Engong Monastery in Samzhubzê District, Shigatse
Engong Monastery (恩贡寺), located in Jiangdang Township (江当乡), Samzhubzê District (桑珠孜区), Shigatse (日喀则市), is one of the significant Gelugpa (格鲁派) monasteries in Tibet. Revered as the “Mother Temple” of Tashilhunpo Monastery (扎什伦布寺), it has long been an important center for the Panchen Lama lineage to preach and transmit Buddhist teachings. Originally founded in 1505 by the Third Panchen Lama, Lobsang Zhonnu (三世班禅洛桑顿珠), Engong Monastery has grown into a key religious institution in the region.
Historical Background and Expansion
Founding and Early Development
Engong Monastery was initially known as Ensa Monastery (恩萨寺) and later renamed Engong Zeyü (恩贡泽雪). The monastery’s origin dates back to the time of the Second Panchen Lama, Sonam Cheklang (二世班禅索南却朗). After leaving Gandan Monastery (甘丹寺), he returned to his hometown in Ensa, where a small Sakya (萨迦派) monastery was established. Once settled, Sonam Cheklang resided at this monastery, began recruiting monks, and taught the Gelugpa teachings, making the monastery a vital center for the Gelug tradition.
Expansion Under the Third and Fourth Panchen Lamas
In 1548, the Third Panchen Lama, Lobsang Zhonnu, undertook significant renovations to the monastery, which initially comprised a main hall, a Buddha hall, and housing for 13 monks. With leftover stones and earth, a four-story hall known as the “Alabai Hall” (阿拉白殿) was built, which means “Remaining Building.”
After the Third Panchen Lama passed away in 1566, his primary disciple, Kezhu Sangye Yixi (克珠桑杰益西), continued the expansion. He built the “Pure Hall” (净殿) to enshrine the remains of Lobsang Zhonnu, as well as the Protector Hall (护法神殿). During his tenure, the Fourth Panchen Lama (四世班禅) also made significant contributions, further expanding the monastery by adding a three-story scripture hall, and renovating the main hall, Protector Hall, Pure Hall, and the scripture library. He also added a special room for his personal quarters, and the main hall became home to a Vajra Mahesvara (金刚大威德) statue, a central figure in the monastery’s religious practices.
By the time of the Fourth Panchen Lama, the monastery had been officially renamed Engong Zeyü.
Sacred Artifacts and Cultural Treasures
Buddha Statues and Religious Artifacts
Engong Monastery houses numerous Buddha statues and religious relics:
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Shakyamuni Buddha Statue: A significant statue of Shakyamuni Buddha made from white brass, revered by the faithful.
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Medicine King Statue: A statue representing the Medicine King (药王), a healing figure in Buddhist tradition.
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Lobsang Zhonnu Statue: A statue dedicated to the Third Panchen Lama, Lobsang Zhonnu.
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Lobsang Tsokyi Gyaltsen Statue: A statue of Lobsang Tsokyi Gyaltsen, a prominent religious figure in the Gelugpa lineage.
Sacred Texts and Manuscripts
The monastery also preserves a collection of rare scriptures and ancient Tibetan texts, including:
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29 Thangkas (唐卡), traditional Tibetan religious paintings.
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“Intensive Program” (密集程序) written by Tsongkhapa‘s (宗喀巴) first disciple.
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Letters from Tsongkhapa to the Ming Emperor.
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The Tibetan Buddhist Canon: Including the Kangyur (甘珠尔) and Tengyur (丹珠尔).
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The Complete Works of the Panchen Lamas (历代班禅经文全集).
Stupas and Relics
The monastery is home to several important stupas (灵塔) and relics:
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Lobsang Zhonnu Stupa: A reliquary stupa enshrining the remains of the Third Panchen Lama.
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Victory Stupa: Another stupa of great significance.
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Silver Stupa in the South Hall: The stupa contains a relic of the Buddha’s tooth (舍利). Surrounding it are Han silver stupas, including the Gandan Dzong (甘丹旦增嘉措) stupa made from copper and gold, and other sacred items such as the Wheel of Dharma (法轮).
Religious Practices and Monastic Life
Engong Monastery follows the teachings of the Gelugpa (格鲁派) tradition, which is known for its emphasis on monastic discipline, meditation, and philosophical study. The Panchen Lama’s lineage plays a key role in the ongoing religious activities at the monastery, ensuring that it remains a center of spiritual learning and practice for generations to come.
Monks at Engong Monastery follow strict meditative practices, perform rituals, and engage in daily study and worship. The Panchen Lama‘s teachings continue to guide the community’s religious life, with numerous religious ceremonies and celebrations held throughout the year.
Visitor Information
Location
Engong Monastery is located in Jiangdang Township (江当乡), Samzhubzê District (桑珠孜区), Shigatse (日喀则市), Tibet. It is situated along the 318 National Highway (318国道).
Opening Hours
The monastery is generally open to visitors throughout the day. However, it’s advisable to check with local authorities for any holiday-specific closures.
Admission Fee
There is no admission fee to visit the monastery, though donations are encouraged to support the monastery’s upkeep and preservation.
Getting There
The most convenient way to reach the monastery is by self-driving or hired car. It is located approximately 5 kilometers from the main area of Jiangdang Township.
Altitude
The monastery sits at an altitude of about 3,800 meters above sea level. Visitors are advised to allow time to acclimate to the high-altitude environment before visiting.
