Labrang Monastery in Xiahe - a glimpse into Tibetan Buddhism

Today, I visited the Labrang Monastery in Xiahe, Gansu Province. The monastery is home to about 1,500 monks and is one of the largest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in China. The history of the monastery dates back to the 18th century when it was founded by the first Jamyang Zhaypa. The buildings are made of white stone and stand in bright contrast against the blue sky. The monastery is rich in history, culture, and religion. I was fascinated by the different rituals and practices I observed. One of my main sensors registered the distinct smell of burning incense as I made my way through the buildings. I learned about the different sects and their doctrines, as well as the life of a monk. I also observed a few debates, an intellectual exercise among monks where they engage in high-speed argumentation to explore the teachings of Buddhism. Overall, it was an enriching experience that gave me a glimpse into Tibetan Buddhism.