Grotto Temple

Introducing Cave Temple

The Grotto Temple is located on Xingfu East Road in Ping'an District, Haidong City, Qinghai Province. The temple is no longer in existence, but the remaining grottoes date back to the Northern Wei Dynasty. These are small but well-constructed. There are five caves, carved into red gravel rock, over 5 meters above the ground. Four of them are well-preserved, while one has collapsed. The caves are all rectangular in plan. Within the caves are clay Buddha statues and some murals. Some of the murals are flaking and damaged. Judging by their style, they appear to be from the Song Dynasty. The temple is tentatively dated to the Song Dynasty.

Climate and best time to travel

Temperate continental climate; all seasons are suitable for travel.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for 1-2 hours

Tickets

Free and open

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Grotto Temple

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

The Grotto Temple is a historic Buddhist site in Mutual Aid, Qinghai, featuring ancient carvings and murals. It holds religious, cultural, and artistic significance, reflecting centuries of Buddhist devotion and local heritage.

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

Located in Mutual Aid, Qinghai. Accessible by taxi or local buses from nearby towns. Walking may be needed within the site to reach certain grotto areas.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Open daily, generally from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn for mild weather and clear skies.

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

Entrance fees may apply depending on maintenance and conservation charges. Tickets are usually purchased on-site; online options may be available through local tourism platforms.

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

Advance booking is not usually required except during peak tourist seasons. Booking a few days ahead is recommended if visiting in summer or during local festivals.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–3 hours to walk through the grottoes, view murals, and explore surrounding trails.

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

• Main grotto halls with Buddhist statues and carvings
• Cliffside caves with intricate murals
• Scenic viewpoints overlooking the temple complex and surrounding valleys

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

Guided tours may be available in Chinese; audio guides or multilingual options are limited.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Front facade of the grotto temple
• Cliffside caves for unique angles of carvings
• Surrounding hills for panoramic views of the valley and temple

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start from the main entrance, visit the lower grottoes, ascend to cliffside caves, explore murals, then finish at the scenic overlook points.

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

Night visits are generally not allowed. Special tours may be organized during festivals or religious events.

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

Weekdays are less crowded. Peak tourist season is during summer and local festival periods.

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

Basic facilities include restrooms, drinking water points, benches, and small souvenir shops near the entrance. Limited food options are available.

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

Parts of the site involve uneven paths and stairs; elderly and disabled visitors may need assistance. Children should be supervised near cliff edges.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is recommended for entrance fees and small purchases. Mobile payments are increasingly accepted in nearby ticket offices or shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Small local restaurants and teahouses are located near the temple entrance, serving basic meals and snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options may be available due to Buddhist influence. Halal options may require visiting nearby towns.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Local guesthouses and small hotels are available in Mutual Aid town, offering basic amenities for overnight stays.

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

• Nearby Buddhist temples and monasteries
• Local natural scenic areas such as valleys and hills
• Mutual Aid town cultural sites

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops near the entrance offer religious charms, postcards, miniature statues, and local handicrafts.

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

Taxis, local buses, and ride-hailing apps are the most convenient ways to reach other attractions or nearby towns.