The Gongtang Chorten stands at the eastern entrance to Labrang Monastery, a white multi-storey reliquary tower capped with a gilded upper section that catches the light in the afternoon. It was built to house sacred relics and serves as a focal point for pilgrims completing the kora, many of whom stop here to pray before continuing around the circuit.
You can climb inside for a small additional fee. The upper levels offer clear views across the monastery roofscape and down the valley toward Xiahe town, a perspective that shows the full extent of the complex and how it dominates the valley floor. Early morning light is best for photography; by mid-afternoon the sun is behind the main complex.