Dratang Monastery is a small Sakyapa monastery with 20 Monks. It is located near the Lhasa Gongkar Airport at just 48 Kilometers. The monastery is well known for its Mural. The artistic style of the Mural is considered rare. It combines the Indian Pala Style and Inner Asian style of Western Xia. We will arrange a Touch for travellers to see the Murals.
History of Dratang Monastery
The Dratang Monastery was found in the year 1080 by Drapa Ngoshe. Who helped establish Tibet’s earliest medical canon. The construction of the monastery is completed in 1093 by his Nephews.
In 14-15 Century the Monastery was absorbed into Skayapa sect of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery was damaged by Dzungar Armies in the 18th century, and repaired in 1920 by late Reting Rinpoche. Despite difficulty period, Series of painting, which are unique in Tibet, are preserved on its ground floor. These Murals are a synthesis of Pala Indian style and Central Asian Style.
Tourist Guide to Dratang Monastery
The monastery can be reached on the way from Lhasa to Tsedang in Lhokha Prefecture. At approx 48 Kilometers from the Lhasa Gongkar Airport.
The main temple of the monastery is surrounded by an elliptical wall like the Samye monastery. In the period of history, only one of three concentric walls have survived around the complex.
In the assembly hall, the central statues are of Dorje Chang, to the right is the Drapa Ngoshe, the founder of the monastery. On the left to Dorje chang statue look for oracle costume and mirror. Local pilgrims receive blessing from the Costume and Sword.
The Inner sanctum has all the remains of wall painting; you will find the best at the western wall.
Conclusion
Dratang monastery is not such a popular tourist destination compared with others in the Lhokha Prefecture. For the Thangka artist and artiest as general this monastery is an exciting place to visit.
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