Tsurphu Monastery

 

Fast Facts About Tsurphu Monastery 

Founded: 1189 by 1st Karmapa Düsum Khyenpa 
Location: Tolung Valley, Doilungdêqên District, 70km northwest of Lhasa, Tibet
Elevation: Approximately 4,300 meters (14,100 ft) above sea level
Current monks: 300+ (historically 1,000)
Sect of Buddhism: Karma Kagyu (one of the four major schools of Tibetan Buddhism)
Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn (May–October)

History and Role of Tsurphu Monastery

Tsurphu Monastery was founded in 12th century by Düsum Khyenpa, the First Karmapa. It later became the main seat of the Karmapas, the spiritual leaders of the Karma Kagyu lineage—one of the major schools of Tibetan Buddhism.

Over the centuries, the monastery has been rebuilt and restored multiple times, reflecting Tibet’s turbulent history. Today, it remains an active religious center, where monks continue their daily rituals, prayers, and studies.

What makes Tsurphu especially significant is its connection to the reincarnation tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. The Karmapa lineage first established the reincarnation system, in which each successive leader is recognized as the rebirth of the previous one. This system later became widely adopted across the Tibetan Plateau by other Buddhism sects, shaping a defining feature of Tibetan religious life.

Highlights of Tsurphu Monastery

Jiangpu Temple Monument

In front of the monastery’s gate is a large square with an area of 1520 square meters. There stands a stela which is the Jiangpu Temple Monument in the center of the square. At the beginning of the ninth century, the Temple of Jiangpu constructed by a powerful minister of Tubo Dynasty has been damaged when Randama quenching Buddhism while the stela was completely preserved fortunately and been moved to Tsurphu Monastery. 

The monument is about two and a half meters in height and half a meter in width with ancient Tibetan languages engraved on it. This precious cultural relic later became an evidence of the ancient history of Tsurphu Monastery and an indispensable historical data on the study of the politics, economy, religion and culture during the Tubo period. 

Dukhang Hall (Assembly Hall)

The large scale architectural complex of Tsurphu Monastery takes the Dukhang hall as the center of entire temple, including the scripture hall, prayer room, Dharma hall, Buddha institute, Practice Tantra Institute, private room for living Buddha and monks’ residence. Here are some of its key highlights:

The silver statue that was sculpted by the eighth Karmapa in honor of his master has long been reputed as the treasure of Tsurphu Monastery. As per Tibetan legends, after its completion of this statue, it actually suspended in the air for seven days without any man-made forces. Thereupon, this statue got a reputation of “Buddha in suspended residence”. 

The hall also preserves several other culturally significant relics and symbolic features. These include massive statues of Shakyamuni Buddha, Amitabha Buddha, vivid Sixteen Arhats wall paintings, as well as a one-story-high reliquary stupa of 16th Karmapa, made of gold and brass.

Vajra Dance Performance

Tsurphu Monastery hosts a Vajra dance ritual as one of the main events of its religious festival, with just two opportunities each year to witness it. The Vajra dance, also known as Cham dance in Tibet, is a traditional sacred ritual performed by Tibetan Buddhist monks. During the performance, monks wear masks, long robes, and colorful ornaments, sometimes carrying ritual objects such as swords and shields, depending on the specific dance.

The ritual is accompanied by traditional instruments, including yak-skin drums, long horns, and suona (a type of double-reed horn). The Cham dance at Tsurphu Monastery has a history of nearly a thousand years. The 2 key performance dates are below:

29th day of the 12th month in the Tibetan calendar
This is the main viewing date, known as Guthuk or Gutor. It is Tibet's traditional New Year's Eve festival celebrated on the 29th day of the 12th Tibetan lunar month, just before Losar (Tibetan New Year). Guthuk literally means "banishing evil spirits," focusing on purification rituals to expel negativity from the old year and to pray for blessings in future lives.

10th day of the 4th month in the Tibetan calendar
According to legend, the 10th day of the fourth month in the Tibetan calendar marks the day when Guru Padmasambhava arrived in Tibet from India to spread Buddhist teachings. On this occasion, Tsurphu Monastery holds a Cham dance ritual in honor of this important figure in Tibetan Buddhism. The ritual is also performed to dispel negative forces.

Note: These dates follow the Tibetan calendar, so the corresponding Gregorian dates change every year. For example, in 2026, the 29th day of the 12th Tibetan month falls on February 16. It is highly recommended to confirm the exact date before planning your trip.

Thangka Unveiling Ceremony

One of the most striking experiences at Tsurphu Monastery is its annual “unfolding of the Buddha” ceremony, a sacred ritual that draws both pilgrims and curious visitors. This event usually takes place during Saga Dawa festival on 11th day of the 4th month in the Tibetan calendar, when a giant thangka (a traditional Buddhist painting of the Buddha) is carefully unfurled on a hillside or monastery courtyard.

The ceremony begins early in the morning. Monks gather in chanting and prayer, building a solemn and spiritual atmosphere. As the massive thangka is slowly unveiled, devotees and visitors alike come together to witness the moment. The image—often depicting Shakyamuni Buddha—can be several stories tall, and seeing it fully displayed against the mountain backdrop is a powerful visual and spiritual highlight.

Gateway to One of Tibet's Best Treks

The monastery is also the starting point for the famous Tsurphu to Yangpachen trek. Typically completed in 4 to 5 days, this route crosses high passes, alpine meadows, and remote nomadic areas, offering a rare chance to experience Tibet’s high-altitude landscapes up close, far from the main tourist paths.

The route eventually descends toward Yangpachen Valley, known for its geothermal activity and sweeping plains. Many trekkers choose to end the journey with a visit to the nearby hot springs, a great way to relax after several days on the trail.

Read the detailed itinerary about this tour: 9 Days Tsurphu-Yangpachen Trekking tour

Practical Tips for Visiting Tsurphu Monastery

1. How to Get to Tsurphu Monastery

The monastery is not located in downtown Lhasa. Most visitors travel by private car or as part of a guided tour, as public transportation options are limited. Once outside the city, the journey becomes especially scenic, with about 22 kilometers passing through wide valleys and open grasslands, offering a glimpse of rural Tibetan life and local villages.

2. Altitude and Acclimatization

Tsurphu Monastery sits at an altitude of over 4,000 meters, so it’s important to give your body time to adjust. We suggest that you spend at least two days in Lhasa first before heading out. Take it slow, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous activity at the beginning of your trip to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

3. Dress Code and Etiquette

As a religious site, modest dress is expected. Try to wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Keep your voice low inside the monastery and follow local customs. When visiting prayer halls, always walk clockwise and be respectful of worshippers and monks.

4. Photography Guidelines

Photography is usually allowed in outdoor areas, but restrictions may apply inside certain halls. Always look for signs or ask for permission before taking photos, especially in sacred spaces. Being respectful in this regard helps preserve the monastery’s atmosphere.

5. Additional Information

Opening Hours: 09:00--18:00
Visit Duration: Half a day
Admission Fee: CNY 45