introduce

Songzanlin Temple, also known as Guihua Temple, is located at the foot of Foping Mountain, 5 kilometers north of Shangri-La. It is one of the "Thirteen Forests" built by the fifth Dalai Lama and Qing Emperor Kangxi in 1679. It is not only the largest Tibetan Buddhist temple complex in Yunnan, but also the center of the Yellow Sect in northwestern Yunnan, known as the "Little Potala Palace". The temple is built on the mountain, and looks like an ancient castle. It is a collection of Tibetan plastic arts and is known as "Tibetan Art Museum".

Every year on the 29th day of the 11th lunar month, Tibetans hold the Gedong Festival here, which is dominated by "dancing gods" (mask dance). The atmosphere is mysterious and warm.


opening hours

08:00-18:00 all year round

must see tips

The Gelug Sect temple, so when visiting the main hall, remember to go in from the left and go out from the right, and the prayer wheel should also turn clockwise.
There is a fee to take photos with Tibetan compatriots in the scenic area, usually 5 yuan per person. If you take the initiative to ask for a group photo, be sure to ask in advance.