Hike to Yungdrungling Monastery

Yungdrungling is one of the few remaining Bon Monastery's remaining in Tibet.  Often referred to as the original religion of Tibet, it came about during the 11th century.  The Bon teachings and terminology are very similar to that of Buddhism.  From an explorers point of view, they are relatively the same in appearance. One item to note in paying respect to the religion, enter temples proceeding to the right (counter-clockwise) as opposed to clockwise at a Buddhist Monastery. 

The Monastery is located along the Friendship Highway between Lhasa and Shigatse.  Our driving pulled off the Friendship Highway and parked near an awesome looking stone suspension bridge. While it appears as if vehicles can cross, they cannot. The bridge allows carts pulled by Yaks and sheep heards to cross this tributary that feeds into Yarlung Tsangpo. 

Once across the bridge follow this dirt road to the right. When the monastery Kora comes into view, there is a side trail on the left that will take you to the monastery. Along this trail you will see the ruins from the destruction during the cultural revolution. The hike takes about 30 minutes to arrive at the Monastery. The Monastery is rather small but in a wonderful setting with only a few monks to maintain the many valuable Bon writings.  This is a great side trip when traveling from between Lhasa and Shigatse.