Bimdo Monastery: Located in Ladai Village, Wendu Town, 17 kilometers to the southwest of the county seat of Xunhua, the monastery is adjacent to the former residence of the 10th Panchen Lama who used to study Buddhism classics in the temple in his childhood. The monastery also serves as a major venue for the 10th Panchen Lama to host Buddhist activities when he returned to his hometown. Built in 1402, it is the oldest monastery of the Gelug Sect in Qinghai Province.
In the middle of the gigantic scripture hall is a bronze statue of the 10th Panchen Lama sitting on a lotus rostrum. The spectacular memorial hall commemorating the 10th Panchen Lama was built in 1991. The steles and photos on display in the hall show Panchen Lama’s love of his country and Buddhism, as well as his brilliant achievements.
Choekyi Gyaltsen, 10th Panchen Lama
Lobsang Trinley Lhündrub Chökyi Gyaltsen was the tenth Panchen Lama, officially the 10th Panchen Erdeni, of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. According to Tibetan Buddhism, Panchen Lamas are living emanations of the buddha Amitabha. He was often referred to simply as Choekyi Gyaltsen.
Transport: Take a long-distance bus from Xining to Liaxiaor Hezuo and then get off from Xunhua County.
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