Tibetan Temples - The Center Of Buddhism

Steeped in history and culture, visiting Tibetan temples is an experience that is sure to stay with you for years to come.

The architecture demonstrated in many of the temples is awe inspiring to say the least, and one such example is the Drepung Monastery which is located in the west of Lhasa.
It is a massive formation which some say resembles a whole city, and has intricate designs which from above could be said to resemble the scales of a fish in uniform rows. It is a grand spectacle to feast the eye on.

At the heart of the temples in Tibet is Buddhism, and as such they were considered a place of learning with pages of scripture which are there and actively studied even today. A place of reverence and contemplation, the temples in Tibet will, in many cases, still house the monks who live there.

The temples are the center of their world and are as such normally circular in design and have many three or four storey buildings encompassing the palace at the center, traditionally called the ‘Cuoqin'.

This translates to mean a place of gathering or an assembly hall and is again of grand proportions, allowing for literally thousands of monks to come together and chant scriptures.

Many of the structures have been so designed to represent the basic principles of their belief, which is why the square is a popular structural choice.

The corners represent the four truths wheel of Dharma, and the use of heavy decoration with curtains and colors provides an air of mystery and intrigue and are used to shroud the palaces, adding a feeling of darkness. This is only lifted by the sight of the shining golden statue of Buddha bringing his metaphysical light to the darkness of the world.

Whatever aspect of Tibetan temples appeals to you, it is certain to say that you will find a greater understanding of the culture and belief that rules the hearts of the Buddhists.

It should definitely form part of your holiday itinerary if you are going to be in Tibet. You will relish the experience and take away glorious memories.

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