Shigatse Dzong


Once the residence of the kings of Tsang and later the governor of Tsang, very little remained of this dzong (fort) after it was destroyed in the popular uprising of 1959. Rebuilt in the 2000s, Shigatse is now once again graced with an impressive hilltop fort that bears a close resemblance to the Potala, albeit on a smaller scale. The dzong was empty and off-limits at the time of research, but is an impressive mark on Shigatse's skyline.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Mani Lhakhang

0.13 MILES

This tiny, ancient chapel in Shigatse's Tibetan old town houses a building-sized prayer wheel and is home to two monks.

2. Tashilhunpo Monastery

0.63 MILES

One of the few monasteries in Tibet to weather the stormy seas of the Cultural Revolution, Tashilhunpo remains relatively unscathed. It is a pleasure to…

3. Darawa Linka

1.17 MILES

Locals make merry at this park on the eastern side of Shigatse. Grab a bottle of Lhasa Beer and join them. There are a couple of dozen tents where people…

4. Summer Palace of the Panchen Lamas

1.58 MILES

Though it ranks far below Tashilhunpo, if you have extra time in Shigatse, pay a visit to this walled palace complex at the southwestern end of town. The…

5. Nartang Monastery

8.87 MILES

Just a few kilometres outside of Shigatse, this 12th-century Kadampa monastery is famed for wood-block printing the Nartang canon in the 18th century…

6. Shalu Monastery

12.53 MILES

It’s a treat for the traveller when a sight is both a pleasure to explore and of great artistic importance. Such is Shalu Monastery, which dates back to…

7. Changme Monastery

26.12 MILES

About 41km from Gyantse is the county capital of Panam and the 15th-century Changme Monastery. Levelled in the Cultural Revolution, the monastery was…

8. Gepeling Water Mill

28.85 MILES

This traditional water mill is located halfway between Gyantse and Shigatse. Peek into the back room to see the working water-powered stone mill grinding…