Gyantse and Baiju Temple

That afternoon, we arrived in Gyantse, an old fort and stayed for the night. The tourist highlight there is Baiju Temple.

On our way to Baiju Temple.

Streetscape in Gyantse.

We arrived at the temple. Note the altitude.

There was a festive atmosphere as the locals/pilgrims were celebrating a big festival that marked the birth, enlightenment and death of Buddha. In celebration, locals/pilgrims would spend the day feasting and socializing at the temple.

One of the stupas.

We climbed this huge stupa that stood more than 30 m in height. There were more than 100 cells within, containing statues and 100,000 murals.

Perspective on the way up.

The Buddha's Eyes.

Till we found out his name (which I'd forgotten), we dubbed this the "blue monster".

A & A taking photos on the way up.

View from the top. It looked like it was going to rain.

Then the sky cleared. View of the temple grounds.

Living quarters within the temple.

Spot the solar panels!

The interiors were too dark for good photos, so I only have pics of the exterior.