Zhuqing Temple

Introducing Zhuqing Temple

The Zochin Dzogchen Monastery (also known as Zochin Monastery and Zhuqing Monastery) of the Old Tantric Nyingma School was founded in 1684 by the great master, the first Zochin Dharma King, Baima Renzeng. To date, there have been seven generations of reincarnated living Buddhas and twelve generations of Dharma masters. The three merits of teaching, practicing and doing achieved by the saints here are extremely wonderful and well-known.

From the 17th century to the mid-20th century, Dzogchen Monastery was the center for the transmission of the Nyingma school's Pratimoksha and Bodhisattva precepts, and a center for the practice and realization of the supreme Dzogchen Dharma.

Dzogchen Monastery is one of the six mother monasteries or six major temples of the Old Tantric Nyingma school (the six major temples are: Dorje Zha Monastery and Minzhuling Monastery in Tibet, Xieqing Monastery, Dzogchen Monastery, Gaden Monastery and Baiyu Monastery in Dokang). In the snowy Tibetan area, there are nearly three hundred branch temples that inherit its teachings.

Located in Derge County, Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, Dzogchen Monastery is known as Guru Padmasambhava, the Second Buddha, for his miraculous presence and blessing this place as one of his twenty-five great Snow Gardens. Located at an altitude of approximately 4,000 meters, Dzogchen Monastery is a pristine and beautiful sacred site in northeastern Derge County.

Climate and best time to travel

Dzogchin is located at an altitude of approximately 4,000 meters. The temperature in Dzogchin during July and August is approximately 5-9 degrees Celsius in the morning and evening, and 22-25 degrees Celsius at noon, and can get even hotter under the sun.

If you go to Zochin in July or August, it is recommended to bring sweaters, long johns, etc. Outerwear should preferably be rainproof.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Retreat Center

The Dzogchen Pematang Dzogchen Retreat Center was founded by His Holiness Pema Gesang in 2000. Pematang is a sacred site within the sacred sites of Dzogchen. Its topography embodies the auspicious eight auspicious signs and resembles a blooming lotus, hence the name Pematang (Lotus Garden).

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Zhuqing Temple

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Zhuqing Temple is a significant Tibetan Buddhist monastery in the Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. It is a center for religious learning and cultural preservation. The temple holds importance for the local Tibetan community and is known for its serene atmosphere and historical Tibetan architecture.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Zhuqing Temple is located in the Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Sichuan Province, China. It can be reached by car or taxi from the town of Ganzi, which is about a 2-hour drive away. Public transportation is limited, so a private car or taxi is the best way to get there.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The temple is generally open during daylight hours from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is in the spring and summer months (April to October) when the weather is mild and conducive to outdoor exploration.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no entrance fee for visiting Zhuqing Temple. However, donations are often welcomed to support the upkeep of the temple. Donations can be made on-site.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

No, advance booking is not required for general visits. However, if you wish to join a guided tour, it is recommended to book at least a few days in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Zhuqing Temple typically takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on how much time you spend exploring the grounds and observing the temple rituals.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The main highlights of Zhuqing Temple include its grand prayer hall, the intricate Tibetan Buddhist artwork, and the serene surrounding environment. The temple's peaceful courtyard and nearby monk's quarters are also interesting to explore.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Chinese. While English-speaking guides may be rare, some local guides may offer basic English services. It’s best to arrange a guide in advance if needed.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots include the temple itself, with its vibrant colors and intricate designs, as well as the surrounding landscapes that offer stunning views of the Ganzi region. The temple's central prayer hall is a particularly popular subject for photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the main prayer hall, then explore the temple’s various rooms and courtyards. Afterward, take a walk around the temple grounds to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty and perhaps interact with the local Tibetan monks.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits or light shows are not available at Zhuqing Temple. The temple’s focus is on daytime visits where visitors can experience the religious atmosphere and scenic surroundings.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Zhuqing Temple is not usually overcrowded. The least crowded times are during weekdays in the off-season (October to March). Weekends and holidays tend to attract more visitors, especially from the local Tibetan community.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

The temple has basic facilities, including toilets. There are small shops where you can buy religious items and souvenirs. It is recommended to bring your own water and snacks as there are limited food options nearby.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The temple’s terrain can be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors, as there are steps and uneven pathways. It may be suitable for children, but care should be taken in the more rugged areas around the temple.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is recommended, especially in rural areas around Zhuqing Temple. Mobile payments and cards may not be widely accepted, so it's best to carry cash for donations and purchases.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no restaurants inside Zhuqing Temple, but local Tibetan restaurants in nearby Ganzi offer traditional dishes like yak meat, tsampa, and butter tea.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available, especially in Tibetan cuisine, which often features vegetable-based stews and breads. Halal options are also available, especially in the town of Ganzi.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Accommodations are available in Ganzi, which is a short drive from the temple. You can find guesthouses and small hotels offering basic amenities in Ganzi.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Ganzi Tibetan Monastery and the beautiful landscapes of the Tibetan Plateau. A visit to other monasteries in the region or a trek in the surrounding mountains can easily be combined in a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops near the temple sell Tibetan religious artifacts, prayer beads, thangka paintings, and traditional Tibetan textiles such as scarves and blankets.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

The best transportation options after visiting Zhuqing Temple are by taxi or private car to explore nearby attractions. For longer trips, buses or flights from Ganzi can take you to other parts of Sichuan or Tibet.