Live Your Best Lives
Guangzong Temple, also known as "Danjiling" in Tibetan and commonly known as the Southern Temple, is located in a valley at the western foot of the Helan Mountains in Barunbeli, Alxa Left Banner, Alxa League, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. Built along the mountainside, the temple boasts uneven heights and is surrounded by mountains, verdant pines and cypresses, and flowing streams, creating a picturesque landscape.
Built according to the wishes of Tsangyang Gyatso, the temple is renowned in the Mongolian and Tibetan religious circles for housing his remains. A wooden plaque inscribed with Tsangyang Gyatso's famous poems stands in the temple.
After touring the various halls within the temple, you can also explore the rock faces on either side of the temple gate, where colorful Buddha statues are carved into the rock faces. This is the largest stone Buddha sculpture complex in Inner Mongolia. The Helan Mountain Forest behind the temple is also worth a visit. It is a quiet place with very few tourists. Interested visitors can hike here and experience the natural scenery of the Helan Mountains.
Alxa League is best suited for travel in late summer and autumn, when temperatures are comfortable and dust-free.
Recommended play time: 3-4 hours
Peak season ( May -October ): 80 yuan
Off - season ( November to April ) : 40 yuan
8:00-17:00
Guangzong Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple, believed to have been established during the Tang Dynasty. It holds significant cultural and religious value for the local community and pilgrims, showcasing the architectural style and Buddhist art of the period.
Guangzong Temple is located in the Alxa League of Inner Mongolia. The nearest major city is Yinchuan. Visitors typically reach the temple by private vehicle or taxi, as public transport options are limited in this remote area.
Guangzong Temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months (April to October) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for avoiding peak tourist times.
The entrance fee is typically around 30 to 50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance or through local tour operators. It's not common to purchase tickets online for this temple.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for general visits, but if you plan to attend special events or ceremonies, it's advisable to check with the temple management or local tour agencies for availability.
A visit to Guangzong Temple typically takes about 1-2 hours, depending on your interest in the temple's history and artwork. Longer visits are recommended if you wish to explore the surrounding natural area as well.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some tours may be available in English upon request. Audio guides are not commonly provided, but local guides are knowledgeable and can provide detailed information about the temple's history and significance.
Start with the main temple hall to admire the statues and murals. Then, explore the outer temple grounds and the peaceful gardens. Conclude your visit by walking around the temple's perimeter to photograph the scenic views and ancient carvings.
Night visits and light shows are not typically available at Guangzong Temple. However, some special Buddhist ceremonies may take place in the evenings, depending on the time of year and local religious events.
Guangzong Temple is relatively peaceful and less crowded than major tourist attractions. Weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon, are the least crowded times to visit.
Basic facilities such as toilets and water stations are available at the temple. However, food and rest areas are limited, so it’s advisable to bring your own snacks and water if you plan to stay for a longer visit.
The temple has some accessible paths, but due to its traditional architecture and terrain, it may not be fully accessible for visitors with mobility impairments. However, elderly visitors and children can enjoy the temple's courtyard and gardens.
Cash is widely accepted, and mobile payment methods like Alipay and WeChat Pay are also available. Credit cards may not be accepted at smaller, more remote attractions like Guangzong Temple.
There are no major restaurants inside the temple, but small local eateries near the entrance offer traditional Mongolian food. For more dining options, you’ll need to travel to nearby towns like Yinchuan.
Traditional Mongolian cuisine is mostly meat-based, but vegetarian options are available at nearby restaurants. Halal food options are also available in towns around the temple due to the local Muslim population.
There are no major hotels directly near the temple. Visitors typically stay in Yinchuan, where a variety of hotels are available, ranging from budget options to more luxurious accommodations. The drive from Yinchuan to the temple takes about 1-2 hours.
There are small souvenir shops near the temple selling Buddhist-related items, such as prayer beads, incense, and small statues. You can also find traditional Mongolian crafts like leather goods and textiles.
The best options for continuing your trip after visiting the temple are by private car or taxi. Yinchuan offers buses and trains to other parts of Inner Mongolia and China, as well as flights from its airport.
