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Qiagaqude Monastery, built in the late 16th century and belonging to the Gelugpa sect, is located in Rong Township, Sangri County, and covers an area of 2,000 square meters. Built at the behest of the Third Dalai Lama, it features numerous murals covering a wide range of subjects. While the monks' quarters have been destroyed, the main hall remains relatively well preserved.
Suitable for all seasons;
The plateau has a semi-arid monsoon climate, with a short, cool warm season and a long, cold cold season. The four seasons are distinct, with little precipitation. There is more night rain in the summer half of the year, and the rainfall is unevenly distributed.
It is recommended to play for 1-3 hours;
Attractions: Mowujue Temple, Zhegu Lake, Lhasa Doren Altar Ruins, etc.
free
Open all day
Chaga Qude Temple is an important Tibetan Buddhist monastery in the Shannan Prefecture, Tibet. Known for its historical significance, it serves as a spiritual center for the Tibetan community. The temple is dedicated to preserving Tibetan Buddhist traditions and teachings, with a strong emphasis on meditation and religious practices.
Chaga Qude Temple is located in the Shannan Prefecture of Tibet. The easiest way to reach it is by taking a bus or taxi from Lhasa, the nearest city. While public transportation is available, hiring a private car or joining a tour group may be more convenient for visitors unfamiliar with the area.
The temple is open to visitors year-round. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months (April-May, September-October), when the weather is milder. Avoid winter visits as heavy snow can make the area difficult to access.
There is no formal entrance fee to visit Chaga Qude Temple. However, donations are appreciated to help maintain the temple. Special tours or access to certain areas may have a small fee, which can be paid directly at the site.
Booking tickets in advance is not typically required for entry to the temple itself. However, if you plan to join a guided tour or visit during peak tourist seasons, it's recommended to book a few days in advance to secure your spot.
You will need about 1.5 to 2 hours to explore Chaga Qude Temple thoroughly, including time for reflection and prayer rituals. If you're interested in hiking or exploring the surrounding areas, you may want to extend your visit by an additional couple of hours.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and Tibetan. English-speaking guides may be arranged in advance, but it's recommended to book them through a local tour operator for convenience.
Start by exploring the main prayer hall, where you can witness Buddhist rituals. Then, walk through the courtyards to see the various meditation spaces. Conclude your visit by taking a moment to reflect in one of the quiet areas of the temple, where you can enjoy the serene environment.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Chaga Qude Temple. However, special prayer ceremonies are held on certain dates, which may provide a unique experience for visitors interested in the spiritual practices of Tibetan Buddhism.
Chaga Qude Temple is generally not overcrowded, especially compared to more popular tourist sites in Tibet. Weekdays and non-festival periods are the least crowded times to visit. It’s best to avoid major Tibetan Buddhist holidays when the temple may see an influx of local visitors.
The temple offers basic facilities, including public toilets. There are no major food or water facilities on-site, so it's recommended to bring your own supplies. You may find small local shops near the temple selling souvenirs and snacks.
While the temple is open to all visitors, the terrain around Chaga Qude Temple can be challenging, particularly for elderly or disabled visitors. The area is hilly, and some parts of the temple complex may be difficult to navigate for those with mobility issues. Children and healthy visitors will have no trouble exploring the site.
Cash is the preferred method of payment at Chaga Qude Temple, and mobile payments or credit cards are generally not accepted. It's advisable to carry Tibetan Yuan in cash for any donations or small purchases.
There are no restaurants or cafes inside the temple complex. However, in nearby towns, you'll find simple Tibetan eateries serving local dishes such as momo (dumplings) and thukpa (noodle soup).
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in nearby restaurants, particularly dishes based on vegetables, barley, and tofu. Halal food options may be limited, but vegetarian food is commonly served.
There are no hotels directly at the temple, but nearby towns such as Tsedang offer a range of accommodations, including guesthouses and mid-range hotels. You can stay in these towns and make a day trip to the temple.
Souvenir shops are available in nearby towns, selling Tibetan handicrafts such as prayer beads, thangkas (paintings), and yak wool clothing. These items make for popular and meaningful souvenirs.
