Lhoka Samye Monastery, located in Zhanang (Chanang or Ngagzha) County, Shannan, is Tibet's first Buddhist monastery with Buddha, Dharma and Sangha, built between 763 and 779 under King Trisong Detsen. Designed by Indian masters Shantarakshita and Padmasambhava, it marks the birth of Tibetan Buddhism.

Renowned for its mandala layout, the main hall symbolizes Mount Meru, while surrounding structures represent the Buddhist cosmos. Uniquely, the main hall blends Tibetan, Han and Indian architectural styles—a rare cultural fusion. Its four corners feature colorful stupas, and the walls enclose the complex like a sacred boundary. A national cultural relic, Samye is the cradle of Tibetan Buddhism, embodying ancient faith, artistic genius and cross-cultural harmony.