Qiangbalin Monastery

Historical Overview
The monastery’s name derives from Tibetan Buddhism: "Qiangba" refers to Maitreya Buddha, and "Lin" means "forest," symbolizing its role as a spiritual sanctuary. It was established by Jamyang Chokyi Gyaltsen, a student of Tsongkhapa, to propagate Gelugpa teachings. During the 17th century, it became a key stop on the Kora pilgrimage circuit. The monastery survived the Cultural Revolution with minimal damage, thanks to local protection efforts. In 2010, a major restoration uncovered 15th-century murals beneath later layers, offering insights into early Tibetan art.

Structural Layout
The monastery’s design follows traditional Tibetan Buddhist principles:

• Main Prayer Hall (Dukhang): The largest structure, housing the Maitreya statue and surrounded by 108 smaller chapels.
• Kora Path: A clockwise circumambulation route around the monastery, lined with prayer wheels and mani stones.
• Monks’ Quarters: Four-story buildings with carved wooden balconies, housing resident lamas.
  Key landmarks include the Silver Stupa (containing relics of Jamyang Chokyi Gyaltsen) and the Debating Courtyard, where monks engage in philosophical discourse.

Major Attractions

1. Maitreya Buddha Hall: The 30-meter gilded statue, flanked by 1,000 smaller Buddhas.
2. Silver Stupa: A 12-meter stupa adorned with silver and precious stones.
3. Thangka Gallery: Displays rare 15th-century silk thangkas depicting Tsongkhapa’s life.
4. Debating Courtyard: Witness monastic debates daily at 2 PM.
5. Medicine Buddha Chapel: Houses ancient medicinal texts and herbal remedies.

Suggested Itineraries

1. Classic Route (2–3 hours):
   Entrance → Maitreya Buddha Hall → Silver Stupa → Thangka Gallery → Kora Path → Exit
   Highlights: Core statues, stupas, and pilgrimage route.
2. Spiritual Route (4–5 hours):
   Entrance → Debating Courtyard → Medicine Buddha Chapel → Monks’ Quarters → Exit
   Highlights: Monastic life, debates, and healing traditions.
3. Comprehensive Route (Full Day):
   Entrance → Dawn Prayers → Maitreya Hall Teachings → Kora Trek → Sunset at Silver Stupa → Exit
   Highlights: Rituals, teachings, and sacred geography.

Ticket Purchase

• Online: Book via Ctrip or Mafengwo (tickets.tibet.cn) up to 7 days in advance.
• On-Site: Tickets sold at the entrance; queues peak 10–11 AM.
• Prices:
  • Peak Season (April–October): ¥80 (adults), ¥40 (students/seniors).
  • Off-Season (November–March): ¥60 (adults), ¥30 (students/seniors).
  • Free: Children under 1.2m, disabled visitors, and military personnel.

Transportation

• From Lhasa:
  • Bus: 10-hour ride to Qamdo (¥250–350), then taxi (¥30–50) to the monastery.
  • Charter: ¥1,200–1,500/day for private cars with drivers.
• Self-Drive: Follow G318 National Highway to Qamdo, then provincial roads to the monastery.

Best Time & Tips

• Peak Seasons: May–June (Saga Dawa Festival), September–October (clear skies).
• Avoid Crowds: Visit early (7–8 AM) or after 4 PM; weekdays are quieter.
• Essentials:
  • Dress modestly (cover shoulders/knees); remove hats indoors.
  • Bring sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and Tibetan currency (CNY accepted).
  • Respect rituals: Walk clockwise around stupas, remain silent during debates.
  • Prohibited: Smoking, alcohol, and touching religious objects.