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At White Horse Temple (Haidong), visitors can explore the ancient Buddhist architecture, stroll through its peaceful courtyards, and enjoy moments of reflection in the tranquil environment. The temple is also a great place to observe Buddhist rituals and enjoy the scenic surroundings of the area.
Located on the north bank of the Huangshui River in Hongyazigou, Huzhu Tu Autonomous County, Qinghai Province, White Horse Temple, formerly known as Jingangya Temple and called Mazangguan in Tibetan, was built in the 11th century. Legend has it that its founding is associated with Laqin Gongba Raosai, the initiator of the Buddhist revival movement known in Tibetan Buddhist history as the "Lower Path Spreading." A clay statue of his Buddha was once enshrined in the temple.
At the foot of the cliff lies a stone Buddha statue, known in Tibetan as Maitreya Wanghe. The statue is simple and robust, with a bowl in its left hand and a push gesture with its right, symbolizing the ancient working people's desire to eliminate floods. A white pagoda nestled amidst greenery complements the ancient stone Buddha, creating a unique and harmonious whole.
Plateau mountain climate;
Suitable for all seasons
It is recommended to visit for about 1 hour
free
9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
White Horse Temple (Haidong) is an important Buddhist temple located in Qinghai, known for its rich history and cultural significance. It is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in the region, with roots dating back to the introduction of Buddhism to China. The temple is a symbol of the deep connection between Buddhism and the local culture.
The temple is located in Haidong, Qinghai, in the region of Mutual Aid. Visitors can reach the temple by taxi or private car from Xining or nearby towns. Public transportation options may be limited, so it’s recommended to arrange private transport.
White Horse Temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the temple.
There is no entrance fee for White Horse Temple. Donations are welcome, but tickets are not required to enter the temple. Visitors can make donations directly on-site.
No, you do not need to book tickets in advance to visit White Horse Temple. Simply arrive at the temple during its open hours.
Visitors typically need about 1 to 2 hours to fully explore White Horse Temple, including visiting the main halls, walking around the courtyards, and taking in the surrounding natural beauty.
The must-see highlights at White Horse Temple include the main prayer halls, the beautiful courtyards, and the ancient Buddhist sculptures. The surrounding mountains and natural scenery are also a key attraction.
Guided tours are available at the temple upon request, typically in Mandarin. Audio guides are not commonly available, so it’s advisable to either explore independently or arrange for a local guide in advance.
Great photography spots include the outer courtyards with views of the surrounding mountains, the main prayer halls, and the peaceful temple grounds. Early morning and late afternoon offer the best lighting for photographs.
The recommended route is to start by visiting the main prayer halls, then take a walk through the inner courtyards. Afterward, explore the outer areas and enjoy the panoramic views of the mountains and natural surroundings.
Night visits, light shows, or special tours are not available at White Horse Temple. It is best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the temple and its serene atmosphere.
White Horse Temple is typically not very crowded, especially on weekdays. The least crowded times are early in the morning or late in the afternoon, particularly outside of peak tourist seasons.
The temple provides basic facilities such as toilets and resting areas. There are no food or water vendors on-site, so it’s advisable to bring your own supplies. No shops are available at the temple, but local shops can be found in nearby towns.
The temple grounds are generally accessible, but there may be some uneven terrain that could be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can enjoy the open spaces and natural beauty of the area.
Cash is accepted for donations and small purchases. Mobile payments and credit cards may not be accepted on-site, so it is best to carry cash for donations.
There are no restaurants or cafes directly within the temple grounds, but nearby towns offer local dining options that serve Qinghai and Tibetan cuisine, such as noodle soups and yak meat dishes.
Vegetarian and vegan options may be available at local restaurants in nearby towns. Halal food options are limited but can be found in certain areas in the region.
There are several budget guesthouses and hotels in nearby towns such as Xining. For more luxurious accommodations, visitors can stay in larger cities like Xining, which is around 1-2 hours away by car.
Nearby attractions include the Kumbum Monastery, the Tibetan Plateau, and Qinghai Lake. These landmarks can be easily included in a day trip or extended stay in the region.
There are no souvenir shops directly at the temple, but local shops in nearby towns offer traditional Tibetan crafts, religious artifacts, prayer beads, and other local souvenirs.
To continue your trip after visiting, taxis and private cars are the best options. Public transportation can be limited, so it is recommended to arrange transport in advance if traveling to other destinations like Qinghai Lake or Xining.
