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Songzanlin Monastery, located in beautiful Shangri-La, is known as the "Little Potala Palace" due to its resemblance to the Potala Palace in Tibet. Built in 1679, the temple, nestled against a mountainside and facing a lake, exudes grandeur, solemnity, and mystery, making it the premier temple of Tibetan Buddhism in Yunnan.
The entire temple is built with solid and thick walls and five gates. The main temple is a five-story Tibetan-style carved building. The main hall can accommodate 1,600 people sitting cross-legged and chanting. The hall also houses bronze statues of the Fifth Dalai Lama and the Seventh Dalai Lama, as well as numerous Buddha statues, palm leaf scriptures, colorful gold-painted thangkas, golden lamps, handed-down Buddhist instruments and other treasures from past dynasties. There are more than 700 monks in the temple.
Every year from December 26th to 29th of the Tibetan calendar, Tibetans hold the Gedong Festival here, which is mainly based on "dance of gods" (mask dance). The atmosphere is mysterious and warm.
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
115 yuan/person, including tour guide explanation and sightseeing bus
8:00-18:00
Songzanlin Temple, built in 1679, is the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan Province. It is known for its striking Tibetan architectural style and serves as an important religious and cultural center for Tibetan Buddhism in the region. The temple is often referred to as the "Little Potala Palace" due to its resemblance to the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet.
Songzanlin Temple is located approximately 5 kilometers from the center of Shangri-La in Yunnan Province. The most convenient way to reach the temple is by taxi or private car. There are no metro services in the area, and walking may not be practical due to the distance and terrain.
The temple is generally open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best time to visit is during the morning hours when the temple is less crowded, and you can witness the monks’ morning prayers. The best seasons to visit are spring and autumn, as the weather is mild, and the views of the surrounding mountains are clearer.
The entrance fee to Songzanlin Temple is around ¥85. Tickets can be purchased at the temple's entrance, or in some cases, they may be included in a guided tour package. It's recommended to buy tickets on-site, though some tour agencies may offer online ticketing options.
While it’s not mandatory to book tickets in advance, it is advisable to do so during peak tourist seasons (May to October) to avoid waiting in line. You can usually book tickets a few days in advance online or through local tour operators.
To fully explore Songzanlin Temple, including the main halls, surrounding areas, and Tibetan culture exhibits, allow at least 1 to 2 hours. If you plan to engage with local monks or take a guided tour, an additional hour may be required.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and English. Audio guides are also available in Mandarin, and English audio guides can sometimes be provided. It’s recommended to check in advance for English-speaking guides, especially during peak seasons.
Start your visit by entering the main temple complex and exploring the Buddha halls. Afterward, visit the "Little Potala Palace" area for stunning views and photos. End your visit by walking around the residential areas of the monks and observing their prayer rituals.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Songzanlin Temple. However, during special Tibetan festivals, the temple may host events such as prayer ceremonies and cultural performances, providing a unique experience.
Songzanlin Temple can be crowded, especially during public holidays and the peak tourist season (May to October). The best times to visit for a more peaceful experience are early mornings on weekdays, or during the off-season (November to March).
There are basic facilities available at Songzanlin Temple, including toilets and small shops selling souvenirs and snacks. Food options are limited, so it is advisable to bring your own water and snacks for the visit.
The temple is accessible for elderly and children, but some areas may involve steep steps or uneven paths. The main temple halls and the surrounding areas are generally accessible, but visitors with mobility issues may need assistance or may prefer to explore the lower grounds of the temple.
Cash is accepted at Songzanlin Temple, but mobile payment methods like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used in the area. Credit cards are not commonly accepted, so it is best to carry cash or use mobile payments for purchases.
There are a few small restaurants near the temple, offering local Tibetan food, such as yak meat, butter tea, and tsampa (roasted barley flour). Shangri-La city, which is a short drive away, has a wider variety of dining options.
Vegetarian options are available, but vegan and halal food may be limited in the temple area. It’s a good idea to check with local restaurants in Shangri-La for more diverse options.
There are several hotels and guesthouses in Shangri-La, located around 5 kilometers from the temple. Some options include Shangri-La Hotel, Songtsam Shangri-La, and various local guesthouses offering Tibetan-style accommodations.
There are souvenir shops in and around the temple, selling items such as Tibetan jewelry, prayer beads, Thangka paintings, and local handicrafts. You can also find small items like incense and prayer wheels.
After visiting Songzanlin Temple, taxis or private cars are the best option to continue your journey. You can easily hire a taxi to take you to nearby attractions or back to Shangri-La city.
