Gemo Temple

Introducing Gemo Temple

Gemo Monastery, also known as Huiyuan Monastery, is one of the three major Gelugpa monasteries of Tibetan Buddhism in Aba Prefecture, Sichuan Province. It is a branch of Labrang Monastery, one of the six major monasteries of the Yellow Sect. Gemo Monastery is renowned for its grand temple architecture, large pagodas, and mysterious Tibetan esoteric practices. It is located 13 kilometers from the county seat and covers an area of ​​18,000 square meters.

Climate and best time to travel

The temperature in Aba decreases from southeast to northwest and with increasing altitude. The hilly plateau in the northwest has a continental plateau climate, with no significant temperature differences between the four seasons. Winters are cold and long, while summers are cool, cold, and humid, with an average annual temperature of 0.8°C to 4.3°C. The plateau region has a cool, semi-humid climate, with cool summers and cold winters and springs. There are distinct dry and wet seasons, and the climate exhibits vertical variations: high in the mountains, damp and cold, while river valleys are dry and cool, with an average annual temperature of 5.6°C to 8.9°C. In the alpine valleys, the climate varies significantly with altitude, from subtropical to temperate, cold temperate, and frigid. River valleys below 2,500 meters above sea level experience concentrated precipitation and rapid evaporation, creating arid and semi-arid zones. Sloping valleys between 2,500 and 4,100 meters above sea level are in the cold temperate zone, with an average annual temperature of 1°C to 5°C. Above 4,100 meters above sea level, the climate enters the frigid zone, with year-round snow and long winters without summers.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Gemo Temple is located in Gemo Township, Aba County. The entire building combines exoteric and esoteric Buddhism, with more than 600 monks. It is equipped with pagodas, scripture corridors, and prayer halls, and enjoys a high reputation locally.

The seven-story Bodhi Pagoda, facing south, stands 35 meters tall. Surrounding the pagoda are 140 meter-tall brass prayer wheels. The eaves and walls of each floor are decorated with dazzling auspicious motifs such as the Ten Aspects of Freedom, Dharma wheels, and male and female qilins, creating a magnificent and sacred atmosphere.

The first and second floors of the Great Pagoda are connected from top to bottom. In the middle is a 5-meter square altar pillar that goes straight through the top floor of the second floor. Inside the altar are portraits of Master Tsongkhapa, the Sūtra of the Dependent Origin of Saddhatu, and 300 million Buddha statues made of various clays. Four main Buddhas, thousands of Tara statues, and 108 sets of the Tripitaka are also enshrined around the hall. The religious atmosphere created by the architectural decoration inside the hall is rich and quite spectacular.

The third floor of the pagoda is where the temple's treasures are located. In the center of the hall is a golden stupa containing the skull relics of Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug sect. Among Tibetan Buddhist temples, only two temples have Tsongkhapa's relics, one in Tibet and the other is Gemo Temple.

The fourth floor of the pagoda is where the pagoda vase is located. Inside the hall is a statue of Amitabha Buddha that is more than two meters tall and was brought in from Nepal. The inner wall of the pagoda vase is painted with exquisite murals of the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.

The fifth layer is a large square door with overlapping gold plating, which is also the location of the tower gate. The tower gate is surrounded by railings. Pilgrims and tourists can stand inside the railings and have a bird's eye view of the entire temple.

On the sixth floor of the pagoda lie thirteen overlapping Dharma wheels and more than seven thousand small Buddha statues brought in from Mount Wutai, while the seventh floor is the spire, with dripping eaves and sun and moon domes on the outside.

The four-story Grand Sutra Hall at Gemo Monastery can accommodate nearly a thousand people chanting simultaneously. Over 100 thangkas hang in the air and on the pillars, and the interior is decorated with exquisite murals depicting primarily Buddhist images. The second floor houses six smaller sutra halls, four of which serve as places of worship for lamas, while the other two house sutras. The third floor houses the Zu'e Buddha statue, the most revered deity by Gemo monks. It also houses 16 Nidanzu Buddha statues, a Geshe podium, and a resting chamber for living Buddhas from various regions. The fourth floor houses the temple's antiques.

With over 200 years of history, Gemo Monastery is one of the three major Gelugpa monasteries. The temple's lion-shaped decorative details on the pagoda and eaves showcase the majestic awe of Buddhist architecture and exemplify the theocratic system of governance in Aba County. Walking along the long prayer corridor, turning clockwise past each prayer wheel, each containing scriptures and sacred objects blessed by a living Buddha, one can experience the rich religious atmosphere of local believers' devotion to Buddha, their dedication to charity, and their prayers for peace. The Gemo Monastery corridor boasts 36 large prayer wheels and over 1,500 smaller ones. The greater the number of prayer wheels in a temple, the larger it is and the more affluent its followers are.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Gemo Temple

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

Gemo Temple is a significant Tibetan Buddhist site in Sichuan's Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. The temple has been a spiritual center for Tibetan Buddhists for centuries and plays a key role in the religious life of the local community. It is known for its rich history, architecture, and the role it plays in Tibetan Buddhist rituals.

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

Gemo Temple is located in the Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan. The best way to get there is by taxi or private car from the nearby town of Aba. Public transport options are limited, and walking to the temple is not recommended due to its remote location.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The temple is open daily from 7 AM to 6 PM. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late in the afternoon, as the temple is less crowded during these times, allowing for a more peaceful experience.

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

There is no entrance fee for visiting Gemo Temple. Donations are accepted but not mandatory. Tickets are not required, and there are no online booking options.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary, as no formal ticketing system is in place. Visitors can simply show up during operating hours.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes around 1 to 2 hours to explore Gemo Temple, including time for observing the prayer halls, exploring the surrounding areas, and soaking in the atmosphere of the temple.

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

Key highlights include the main prayer hall, the intricate Tibetan murals, and the surrounding courtyards. Don’t miss the smaller shrines, which provide a quieter, more intimate experience.

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

Guided tours may be available, but they are usually offered in Mandarin. English-speaking guides are not common, so it's best to arrange for one in advance if needed.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are from the temple’s upper terraces, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. The temple's architectural details also make for great photo opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the main prayer hall, then explore the surrounding courtyards and smaller shrines. Take time to walk around the temple grounds to appreciate its surroundings and peaceful ambiance.

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

Night visits and light shows are not available. However, the temple is open until 6 PM, and visiting at dusk offers a serene atmosphere.

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

The temple can get crowded during weekends and local festivals. The least crowded times are on weekdays, particularly in the morning or late afternoon.

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

Basic facilities like toilets are available at the temple. However, there are no large food courts or rest areas. Visitors can bring water and snacks, but nearby towns offer more food options. There are small shops selling local Tibetan crafts.

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

The temple is accessible for children and younger visitors, but the pathways and stairs may pose a challenge for elderly or disabled visitors. The terrain is uneven, so those with mobility issues should exercise caution.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is typically used for donations, and mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are accepted. Credit cards are not commonly used at the temple or nearby areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few Tibetan-style restaurants nearby in the town of Aba, offering traditional dishes such as yak meat and butter tea. For more dining options, visitors can head to the town’s main street.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available, particularly in Tibetan dishes like vegetable stews and rice. Vegan and halal options are limited but may be available upon request.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several guesthouses and budget hotels in Aba, offering convenient accommodations for visitors. More comfortable options are available in the town, with easy access to the temple.

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

Nearby attractions include the Aba Tibetan Culture Museum and other Tibetan Buddhist monasteries. You can easily combine a visit to Gemo Temple with other local sites for a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops around the temple selling Tibetan crafts such as prayer beads, thangka paintings, and handmade jewelry. These make for great keepsakes or gifts.

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

After visiting Gemo Temple, you can take a taxi or private car to continue your journey to nearby attractions. Buses are also available from Aba town to other locations in Sichuan.