Little is left of the original monastery complex that once sprawled across the hills north of the Trum-chu, but it is still worth climbing up through the Tibetan village and wandering around what does remain. The northern monastery predates the southern monastery (the oldest temple at the northern monastery was built in 1073), and it is alleged to have contained 108 buildings, like Ganden. It may once have housed some 3000 monks who concentrated on Tantric studies.
Centred in the village is a large new shedra and debating courtyard. After passing through the new village, head for the white chörtens, or the ruins even further to the left. Near the chörtens are three main complexes that are open: the main Labrang Shar , the Namgyel Lhakhang to the left and the Rinche Gang Nunnery to the far right. Remember to walk in a clockwise fashion as this is a kora route.
