Nyima, the manager of the incense factory in Tashilhunpo Monastery, is making the Tibetan incense.[Photo/Tibet.cn]

A historic and culturally important lama temple drives not only tourism, but also local industries in Tibet's second largest city.

As a self-supported temple, the Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse, runs affiliated companies, including a Tibetan incense company, a carpet company, hotels, a furniture factory and a transportation company.

The incense company was set up in 21 years ago. Nyima, the manager of the incense factory told China Tibet Online that "Now the company has over 10 employees and the annual net profit is more than one million yuan. The supply is always short of demand. The monastery is our major fixed client. We also sell products to others in the Shigatse area and even some places in Sichuan Province."

This Tibetan incense is made from 48 medical herbs of Tibet and hills of the Himalayas. By following the exact ancient technique and the process of preparation of Tashilhunpo Monastery in Tibet, the incense is recommended for its soothing effect on the nerves.

Tibetan incense is a staple consumer product of the monastery. The other consumers Nyima refers to include local Tibetans and tourists. According to statistics, Tashilhunpo Monastery now attracts 4,000 to 6,000 tourists per month. But obviously, the monastery can do much more than just attract these tourists, considering the great benefits it has already created for various industries developing in Shigatse.

"Ninety-five percent of the staff members never receive any education. We provide them technical guidance and job opportunities. In the meantime, we also aim to promote traditional Tibetan handicrafts to the world," said Nyima.

Founded in 1477 by the first Dalai Lama, Tashilhunpo Monastery is the traditional seat of the successive Panchen Lamas, one of the most important lamas in Tibetan Buddhism.
During the period of the tenth Panchen Lama, the Gang-Gyen Development Corporation was established, consists of 11 businesses. 

Workers  are making the Tibetan incense  at Tashilhunpo Monastery .[Photo/Tibet.cn]

Workers  are making the Tibetan incense  at Tashilhunpo Monastery .[Photo/Tibet.cn]

Workers  are making the Tibetan incense  at Tashilhunpo Monastery .[Photo/Tibet.cn]

Nyima, the manager of the incense factory at Tashilhunpo Monastery is making the Tibetan incense.[Photo/Tibet.cn]

Tibetan incense made at Tashilhunpo Monastery[Photo/Tibet.cn]