Muyajinta

Introducing Muyajinta

The Muya Golden Pagoda is located in Tagong Township, Xinduqiao Town, Kangding County, Sichuan Province. It was built in 1997 with funds donated by Dorje Zhaxi Living Buddha of Zhuqing Temple, one of the six major Buddhist temples of the Nyingma School (Red Sect). More than 100 kilograms of gold (some say 80 kilograms of gold) were used in its construction. It is said that when the temple was consecrated, colorful auspicious clouds and a seven-color halo appeared in the sky.

Climate and best time to travel

Kangding's geographical latitude suggests a subtropical climate, but its complex topography and pronounced vertical variations create a unique plateau-type continental monsoon climate. With annual precipitation of 800 to 950 mm and a frost-free period of 150 to 250 days, it belongs to the mountainous cool temperate zone.

The eastern part of Kangding City is a mountainous canyon with a subtropical climate. It is rich in resources and is known as the "Khamba Jiangnan"; the western part is a mountainous plain with a plateau continental climate. It is a typical representative of Tibetan customs with cattle and sheep everywhere and temples and pagodas standing in rows.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Outside the pagoda lies a 383-meter-long prayer corridor, equipped with 470 prayer wheels containing 2.2 billion recitations of the Vajrasattva Hundred-Syllable Mantra, a symbol of dispelling obstacles. Surrounding the pagoda are four terraced stupas, each housing 100,000 smaller stupas. Surrounding the pagoda are 158 stupas of eight different types, each containing a rich and complete collection of Buddhist scriptures. Income from these stupas provides a major source of funding for the Xikang Welfare School.

Tickets

10 yuan/person

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Most Popular FAQs for Muyajinta

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

Muyajinta is an important Tibetan Buddhist temple in the Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. It holds spiritual significance for local Tibetans and travelers, being a center for prayer and religious practices. The temple is particularly known for its sacred relics and its connection to the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism.

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

Muyajinta is located in the Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Sichuan. To reach the temple, visitors typically travel to the nearest town, Kangding, which is about 100 kilometers away. From Kangding, taxis or private cars are the best options, as public transport is limited.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Muyajinta is open year-round, typically from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring and summer months (April to October) when the weather is mild, and the natural beauty of the Tibetan plateau is most visible. Winter can be harsh, with cold temperatures and heavy snow.

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

The entrance fee to Muyajinta is around 20-30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased directly at the temple entrance. Online ticketing options are not usually available for this site, so visitors should plan to pay on-site.

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

Booking tickets in advance is generally not necessary for individual visitors. However, for larger groups or visits during peak tourist seasons, it may be helpful to check with local travel agencies or tour operators in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Muyajinta typically takes 1-2 hours, including time to explore the temple and surrounding areas. If you plan to hike or meditate in the surrounding environment, you might want to spend additional time.

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

• The main temple building with its intricate Tibetan Buddhist carvings and statues.
• The sacred prayer halls where local Tibetans perform rituals and ceremonies.
• The surrounding prayer wheels and shrines, which offer a serene atmosphere for reflection.
• Viewpoints with panoramic views of the Tibetan plateau and nearby mountains.

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

Guided tours may be available through local tour operators, often in Mandarin or Tibetan. English-speaking guides are rare, so it's advisable to arrange for a translator if necessary. Audio guides are not typically offered.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The temple’s front entrance offers a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains and prayer flags, ideal for photographs.
• Climbing the small hill behind the temple provides panoramic views of the valley below.
• Photographs of the prayer wheels, especially when Tibetan pilgrims are spinning them, capture the essence of the site.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the main temple, where you can explore the prayer halls and Buddhist relics. Then, take time to walk around the outer areas of the temple, visiting the prayer wheels and enjoying the views of the surrounding landscape. If time allows, a short hike around the site will give you even better perspectives.

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

Night visits or light shows are not available at Muyajinta. However, the temple is peaceful in the evenings, and the surrounding area offers a calm atmosphere for reflection. Special tours may be arranged with advance notice, especially for groups.

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

Muyajinta is not usually very crowded. Weekdays and mornings are generally the least crowded times to visit. The temple is more likely to have visitors during Tibetan Buddhist festivals, weekends, and holiday seasons.

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

• Basic toilets are available at the temple.
• There are a few food vendors offering Tibetan snacks and beverages around the site.
• Rest areas are available for visitors to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
• Souvenir shops around the temple sell Tibetan crafts, prayer beads, and religious items.

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

The terrain around Muyajinta can be rugged, with uneven paths leading to the temple and surrounding areas. While the main temple building is accessible, elderly or disabled visitors may find it challenging to explore the surrounding areas. Children can enjoy the temple and its peaceful environment.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is generally required for entrance fees and purchases at Muyajinta. Mobile payment systems like WeChat Pay and Alipay may be accepted at some local shops, but it’s recommended to carry cash as a backup.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few local Tibetan eateries near Muyajinta, offering traditional dishes like thukpa (noodle soup) and momos (dumplings). For more dining options, visitors can head to the nearby town of Kangding.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian food is available at many local eateries, as Tibetan cuisine often includes vegetable-based dishes. Vegan options can also be found, but halal food may be more limited in the area.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several guesthouses and basic accommodations around Muyajinta, offering a simple and authentic Tibetan experience. For more comfort and options, travelers can stay in Kangding, which is around 1.5 hours away by car.

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

• Kangding, which offers attractions like the Dagu Glacier and Tibetan culture.
• Other monasteries in the Ganzi region that are part of the Tibetan Buddhist circuit.
• The Yala Snow Mountain, a sacred peak and popular hiking destination.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, souvenir shops near the temple sell Tibetan crafts such as prayer beads, prayer wheels, thangkas (religious paintings), and Tibetan jewelry. Religious items like statues and textiles are also common purchases.

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

To continue your journey after visiting Muyajinta, the best option is to hire a taxi or private car. Public transportation is limited, so it's more convenient to travel by car, especially if you plan to explore nearby attractions or return to Kangding.