Monasteries of Dolpo Region

The Spiritual Heart of Upper Dolpo

Perched near the sacred Crystal Mountain, Shey Gompa stands as the revered spiritual center of Upper Dolpo. Known as the 'Crystal Monastery,' this ancient complex was established in the 11th century and serves as the beating heart of Buddhist spirituality in the region. The monastery's two-story structure, adorned with ancient murals of Buddhist deities, reflects classic Tibetan architecture that has withstood centuries of harsh Himalayan conditions. Every twelve years, the spectacular Shey Mela festival transforms this sacred space into a vibrant celebration, symbolizing the victory over evil spirits and drawing devoted pilgrims from across the Himalayas who journey through treacherous mountain passes to witness this rare spiritual gathering. Nestled near the sacred Crystal Mountain, Shey Gompa isn't just one monastery — it's a cluster of three spiritual gems, each radiating ancient wisdom and serene energy.

Sacred Lookout Above Bhijer Village

Perched majestically high above the picturesque Bhijer Village, Samling Gompa stands proudly as one of Dolpo's most spiritually significant and historically important Bon institutions, having been founded over eight centuries ago by the great and revered Dzogchen master Tangton Gyaltzen Rinchen. For countless generations, this remarkable monastery has served as a vital center of profound learning in the sacred arts of Sutra, Tantra, and the highest teachings of Dzogchen, drawing devoted seekers and accomplished practitioners from across the vast Himalayan region who come to study under its learned masters. Inside this ancient sanctuary, visitors can discover an extraordinary treasure house of spiritual artifacts including precious ancient thangkas, weathered murals that tell stories of enlightened beings, sacred relics blessed by generations of masters, and a particularly striking statue of Guru Rinpoche that radiates profound spiritual power. The monastery's dramatic elevated setting offers visitors sweeping, breathtaking views of the Himalayan landscape, making the entire spiritual journey to this sacred place as visually stunning and inspiring as the profound spiritual destination itself.

Ancient Nyingma Sanctuary of Saldang

Founded over five centuries ago in the heart of Saldang village, Samye Choling Monastery represents one of the most significant and beautifully preserved examples of the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism in the entire Dolpo region. This sacred sanctuary welcomes visitors into a world of profound spiritual beauty, where they can discover an extraordinary collection of sacred statues including the past Buddha Dipankar, the historical Shakyamuni Buddha, and the future Buddha Maitreya, with the beloved Guru Rinpoche holding the place of honor at the very heart of the shrine. The monastery's serene and peaceful atmosphere is further enhanced by its remarkable walk-through stupa and traditional prayer wheel, creating a harmonious environment that serves as a perfect haven for meditation, reflection, and spiritual renewal for both devoted monks and visiting seekers from around the world.

Temple of the Future Buddha

Standing majestically in Tokyu village, the revered Champa Monastery holds the distinguished honor of being dedicated to Maitreya, the Future Buddha, creating a sacred space where devotees can connect with the promise of enlightenment yet to come. This remarkable Nyingma-pa monastery carries within its walls both profound historical significance and captivating legend, having been originally lost to the passage of time before being lovingly restored in the 15th century by the powerful and benevolent King of Mustang. Perhaps most fascinating of all is the monastery's legendary tale of its master builder, who according to local tradition rode a mysterious blue, hornless yak across impossible terrain to gather the rare and sacred plaster needed for the monastery's construction. Inside this awe-inspiring temple, visitors discover a towering statue of Maitreya that dominates the sacred space, surrounded by the enlightened presence of Dipankara, Shakyamuni, Avalokiteshvara, and Guru Rinpoche, while fierce protector deities stand guard and sacred texts preserve ancient wisdom. Outside, three striking white chortens greet pilgrims and trekkers alike, offering both an awe-inspiring architectural presence and a profound spiritual connection to Dolpo's rich Buddhist heritage.

A Bon Sanctuary of Dho Tarap

Founded eight centuries ago by the revered master Triten Chime and later rebuilt five hundred years ago, Sipchok Monastery stands proudly as one of Dolpo's oldest and most significant Bon institutions, continuing to serve as a sacred guardian of Tibet's ancient and indigenous spiritual traditions that predate the arrival of Buddhism in the region. This remarkable sanctuary houses an absolutely extraordinary collection of spiritual treasures, including an astounding 1,000 Buddha images that create a powerful field of enlightened presence, rare and precious scriptures such as the revered 'Magnificent Pure Teaching,' intricate and colorful mandalas that serve as windows into spiritual realms, and guardian deities painted across the monastery's walls with such skill and devotion that they seem to pulse with protective energy. Outside this sacred complex, an impressive arc of 15 ancient chortens stands alongside one solitary stupa, creating a striking and memorable presence in the peaceful meadows that surround the monastery. The halls of Sipchok come alive with the sounds and energy of sacred ceremonies featuring traditional ceremonial masks, resonant drums, and profound rituals that continue to serve and uplift the local villagers while offering visitors a rare and authentic glimpse into Bon culture and a living experience of one of Tibet's most ancient and enduring spiritual paths.