(gdtv.com)

Tashilhunpo Monastery, the home of the Panchen Lama, is located on the hillside overlooking Shigatse northwest of the town. It was established in 1447 by Genden Trup, a disciple of the founder of the Gelugpa Order. Genden Trup was later named the first Dalai Lama. Later, the fifth Dalai Lama named the Abbot of Tashilhunpo as the first Panchen Lama, second only to the Dalai Lama. Ever since then, the title of Panchen Lama has been one and the same with the Abbot of this monastery.

This temple for the most part escaped the ravages of the Cultural Revolution and its chapels contain countless statues and mural decorated halls. Find the Chapel of Maitreya as you enter the Monastery. Inside there is a 26 meter high statue of the Maitreya Buddha which is the largest bronze Buddha statue in the world. Also, the tombs (burial stupas or chorten) of most of the Panchen Lamas are housed in the Monastery. Worthy of note is the Tomb of the tenth Panchen Lama who passed away in 1989.

The most magnificent part of the Monastery is the Kelsang Temple in the northeast area of the compound. There, you'll find enough chapels, statues and murals to keep you enthralled for several trips. Wander around and take it all in slowly. There is just too much in this one building, from Chapels dedicated to the Maitreya Buddha to the Tara protection goddesses.

Opening hours: Theoretically from 9 am to noon and 2 pm to 5 pm, but the monks may occasionally close down early or change the hours. If they try to shoo you off, don't get angry, but try to smile and show them your ticket. Your getting angry just makes them more determined to close the monastery.

Cost: RMB40 entry fee. Photography fees of around RMB80, but negotiable.(ctrip.com)