Manbala Monastery

Introducing Manbala Temple

La Seng Temple, located on Tuhai Mountain in La Sengmiao Town, Hainan District, Wuhai City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, was built in 1790 and boasts a history of over 200 years. Built into the mountainside, it resembles a miniature version of the Potala Palace from a distance. "Manbala" means "medical and sutra-scholarly academy" in Tibetan. Manbala Temple is a place dedicated to the study of medicine and religion. Monks here first study sutras and then medicine (Mongolian medicine), cultivating both medicine and sutras in an effort to achieve high medical proficiency. It is said that dozens of secret Mongolian medicinal recipes were developed here, making it a sacred site of Tibetan Buddhism primarily focused on the study of Mongolian medicine. Due to damage during the Cultural Revolution, the temple remains, with only the main hall, the Medicine Buddha Pagoda, the Dharma Protector Hall, and the cave remaining. Later, the government approved and designated Manbala Temple as the only Gelugpa (Lamaism) religious venue in Wuhai. With the support of monks and believers, the fourth Xiazhong Gala Shengsha Deribudanbini has comprehensively restored the temple, which is now fully operational. Nowadays, every temple fair is packed with people, and there are also endless tourists coming to worship and sightsee.

Climate and best time to travel

Climate: Temperate continental climate

Recommended time to visit: Summer and autumn are the best

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

About 1 hour

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Manbala Monastery

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

Manbala Monastery is a significant Tibetan Buddhist site in Wuhai, Inner Mongolia. It has been an important center for the spiritual life of the region, known for its traditional Tibetan architectural style and its role in preserving Tibetan Buddhism in Inner Mongolia.

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

Manbala Monastery is located in Wuhai, Inner Mongolia. Visitors can reach the monastery by taxi or private car. Public transportation options might be limited, so it is recommended to hire a taxi or rent a car for convenience.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The monastery is generally open from 9 AM to 5 PM. The best times to visit are in spring or autumn when the weather is mild, and it is less crowded. Early mornings or late afternoons are quieter for a peaceful experience.

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

The entrance fee is typically around 30-50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or through local tour operators, and online bookings may also be available during peak tourist seasons.

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

It is not necessary to book tickets in advance unless visiting during peak tourist seasons. Booking a few days ahead is recommended during busy times like national holidays.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Manbala Monastery typically takes about 1-2 hours to explore the grounds and experience the spiritual atmosphere, depending on your interest in photography and interaction with monks.

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

Key highlights include the grand prayer hall, the peaceful courtyards, and the intricate Buddhist statues and murals. The surrounding mountains and scenic views are also worth exploring.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some may offer limited English language support. Audio guides may be provided in Mandarin, and it’s best to check availability upon arrival.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are the prayer hall, the surrounding hills, and the vibrant prayer flags. The panoramic views of the monastery and its serene surroundings provide excellent opportunities for photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

The recommended route is to start at the main entrance, explore the prayer hall, walk through the courtyards, and then head to the outer areas where the mountain views and prayer flags are located.

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

Night visits or light shows are not available at the monastery. It is primarily a daytime attraction, with spiritual activities taking place during the day.

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

The monastery can get crowded on weekends and during holidays. The least crowded times are weekdays, especially in the mornings, outside of peak travel seasons.

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

The monastery has basic facilities such as restrooms and a few shops selling religious items and souvenirs. There are no major restaurants on-site, but small snack vendors may be available near the entrance.

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

The monastery is accessible for most visitors, but some parts may involve walking up steps or uneven paths. Elderly visitors or those with mobility issues may find certain areas challenging.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly accepted at the monastery. However, mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are also widely used. Credit cards may not be accepted in smaller shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Nearby restaurants offer traditional Mongolian and Chinese cuisine, including hotpot and lamb dishes. There are no cafes inside the monastery, but local dining options can be found within a short drive.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options may be available at nearby restaurants, especially in local eateries that cater to Buddhist practices. Halal food options might be more limited in the area.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels in Wuhai, offering a range of options from budget to mid-range. Some hotels may offer cultural experiences or tours to the monastery as part of their packages.

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

Nearby attractions include the Wuhai Museum, the Yellow River, and local parks. A day trip can easily combine visits to Manbala Monastery and these cultural landmarks.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops selling religious artifacts, Buddhist statues, prayer beads, and traditional Mongolian crafts such as textiles and jewelry.

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

The best options for continuing your trip are by taxi, private car, or local buses to nearby attractions or back to Wuhai city center. Public transport options might be limited depending on the area.