Shey Monastery, known as the "Crystal Monastery," is tucked away in the rugged wilderness of Upper Dolpa, Nepal. This remote gem is perched at 4,200 meters.

Built in the 11th century, Shey Monastery holds deep significance for Tibetan Buddhists. Every twelve years, pilgrims from around the world travel to Shey for the "Shey Festival," coinciding with the Year of the Dragon in the Tibetan calendar. This gathering offers the faithful an opportunity to perform rituals, circumambulate the Crystal Mountain, and seek blessings from the monks who reside in the monastery.

Shey Monastery’s architecture reflects the Tibetan style, with stone walls, wooden beams, and colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind. Inside, the walls are adorned with frescoes of Buddhist deities, mandalas, and symbolic motifs, which have been preserved through centuries despite the harsh climate.

Shey Monastery is a part of Shey Phoksundo National Park, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Snow leopards roam these lands, and the pristine environment perfectly complements the deep-rooted Buddhist traditions of the Dolpo-pa (people of Dolpa).

Shey Monastery is perched on hills at 4200 m. Upper Dolpa.

Pilgrims arrive at Shey Monastery for the Shey Festival in Upper Dolpo, Nepal.

Pilgrims arrive at Shey Monastery for the Shey Festival in Upper Dolpo, Nepal.

Interior of Shey Monastery in Upper Dolpo, Nepal

Interior of Shey Monastery in Upper Dolpo, Nepal

Age-old prayer books at Shey Monastery in Upper Dolpo, Nepal.

Age-old prayer books at Shey Monastery in Upper Dolpo, Nepal.

Butter lamp offering at Shey Monastery in Upper Dolpo, Nepal