Gandan Songzanlin Monastery

The Gandan Songzanlin Monastery, also known as the Little Potala Palace, is a significant Tibetan Buddhist monastery located in Shangri-La, Yunnan Province. Situated at an altitude of over 3,000 meters above sea level, this historic monastery was built over 300 years ago by the 5th Dalai Lama. Its architectural design is inspired by the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet, earning it the nickname "Little Potala Palace." The monastery showcases Tibetan religious culture through its stunning architecture, including vibrant golden copper tiles. It consists of two main Tibetan temples: Zhacang and Jikang. Inside the main hall, colorful and intricate murals adorn the walls, depicting historical sites and promoting Buddhist teachings. Photography is allowed only in the surrounding areas of the monastery. However, taking pictures inside the buildings is strictly prohibited to preserve the beauty and vibrancy of the murals, as camera flashes can cause damage.