Close to Tibet, Songzanlin Monastery is impressive: an almost 35ha site set in a stunning location, a remarkable complex of temples with golden roofs, 800 monks living in modest white houses below the temple, a central prayer hall able to accommodate 1 500 devotees. Its decorative features, which include superb frescoes, homages to Tibetan deities, lend the building an undeniable magnificence. Built in the 17C, it was inspired by the Potala of Lhasa.