Mindroling, the most significant monastery of Nyingmapa sect, was founded at the end of 10th century and rebuilt in 1676 by Terdak Lingpa. It lies east of Dranang River in Dranang county. Surrounded in mountains, the monastery has very beautiful scenery. Mindroling has a high reputation in research of astronomy and astrology, medicine and calligraphy. Usually most high lamas teaching in the seminary at Potala were Mindroling lamas. In the past, the Tibetan calendar was compiled at Mindroling.

Those won it a title of First Lama Institution in Tibet. Marriage is allowed in Mindroling and the throne of its abbot is passed on from father to son or son-in-law.

The murals painted on the walls of Mindroling are very special. Most Buddhist figures look ferocious, savage and ugly. These rough and exaggerated numina show the typical trantric arts.