TIBET
The Internet Travel Guide
Peter M. Geiser
SHIGATSE
Shigatse is the second largest city in Tibet. It is the seat of Panchen
Lama who ranks close to the Dalai Lama. The Panchen Lama is a
reincarnation of Amitabha, the Buddha of Infinite Light. Currently, the
10th Panchen Lama (according to China) 'reigns' from Beijing. Another 10th
Panchen Lama, the 6 year old boy Gedun Choekyi Nyima was announced in May
1995 by the Dalai Lama.
Tashilhunpo Monastery
The huge monastery, built in 1447, was once inhabited by over 4000 monks.
Nowadays, only 600 remain there. It is the seat of the Panchen Lama. The
Grand Hall contains the tomb (containing more than 85 kg gold and lots of
jewels) of the 4th Panchen Lama. There is a 27 m high statue of the
Maitreya Buddha. It may be that foreigners wanting to visit the monastery
will account trouble.
Accommodation
There are several hotels accepting foreigners.
Recommended is the Tibetan-owned Tenzin Hotel right by the free-market. It
is arranged around a friendly courtyard. Don't miss its good Chang
(Tibetan beer).
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