Gechak Nunnery is the largest nunnery in Qinghai Province, home to around 400 nuns practicing in the Kagyu tradition. Despite being founded relatively recently — in 1893 — it has grown into a major centre of female Buddhist practice in the Kham region, drawing practitioners from across the plateau.
The community here is known for its high standard of study and practice. The nunnery is set in a valley southwest of Nangqen town and is accessible by hired vehicle. Visitors are welcome to observe prayers and to walk the grounds, and the nuns are often willing to speak with respectful travellers. Arriving early in the morning, when the main prayer sessions take place, gives the most vivid sense of the nunnery's life.