Live Your Best Lives
Xiaqiong Temple in Qinghai is a serene and historic Buddhist temple offering visitors the chance to explore its ancient architecture, peaceful surroundings, and rich cultural heritage. Recommended activities include visiting the temple's main halls, meditating in its tranquil courtyards, and enjoying the scenic views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
Xiaqiong Temple, founded in 1394, is one of the oldest Tibetan Buddhist temples in Qinghai and the birthplace of Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug School of Tibetan Buddhism. The temple is situated on a secluded and elegant site, with the cliff behind the temple shaped like a vulture about to take flight, hence the name "Xiaqiong Temple."
Since its establishment, Xiaqiong Temple has successively built eleven halls, including the Miaoyin Bodhisattva Hall, Maitreya Hall, Golden Summit Hall, Atisha Hall, Vajra Buddha Hall, Zhizha Buddha Hall, Wusang Hall, Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva Hall, Jianhe Maitreya Hall, Mountain Buddha Hall, and Dharma Protector Hall, forming an ancient building complex that combines Han and Tibetan artistic styles. The overall architecture is solemn and elegant, magnificent, well-organized, and magnificent.
semi-arid climate of the continental plateau;
Suitable for all seasons
It is recommended to visit for about 1 hour
free
9:00-18:00
Xiaqiong Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple with significant cultural and religious value, often visited by pilgrims. The temple is renowned for its historical architecture and its role as a place of meditation and prayer for locals and visitors alike.
Xiaqiong Temple is located in the rural area of Mutual Aid, Qinghai. The easiest way to reach the temple is by taxi or private car from the nearest town. Public transportation is limited, so planning ahead for a direct route is recommended.
The temple is generally open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and experience the temple in peaceful light, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Entrance to Xiaqiong Temple is free of charge, although donations are encouraged to help with maintenance. No ticket purchase is required, and visitors can simply enter upon arrival.
No advance booking is required for Xiaqiong Temple, as it does not charge an entrance fee. However, it is advisable to plan your visit, especially during peak tourist seasons or religious festivals, to avoid overcrowding.
You will need approximately 1 to 2 hours to fully explore Xiaqiong Temple, including visiting the main halls, walking around the temple grounds, and enjoying the scenic views.
The must-see highlights of Xiaqiong Temple include the main prayer hall, the serene courtyard, and the surrounding natural scenery. The temple's ancient architectural details, such as carvings and Buddhist statues, are also worth noting.
Guided tours may be available at the temple upon request, though they are typically offered in Mandarin. Audio guides are not commonly available, so it’s recommended to either explore independently or check for any volunteer guides on-site.
Best photography spots include the temple’s outer courtyards with views of the surrounding mountains, the main prayer hall, and the temple’s tranquil gardens. Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photos.
A recommended route is to start by visiting the main prayer hall, then explore the temple’s inner courtyards. From there, you can walk around the outer paths to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty and panoramic views.
Night visits or light shows are not offered at Xiaqiong Temple. The temple is best visited during daylight hours to appreciate the architectural and natural surroundings.
Xiaqiong Temple is generally not very crowded, but it can get busier during public holidays or religious festivals. The least crowded times are weekday mornings, especially in the off-peak tourist season.
The temple provides basic facilities like toilets and resting areas. There are no food or water vendors on-site, so it’s advisable to bring your own water and snacks. No shops are available at the temple, but nearby towns may have local vendors.
The temple grounds are generally accessible, but some parts may have uneven terrain, which can be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors. Children may enjoy the open spaces and nature, though the site is primarily a place of quiet reflection.
Cash is typically accepted for donations, as mobile payments and credit card facilities may not be available on-site. It's advisable to carry cash for any donations or small expenses.
There are no restaurants or cafes directly inside the temple, but nearby towns offer local dining options serving Tibetan and Qinghai specialties, such as yak meat and barley-based dishes.
Vegetarian options are likely available in local restaurants nearby, though vegan and halal options may be more limited. It's best to check with local eateries for specific dietary preferences.
There are a few guesthouses and budget hotels in the nearby town of Mutual Aid. For more comfortable accommodations, you may consider staying in larger cities like Xining, which is about 2-3 hours by car.
Nearby attractions include the Kumbum Monastery, Qinghai Lake, and the Tibetan Plateau. These can easily be combined into a day trip or overnight stay for a complete cultural experience in the region.
There are no souvenir shops within the temple grounds. However, local shops nearby may sell religious artifacts, Tibetan handicrafts, and prayer beads as typical souvenirs.
The best way to continue your trip after visiting Xiaqiong Temple is by taxi or private car to nearby attractions. If you’re returning to Xining, you can take a bus or arrange for a taxi ride back to the city.
