Shannan Prefecrure is located in the south eastern part of the Tibet and has since long remained one of the most densely populated regions of Tibet. It spreads over an area of around 80,000 sq km and has a population of around 310,000. A majority of these people are Tibetan and followers of Lamaistic Buddhism.


The average altitude of Shannan is 3700m and the climate is pleasantly mild. A good amount of rainfall ensures the production of crops like barley and buckwheat which in turn has converted Shannan into the 'granary of Tibet'. The average annual temperature varies between 5·C to 8 ·C, with the highest temperature shooting upto 31C and lowest dipping to around -18·C. The best time to visit Shannan is between June to August when the temperature is at its peak, however for those who wish to enjoy the snow covered highland December and January are the best months.


Significance of Buddhism
In the 8th century when Buddhism was facing resistance from the followers of the traditional Bon religion, King Trisong Detsen sent out an invitation to an Indian tantric master Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rimpoche. He subdued all evil powers and laid the foundation of the first monastery of Tibet, the Samay Monastery. This monastery is located in Shannan region, around 30 km from Tsedang, a small village and 200 km from Lhasa.

Today, the region is home to around 251 monastery, temples and other religious places that serves the religious needs of the people.


Buddhist Attractions

• Samye Monastery : The Samye Monastery, as stated earlier, is the first monastery to be constructed in Tibet under the patronage of Tibetan king Trisong Detsen. Padamasambhava selected the site for the construction of the monastery while the design was finalised by Santarakshita. The latter was also invited over by king Trisong along with Padmasambhava. The monastery is a synthesis of the Tibetan, Indian as well as Chinese style and the layout depicts the ideal universe described in the Buddhist scriptures. Within, Utse is the grand hall with three floors comprising chapels dedicated to different deities.
  
  
• Mindroling Monastery : Mindroling Monastery was first constructed in the 10th century and was reconstrcuted in the 17th century by Terdak Lingpa. It stands against a mountain facing a huge valley. The fame of Mindroling lies in it being one of the best in research in astronomy, astrology, medicine and calligraphy. Also, earlier, many eminent lamas of the monastery were appointed for teaching in the seminary of Potala Palace and also for the task of researching and compiling the Tibetan calendar. What is also noteworthy in the Monastery is the fact that the monks residing here are permitted to have wives and children. For tourists, the murals painted on the walls are very attractive. These are mostly of the fearsome Buddhist figures.
  
  
  
• Tandruk Monastery : Tandruk Monastery lies five km south of Tsedang and dates back to the time when Jokhang and Ramoche were founded in Lhasa. The name Tandruk means 'the sound of an eagle roaring like a dragon' and reminds of the story that is connected with Sogtsen Gampo and the construction of the monastery. The main building of the monastery, Tshomchen a huge copper statue of Buddha. Apart from this, a thangka made up of 29,026 pearls, a diamond, two carbuncles, and other precious gems makes up for an interesting visit.
  
  
• Yumbu Lakhang : Further ahead from Tandruk Monastery lies the Yumbu Lakhang, is a legendary palace built in the 2nd century by the Bon follower. Later, the monastery was converted into a summer palace for king Songtsen Gampo and Princess Wencheng. Still later, when Songtsen Gampo transferred his capital to Lhasa, Yumbu Lakhang was turned into a chapel. It became a Gelukpa monastery during the rule of the fifth Dalai Lama.