Samye Monastery


Built in the 8th century, Samye Monastery was the first Buddhist monastery to be founded in Tibet.
It is also notable as the site of the "Great Debate" (792-794) between the Indian Mahayanists and
Chinese Chán (Zen) Buddhists.

Located at the foot of Mt. Hepo Ri, on the north bank of the Yarlung Tsangpo River of Zharang
County, Samye Monastery is about 38 kilometers from Tsedang. This is the first monastery in
entire Tibet to be built comprising with the three Buddhist idols, Buddha, Dharma and Sangha.
This monastery is hugely popular with all Buddhist pilgrims from around the world. And the beauty
of its construction beckons tourist who comes to Tibet.

The construction of Samye Monastery began in 762 AD and was completed in 779 AD. It is the first monastery in Tibet featuring Buddhist, laws and
monks, where the famous debate of the doctrines between ancient Indian Buddhism and inland Buddhism happened. The monastery is modeled
on the Odantapuri Temple in Bihar, India. After several dynasties' extension, it now covers a large scale of more than 4,900 square meters.

When you start your scintillating journey through the temple and come across the Wuzi hall, you'll come to know why this monastery is called the
'Three Styled Temple'. The hall is divided into three layers, all with different styles, the lowest in Tibetan style, middle one in Han style and the
topmost in Indian style. On the middle layer of hall, Historical records of Tibet are inscribed on the walls which contains the religious history of
Tibet. There are many captivating murals that are hanging on the wall that show the history of Samye monastery apart from the biography of the
legendary master Padmasambhava. Also look at a pair of spectacular lion sculpture and the first bell made in the history of Tibet.

Samye is famous for its sacred mandala design: the central temple symbolizes the legendary Mount Meru,
center of the universe. It is a popular pilgrimage destination for Tibetan Buddhists, some of whom travel on
foot for weeks to reach it.

In the monastery there is a pair of white marble statues, their shapes are simple and with a carving style of
Tang Dynasty. They are the most precious remaining stone sculptures in the monastery. Besides, there is
a rare bronze bell with ancient Tibetan script on it. According to the record, this is the first bell cast in Tibet.