Narthang Monastery
纳塘寺
An old Kadampa monastery, once famed across Tibet for the Narthang woodblocks of the Buddhist canon. It is an important site in the history of Tibetan printing and is rarely visited.
Narthang Monastery lies about 15 km southwest of downtown Shigatse. It was founded in 1153 and belonged to the Kadampa school, later coming under the Gelug school. In the 18th century, the Narthang blocks of the Kangyur and Tengyur were carved here, rivaling the Derge and Lhasa editions in influence. The monastery was damaged and later partly rebuilt. Surviving structures include the assembly hall, stupas and printing relics. The atmosphere is quiet, suiting travelers interested in the history of Tibetan Buddhism. Admission is minimal or free, depending on local arrangements. Transport: about 30 minutes by chartered car from the city, and it can be combined with Ngor Monastery or a trip toward Sakya.
Opening hours
Open daytime
Nearby sights
- Ngor Monastery
- Dechen Kelsang Phodrang (New Panchen Palace)
- Tashilhunpo Monastery
- Shigatse Dzong (Samdruptse)
- Shigatse Old Town
- Shalu Monastery
- Takten Damcho Ling (Phuntsok Ling)
- Sakya Monastery