdo Tibetan region. The monastery complex is a majestic tapestry of golden roofs, red walls, and thousands of monk cells nestled against the mountains, creating a stunning contrast with the surrounding alpine grasslands and snow-capped peaks. Covering a vast area, it is not merely a temple but a comprehensive university town dedicated to the preservation and study of Tibetan culture and Buddhism,.

A Center of Learning and History

Founded in 1709 (the 48th year of the Kangxi reign) by the First Jamyang Zhépa, E'ang Zongzhe, the monastery has grown over three centuries into a massive architectural complex. It is home to six major colleges (Institutes): the College of Esoteric Buddhism (Lower and Upper Tantra), the Hevajra College, the College of Medicine, the College of Astrology and Astronomy, and the largest of all, the Wensi College (Institute of Buddhist Philosophy). The monastery preserves a complete and rigorous system of academic degrees, making it a premier destination for monks seeking higher education in Buddhist logic, medicine, and arts. The monastery also houses the "Jamyang Living Buddha" lineage, the highest ranking spiritual leader in the region,.

The Longest Prayer Wheel Corridor

2.One of the most iconic features of Labrang: Monastery is the world's longest corridor of prayer wheels. Stretching approximately 3.5 kilometers around the perimeter of the monastery complex, this wooden colonnade contains over 1,700 large spinning cylinders filled with scriptures. Pilgrims walk clockwise along this path, spinning each wheel to accrue merit and pray for blessings. Walking this "Kora" alongside devout believers offers visitors a profound insight into the spiritual devotion that permeates daily life in Gannan,.

Architectural Highlights and Rituals

• 3.The Gongtang Pagoda: A magnificent gold-topped stupa that visitors can climb. From the top, one can enjoy a panoramic view of the entire monastery complex and the sprawling Xiahe valley.
• 4.The Debate Courtyard: Located within the Wensi College, this is where monks gather in the afternoons to debate Buddhist scriptures. The atmosphere is electric, with monks clapping hands and stomping feet to emphasize their logical points, a unique tradition of the Gelug school,.
• 5.Festivals: The monastery is famous for its grand religious ceremonies, particularly the Great Prayer Festival (Monlam) held in the first lunar month. Highlights include the "Sunning of the Buddha" (unveiling a giant Thangka on the hillside) and the display of intricate yak butter sculptures,.