Overview
Sera Monastery is one of the 'Great Three' Gelug university monasteries of Tibet, located 1.25 miles (2.01 km) northeast of Lhasa. It is situated at the foot of Tatipu Hill in the Sera Valley, which is about 5 kilometers (3.1 mi) from Lhasa's west suburb.
It is one of the most important cultural and religious sites in Tibet, renowned for its debates and academic traditions.
Location
Address
Lhasa, Tibet
Neighborhood: Seraphin
Coordinates
29.644161, 91.114515
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
April to October
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds and cooler temperatures
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to warm
- • flowering gardens
- • clear skies
summer
warm to hot
- • extended daylight
- • lush greenery
autumn
cool and crisp
- • clear skies
- • fall colors
winter
cold, sometimes snowy
- • snow-covered landscape
- • holiday lights
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book ahead
- Bring valid ID
- Check weather forecast
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate
- • altitude sickness
- • stairs
Medical facilities: first aid available on-site
Payment Information
Accepted
cash (Chinese Yuan), major credit cards
Currency
Chinese Yuan (CNY)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
modest and respectful clothing, comfortable shoes for walking, walking shoes or hiking boots, shorts, sleeveless tops, revealing clothing
Booking Tips
- • at least 1 week
- • official website or reputable tour agency
- • 48 hours in advance for full refund
- • available for guided tours
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Sera Monastery Guide
Size: 45 MB
Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Tickets
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Café
Charging Stations: Rest areas
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Lhasa Gonggar Airport
Distance: 60 km
Travel Time: 1.5 hours
From City Center
Distance: 5 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Deep spiritual significance and cultural heritage
Historical Significance: Founded in 1419 by Jamchen Chojey, a disciple of Tsongkapa
Insider Tips
- Free entry early morning for locals
- Best food at the back entrance café
Local Recommendations
- • Try local momos at nearby eateries
- • Ask for guide Tenzin
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Tibetan, Chinese
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main courtyard
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Capture the debating monks
Result: Great cultural shot
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Potala Palace
Distance: 1.5 km
Walking: 20 min
Type: Palace
Jokhang Temple
Distance: 2 km
Walking: 30 min
Type: Temple
Reviews
Based on 850 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book online to skip the line"
- "Visit early for a peaceful experience"
- "Great views of Lhasa"
Contact Information
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Available Tours
69
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
850
Adult Entry
¥65