Shalu was founded in 1040 and rebuilt in the 14th century, when the scholar Butön Rinchen Drub was its abbot. Craftsmen from the Yuan court in China worked on it, which explains the green glazed-tile roofs that make it look unlike any other monastery in Tibet. The village around it is quiet farmland.
Inside, the corridors and chapels preserve murals from the 14th century, showing a blend of Newar, Chinese and Tibetan styles. The light is dim, so bring a small torch if allowed. A few monks look after the building and may show you the main chapels.
The drive takes about 40 minutes each way on a minor road. It fits on the morning before leaving Shigatse for Gyantse or Lhasa, or as an add-on day for travellers interested in art history. Check with your guide whether the monastery is open on the day.
Good for
- Couples
- Photographers
- Solo
Questions travellers ask
Why is Shalu Monastery special?
Shalu combines Tibetan and Yuan Chinese architecture, with distinctive green-glazed tile roofs, and keeps important 14th-century murals in Newar and Chinese influenced styles. It was the seat of the scholar Butön, who compiled the Tibetan Buddhist canon. It is far less visited than Tashilhunpo.
How far is Shalu from Shigatse?
About 22 km south-east, roughly 40 minutes each way by road. A visit takes 2–3 hours including travel. It can be combined with the drive from Shigatse to Gyantse, which runs in the same direction.
Is Shalu included in standard Tibet tours?
Not usually. It is an optional add-on in our Tibet group tour and Lhasa–Everest tour, priced per vehicle. It needs to be listed in your permit, so request it when booking rather than on the road.
