Day 324 - Last day in Lhasa

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Ed feeling more human today meant we could go and visit the Ganden Monastery, which is 40km east of Lhasa, set in a spectacular setting at 4,500m high. The main reason why you come here is to visit the most important monastery for the Gelugpa order and to walk the 'kora' (pilgrim’s walk), which takes you around the monastery so you can see the fabulous views. The place was destroyed by the Red Guards and so nothing really is original but the view is worth the drive out there.

We came with Poo Poo’s wife and elderly friend (it was just like a family outing) as this month is the Present Buddha’s birthday, so most Tibetan’s make journeys to as many of the temples and monasteries as possible. Having been asked if we would mind them coming with us we met this morning with the elderly women and she settled into the back of the 4x4 with the spare tyre. Our offers of taking her place were dismissed and every now and again we would hear a little giggle come from behind us as she was listening to the conversation in the car, she was great. A funny moment was when Gemma needed the toilet and as at every tourist visited place you have to pay for the pleasure. Coming out of the room and reaching for her purse she was beaten to it by the elderly women who insisted on paying for her.

The afternoon was spent visiting a Medical Centre, which was just like visiting a hospital but being well sitting there in the waiting halls. As well as getting some supplies for the next week's journey to Kathmandu, Nepal.

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Comments

[ben]

happy birthday
must be amazing to be in an Asian country when it actually IS the Budda's birthday.