Songzanlin Monastery
Shangri-La, China
Songzanlin Monastery is located about two miles north from Shangri-La and it is the largest Tibetan monastery in the province. The monastery was built in 1681 after two years of work on the construction. At first glance, it may remind you of ancient castles. You can find two lamaseries – Jikang and Zhacang that numerous believers that come here use to pray.
The treasures of the monastery include golden lamps and Buddha josses’ figures, as well as silver censers and Tibetan lectures. Songzanlin should be visited from October to May to avoid the rainy season. The Tibetans hold an annual Gedong Festival here.