The Drepung and Sera Monastery Lhasa Day Tour is a great way to spend one meaningful day in Lhasa and learn about Tibetan Buddhism. They are the two of the most important Gelugpa university monasteries in Tibet and popular among travelers from all over the world. This day trip takes about 9 hours. We begin our day by visiting Drepung Monastery in the morning, where we will explore the caves, temples, and pagodas there. In the afternoon, we will visit Sera Monastery where we will observe the famous monk debate session. In a word, the Drepung and Sera Monastery Lhasa Day Tour gives you a wonderful opportunity to witness the splendid religious life and customs of the pious Tibetan people.

Drepung Monastery

A quiet and intimate attraction outside Lhasa, Drepung monastery was founded in 1416. It sits at the foot of Mount Gephel on the western outskirts of Lhasa. Once Tibet’s largest and most influential monastery, it houses around 700 monks in the monastery today and receives thousands of visitors from around the world.

The monastery is famous for its large white pagodas and typical Tibetan monastic architecture. It also hosts a prominent annual celebration of Tibetan Shoton Festival. During the holiday, you will see a giant Thangka painting on the hillside opposite to the Monastery. Thousands of worshippers come to gather at the event every year. In addition, the views from the monastery are also very stunning. Travelers can see local people walk up and down the narrow alleys between the picturesque Tibetan villages.

Sera Monastery

Founded in 1419 by Jamchen Chojey of Sakya Yeshe, a disciple of Tsongkhapa, Sera Monastery sits at the foot of Tatipu Hill in the northern suburb of Lhasa. The monastery consists of the Great Assembly Hall, dwellings, and three monastic colleges. It is especially famous for the unique Buddhist activity “Monk Debate” that takes place in the afternoon. Between 3pm and 5pm from Monday to Saturday, the monks gather together and challenge each other on matters of philosophy. It is one of the most extraordinary sights you can expect among all your Tibetan monastery visits.

You will especially enjoy the company of our local Tibetan English guide on this tour. Book now and receive more great services that we offer.