It's a one to two hour drive through stunning landscapes to Ganden Monastery which lies 40 kilometres north-east of Lhasa. The views are postcard-pretty - turquoise rivers, Himalayan peaks and yellow-green autumnal trees. The drive up to the moanstery involves half an hour of switch-backing along a steep mountain road. The nun we have picked up along the way asks us to stop so she can be sick.
Ganden Monastery lies at 4500 metres on a hillside overlooking the dramatic Kyi-Chi Valley. It was the first Gelugpa monastery and has been the main seat of this order ever since. Founded in 1409 Ganden means 'joyous' in Tibetan. Of all the great monasteries it suffered the most at the hands of the Red Guards.
The chapels are similar to other monasteries. The most impressive thing about Ganden is it's stunning location. There are 360 degree views of the valley and the Himalayans. I feel I'm on the roof of the world.
1 comment:
Maria, I can't believe you are still on the road. When are you back?
Happy New Year
Rgds
Paul S
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