Samye Monastery

Samye Monastery

Located about 30km west of Tsetang, on the opposite bank of the Yarlung Tsangpo River, Samye Monastery was founded in AD 775 by King Trisong Detsen as the first monastery in Tibet. Getting there is quite complicated, but it commands a beautiful, secluded position.

To reach Samye, catch one of the morning buses from opposite the Kirey Hotel in Lhasa or from Barkhor Square. There is sometimes a police check at the ferry crossing for valid permits, though there was no such check during our last visit. Before you leave Lhasa, ask around about the current situation.