Gar monastery is located at one of the most beautiful scenic locations in the remote part of the Kham Nancheng surrounded by mountains, and verdant forests and inhabited by many kinds of birds and wildlife. One of the most beautiful and amazing sites is that the blue sheep, monkeys, and other animals are often seen roaming freely around the monastery without fear of human existence. Gar monastery is a true hidden gem in Tibet and the beauty of its location is different from any other monastery in Tibet.
More than 700 years old Ghar monastery is located 3700 meters above sea level and 70 kilometers from Nancheng County. Around the year 1200, Gar Chodingpa founded the monastery at the beautiful Zaqu Valley which this monastery produced some of the greatest masters and yogis of Kham Nancheng. Gar monastery is divided into two: an upper and a lower. The lower section has a school for young novice monks and also has a small village nearby. The upper section is built alongside a crazy rock wall face that looks impossible to reach. The road to the upper monastery is quite good. The view from the top is amazing. Currently, there are around 90 monks at Gar Monastery, many of them under the age of 20. A new dormitory was recently completed next to the upper monastery.
The differentiation of Gar monastery in Nangchen from other monasteries is its unique location and magnificent structure. It is located in the Dza River valley. It is an evergreen forest that surrounds the monastery while craggy mountain peaks can be seen all around. A small lake is also located in the valley below the monastery. The area around Gar Monastery provides excellent hiking opportunities. Tame deer and monkeys can be found around the monastery. The deer are very tame and possible to pet. Monkey is also there and the monastery also kept them as a pet. Not to mention there is different kind of birds chirping in the wood while leading to the monastery. There is peace of mind and animals are running around without the fear of human existence.
There is no public transportation to the monastery, but you will find plenty of taxis that can take you there. The valley going up to the monastery has a tent hotel during the summer months and that is worth staying at. Gar monastery is a perfect place for nature lovers, photographers, and spiritual peace seekers. These tents are comfortable and are set up in a grassy field surrounded by evergreen trees and the Rocky Mountains. If anyone wants to explore remote Tibetan monasteries that offer great hiking and stunning views is highly recommended to visit.
