Buchu Monastery in Bayi District, Nyingchi
Chinese Name: 布楚寺
English Name: Buchu Monastery
Location: Bayi District (巴宜区), Nyingchi Prefecture (林芝市), Tibet Autonomous Region, China
Admission Fee: Free
Opening Hours: All day
About Buchu Monastery
Buchu Monastery is an ancient temple located approximately 28 kilometers south of Bayi, the modern town in Nyingchi County in eastern Tibet. The monastery was built on the site of the old village of Drakchi, a significant area in Tibetan Buddhist history.
History and Development of Buchu Monastery
The original structure of Buchu Monastery dates back to the 7th century during the reign of King Songtsen Gampo. It was one of the eight “demoness-subduing” temples constructed across Tibet. According to geomantic principles, the monastery was built on the right elbow of an ogress, a representation of Tibet, aligning with the traditional Tibetan belief in the significance of spiritual and physical geography. It is the oldest Buddhist structure in the eastern Tibetan region of Kongpo.
Initially, Buchu Monastery belonged to the Nyingmapa sect. However, by the 17th century, the Gelugpa sect had established a presence, and the monastery was officially adopted by them during the time of the Regent, Demo Rinpoche (r.1886-1895).
Main Attractions at Buchu Monastery
Buchu Monastery is part of a network of 12 temples built during the time of King Songtsen Gampo, which are all arranged around the revered Jokhang Temple in Lhasa. The monastery’s two-story building is easily recognizable by its striking golden roof, which can be seen from a distance. While only a handful of monks reside here today, the monastery retains its historical and spiritual significance.
The monastery previously housed images of the Eight Manifestations of Padmasambhava, as well as images of Amitayus. The upper floor still contains several of these relics, though they have not been fully restored. The lower level features a large statue of Padmasambhava, which has survived the passage of time and still houses the “zungjuk,” a sacred mantra core.
Attraction Transportation
By Air:
The nearest airport to Buchu Monastery is Nyingchi Mainling Airport (林芝米林机场 – LZY), which is situated in the Yarlung Zangbo River Valley. With an altitude of 2,949 meters (9,675 feet), this is the lowest airport in Tibet but also one of the most challenging for flight operations. Nyingchi Mainling Airport is well-connected to major cities such as Chengdu, Chongqing, Lhasa, Guangzhou, and Xi’an.
The airport is approximately 50 km from Bayi Town, the downtown area of Nyingchi, and about 18 km from Mainling County. Taxis are available from the airport to Bayi Town, with a fare of about 150 CNY. Shuttle buses run from Mainling County to the airport, with departures at 7:20 AM and 7:40 AM, taking approximately 30 minutes and costing about 25 CNY.
Tibet Discovery offers comfortable and convenient airport pick-up and drop-off services as part of their tour packages.
By Land:
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Lhasa to Nyingchi (approx. 400 km, 8 hours)
Travelers can drive from Lhasa to Bayi via the Lhasa-Nyingchi Highway (G318). Along the way, you will cross Mila Pass (5,013 meters), the boundary between Maizhokunggar County in Lhasa and Gongbo’gyamda in Nyingchi. Continue driving toward Nyingchi, passing by Basumtso Lake, before reaching Bayi Town. -
Shannan to Nyingchi (via Nang County)
This route is less traveled due to challenging road conditions, and shuttle buses between Shannan and Bayi are infrequent, with service depending on weather and road conditions. -
Shigatse to Nyingchi
If you’re coming from Shigatse, there are no direct buses to Nyingchi, and you will need to pass through Lhasa or Shannan for a transfer. The journey can take over ten hours, but it offers an opportunity to enjoy more scenic spots along the way.
Attraction Travel Tips
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Travel Duration:
Expect the journey to take 1-2 hours from Bayi Town to Buchu Monastery. -
Travel Seasons:
The monastery is accessible all year round, though the best time to visit is during the warmer months when the weather is more pleasant. -
Altitude Sickness:
Since Nyingchi is located at a relatively lower altitude compared to other regions of Tibet, it is easier for travelers to adjust. However, it’s important to bring sufficient water, warm clothing, and fruits or vegetables rich in vitamins to help prevent altitude sickness. -
Respect Local Customs:
When visiting Buchu Monastery, always be mindful of local Tibetan customs and Buddhist practices. Be respectful of the monks and the temple’s sacred spaces.
Buchu Monastery is an important cultural and historical site in Tibet, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich Buddhist heritage. Its serene atmosphere and stunning architecture make it a must-visit destination for those traveling through the Nyingchi area. Whether you’re interested in Tibetan history, culture, or spiritual practice, Buchu Monastery provides a unique experience for visitors to Tibet.
