Sakya County

Introducing Sakya County

Sakya County is located in the southwest of Shigatse, at the northern foot of the Himalayas and on the south bank of the Yarlung Zangbo River. The special geographical environment has created Sakya's unique landforms. The most famous of these is the grayish-white land on Benbo Mountain in Sakya Town. The name Sakya comes from this, meaning "grayish-white soil."

After more than 1,000 years of history, Sakya is now attracting tourists from all over the world with its long history and culture, mysterious Sakya Temple, simple ancient houses, traditional folk art, magical legends and unique landscapes.

Sakya Monastery, located on Benbo Mountain in Sakya County, Tibet, was founded by Kungong Choegyalpo in 1073 and expanded by Phagpa Phagpa in 1268. It is the ancestral temple of the Sakya School of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery houses a wealth of cultural relics, including precious palm-leaf scriptures, the Tripitaka "Buddega Dragon Horse," Yuan Dynasty mandala murals, and ancient porcelain.

Climate and best time to travel

Sakya County belongs to the plateau temperate semi-arid monsoon climate zone. The areas with high altitudes are relatively cold, while the climate in low-lying areas such as Jiding Township, Chexiu Township, and Xiongma Township is relatively warm, similar to that of Shigatse.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Sakya Monastery

Located on Benbo Mountain in Sakya County, Tibet Autonomous Region, it is the main monastery of the Sakya school of Tibetan Buddhism. Construction began in 1073 by the Sakya school's founder, Kungong Chogyepo. It is divided into two monasteries, the North and South, separated by the Zhongqu River. The North Monastery, located on the north bank in front of Benbo Mountain, suffered extensive damage during the Cultural Revolution. The Sakya Monastery we see today is the South Monastery.

Recommended play time: 1 day

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Most Popular FAQs for Sakya County

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Sakya County is historically significant due to the presence of the Sakya Monastery, one of the major Tibetan Buddhist monasteries. It is the headquarters of the Sakya school, which played a key role in the history of Tibet. The monastery's unique architectural style and its rich library of Buddhist scriptures make it a prominent cultural and religious landmark.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Sakya County is located in the Shigatse region of Tibet. It is about 150 kilometers from Lhasa, making it accessible by taxi or private vehicle. Public buses are available, but traveling by car is the most convenient option for most visitors. There are no metro services in the area.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Sakya Monastery is typically open to visitors from 8 AM to 5 PM daily. The best time to visit is during the warmer months, from May to October, when the weather is more pleasant. The winter months (November to March) are colder, but offer a quieter experience with fewer tourists.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee for Sakya Monastery is generally around 50-100 CNY, depending on the specific areas you wish to visit within the complex. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the monastery entrance. It is advised to bring cash, as card payments are not commonly accepted in remote areas.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for visiting Sakya Monastery, as tickets are typically available on-site. However, during peak tourist seasons (May to October), it may be helpful to check with local tour operators or hotels for availability, especially if you're planning a guided tour.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Sakya Monastery and the surrounding areas, you should allocate at least 3-4 hours. This allows time to visit the main temple, view the monastery's library, and take a stroll around the picturesque grounds.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Inside Sakya Monastery, the must-see highlights include the Great Hall with its elaborate murals, the sacred Buddhist texts and scriptures in the library, and the meditation caves nearby. The monastery's architecture, with its combination of Tibetan and Chinese styles, is also a significant feature.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Tibetan and Mandarin, and English-speaking guides can be arranged with prior notice. Audio guides are generally not available at the monastery, but the guides provide detailed insights into the history and significance of the monastery.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots around Sakya County include the panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan mountains, the stunning architecture of Sakya Monastery, and the surrounding Tibetan villages. The monastery’s rooftop offers a particularly scenic viewpoint of the valley below.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A recommended itinerary includes starting at the main entrance of Sakya Monastery, exploring the main hall, and then walking around the monastery complex to visit the sacred library and meditation caves. If time permits, a short hike around the surrounding hills offers beautiful views of the monastery and the landscape.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

There are no night visits or light shows available at Sakya Monastery. The monastery is generally closed after dark, and the area is known for its tranquil atmosphere. Special tours can be arranged through local tour operators for those interested in a more detailed historical or cultural experience.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Sakya County is not usually crowded, especially compared to other popular Tibetan destinations like Lhasa. The least crowded times to visit are during the off-peak months (November to March), while summer months (June to August) may attract more tourists, but it is still relatively quiet.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities such as toilets, small local eateries, and rest areas are available near the monastery. Water and snacks can be purchased from local shops. However, amenities are limited, so it is advisable to bring your own supplies if you plan to stay for an extended period.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Access to Sakya Monastery may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors due to uneven terrain and steep stairs in some parts of the monastery. Children can visit, but they should be closely supervised, especially near the monastery’s high altitudes.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is preferred at Sakya Monastery and in surrounding areas. Credit cards and mobile payments are not widely accepted, so it is advisable to carry sufficient cash when visiting.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are small Tibetan restaurants and local eateries near Sakya Monastery where visitors can enjoy traditional Tibetan food such as momos, thukpa, and butter tea. For a wider variety of dining options, head to Shigatse, which is about an hour away by car.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available in Tibetan cuisine, with dishes like vegetable momo and thukpa. Halal food is less common in this region, but it may be found in larger towns such as Shigatse.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Accommodation options near Sakya Monastery are basic, with guesthouses and small hotels offering simple amenities. For more comfortable accommodations, you may need to stay in Shigatse, which offers a wider range of hotels and guesthouses.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse, which is another important Tibetan Buddhist site. You can also visit the Shigatse Dzong, a fortress offering great views of the surrounding area.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops around Sakya County sell traditional Tibetan crafts such as prayer wheels, thangkas (religious paintings), and woolen products. Shigatse also has shops selling Tibetan jewelry and religious items.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Sakya County, the best way to continue your trip is to return to Shigatse by taxi or private vehicle. Shigatse offers better transportation connections, including buses and trains to Lhasa and other parts of Tibet.