Rongbuk Monastery

Built in 1899, the Rongbuk Monastery was set up by Nyingmapa (Red Hat) Sect on the north side of {{Mt. Everest (Mt. Qomolangma)|/cityguide/everest.htm}}. Whilst it doesn't have a particularly long history, the Rongbuk Monastery is the highest monastery in the world, which gives it some truly spectacular views. Inside the main hall of the Rongbuk Monastery, lifelike statues of Sakyamuni and Padmasambhava stand quietly. In addition the frescos here are really worth seeing. This monastery is also noteworthy because it houses nuns as well as monks. Yet what makes the Rongbuk Monastery truly unique is of course its neighbor, Mt. Everest. Many mountaineering experts believe that the Rongbuk Monastery is the best place to appreciate the mightiness of the highest peak in the world. Looking southwards from the Rongbuk Monastery, you will find that Mt. Everest appears like a huge pyramid standing imposingly among mountain ranges. On sunny days you may have the chance to see a big ivory-white cloud above the mountain, like a white flag flying in the air above Mt. Everest.