Panlong Temple

Introducing Panlong Temple

Panlong Temple is located on Panlong Mountain on the east bank of Dianchi Lake, about 40 kilometers from Kunming city and 3 kilometers southeast of Jincheng Town, Jinning County. Together with Kunming West Mountain and Binchuan Jizu Mountain, it is known as the three major Buddhist holy sites in Yunnan. In 1983, it was announced as a key cultural relic protection unit in Kunming City.

Panlong Temple is nestled against a mountainside. Within the mountain gate, there are the First, Second, and Third Heaven Gates, as well as over 20 courtyards, including the Welcoming Immortal Bridge, the Sleeping Buddha Hall, the Lü Zu Hall, the Patriarch Hall, the Main Hall, the Jade Emperor Pavilion, the Jialan Hall, and the Medicine Master Hall. Deities from Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism are enshrined here. Panlong Patriarch Hall, the Medicine Master Hall, and the Guanyin Hall are the most popular. The temple is surrounded by lush trees, with camellias and pines and cypresses being the most famous. The former Wansong Temple now houses a tall, sea-viewing tower, offering panoramic views of Dianchi Lake.

Panlong Temple is hidden atop the tranquil Panlong Mountain. To ascend this Buddhist wonderland, one must pass through four gates. First, exit Jincheng East Gate, where the "Southern Yunnan Spiritual Realm" memorial archway stands, marking the entrance. Then, passing the ruins of Xiangshan Academy, one enters Panlong Mountain Gate, the "mountain" gate. Then, passing Yingshan Lake, the path spirals upward, passing through three gates, the "heaven" gate. Finally, passing the Sleeping Buddha Hall and Lü Zu Pavilion, one arrives at the Panlong Temple Gate, the "Buddhist" gate, the "Taoist" gate, and the "holy" gate. Entering these four gates, one is transported beyond the mundane world, as if entering a fairyland. Panlong is home to outstanding people and a land of extraordinary beauty.

Every year on the first day of the eighth lunar month, Panlong Temple holds a temple fair. Thousands of pilgrims and tourists flock to the temple to worship Buddha and attend the fair. The majority of these visitors come from Kunming, Chenggong, Kunyang, and Yuxi, creating a lively atmosphere unmatched by any other temple fair in Kunming.

Climate and best time to travel

The low-latitude plateau has a subtropical monsoon climate; Panlong Temple is one of the most popular temples in Kunming. It is solemn and majestic, with charming scenery, and is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

The first, second and third heaven gates, the Welcoming Immortal Bridge, the Sleeping Buddha Hall, the Lü Zu Hall, the Patriarch Hall and the Main Hall;

It is recommended to play for 2-3 hours

Tickets

8 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

The temple gate opens at 7:00 and closes at night.

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Most Popular FAQs for Panlong Temple

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

Panlong Temple, located in Kunming, Yunnan, is a significant historical and cultural site. It is dedicated to the Buddha and is known for its ancient architecture, rich cultural heritage, and serene atmosphere. The temple has been an important religious center for centuries.

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

Panlong Temple is located in the outskirts of Kunming, Yunnan. The easiest way to reach the temple is by taxi or private car. Public buses also connect to nearby locations, but taxis are generally more convenient for direct access. Walking is also an option if you are nearby.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.

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

The entrance fee to Panlong Temple is approximately 20 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site, and it is not necessary to buy them in advance. However, check for any special events or holidays that may require prior booking.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not required for individual visitors, though it is a good idea for groups or during busy holiday periods. Typically, booking a day or two in advance is sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Panlong Temple usually takes 1-2 hours, allowing enough time to explore the temple grounds, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, and take in the surrounding nature.

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

The main highlights include the grand hall, the statue of Buddha, the intricate temple carvings, and the surrounding gardens. The panoramic views from the temple grounds are also a must-see.

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

Guided tours are available, and they are generally conducted in Mandarin. If you require an English-speaking guide, it's recommended to arrange this in advance. Audio guides may not be available.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots include the temple’s entrance, the statue of Buddha, and the surrounding gardens with their scenic views. The elevated spots within the temple offer panoramic views of the area.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the temple’s entrance and explore the main hall. Then, walk around the gardens and visit the surrounding smaller shrines. Conclude with a visit to the elevated viewpoints to enjoy the full view of the surroundings.

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

Night visits are not available, and there are no light shows at the temple. However, special events or ceremonies may be held during certain religious festivals, which could offer a unique experience.

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

The temple can get busy on weekends and during national holidays. The least crowded times are early in the morning or on weekdays, especially outside of peak tourist seasons.

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

Basic facilities such as toilets are available on-site. There are no major food outlets, but you can find small local vendors selling snacks and drinks near the temple entrance. Rest areas are available in the gardens.

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

Panlong Temple is relatively accessible, but some areas, especially around the gardens and elevated viewpoints, may require walking on uneven paths. Elderly or disabled visitors may find some parts challenging.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted at the temple for entrance fees and purchases. However, mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are also commonly used in the area. Credit cards may not always be accepted.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no major restaurants inside the temple complex, but there are a few local restaurants nearby offering traditional Yunnan cuisine. Some cafes are available in Kunming city, which is a short drive away.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in Kunming, especially at restaurants serving Yunnan cuisine. Halal food options may be available in the city, but not necessarily near the temple.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are various hotels in Kunming, including options for budget and luxury stays. For proximity, it’s best to stay in central Kunming, where accommodations are abundant and easily accessible to the temple.

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

Other nearby attractions include the Green Lake, Yuantong Temple, and the Stone Forest. These sites can be easily combined for a day trip in the Kunming area.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are no souvenir shops within the temple, but local markets in Kunming offer a range of souvenirs, such as tea, textiles, and handmade crafts from Yunnan.

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

Taxis are the most convenient way to continue your trip from the temple. Public transportation such as buses also connects to central Kunming, where you can access more transportation options to other attractions.