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The Hami Yaerdang Scenic Area, located in Wubao Township, Yizhou District, Hami Prefecture, Xinjiang, boasts dizzyingly steep cliffs. At nightfall, the terrifying howling of ghosts and wolves is heard, earning it the nickname "Devil City." The Yaerdang Scenic Area, divided into four sections: East, South, West, and North, is a natural scenic area boasting six beaches and sixteen scenic spots. The area boasts numerous sights resembling castles, palaces, pagodas, monuments, figures, and animals, attracting numerous visitors.
Temperate continental climate, summer
Hami Mingsha Mountain, 1 hour
40 yuan
8:00-20:00
Cibalakhang Temple is one of the most important religious sites in Lhasa, Tibet. It is known for its historical significance in Tibetan Buddhism. The temple is dedicated to the protector deity Mahakala and plays a key role in the spiritual life of the locals, especially during important Buddhist festivals.
The Cibalakhang Temple is located in the heart of Lhasa, a short drive from the Potala Palace. You can take a taxi or local bus to get there. It is also accessible on foot from central Lhasa, which is about a 20-minute walk from the Barkhor Street area.
The temple is generally open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late afternoon, as the temple is less crowded and the lighting is ideal for photography.
The entrance fee to Cibalakhang Temple is usually around 30-50 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the temple entrance, and no online booking is required.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary. Tickets can be bought on the spot at the temple entrance.
A visit to Cibalakhang Temple typically takes about 1-2 hours, depending on your interest in exploring the temple's details, art, and learning about its history.
Guided tours are available and typically offered in both Chinese and English. Local monks or knowledgeable guides can provide insights into the temple's history and significance.
The best photography spots include the main prayer hall and the surrounding courtyards, where you can capture the beauty of the architecture against the backdrop of the Lhasa valley.
Start by entering the main hall to admire the sculptures and paintings. Then, walk around the inner courtyards, stopping to observe the Mahakala shrine. Finally, take in the views from the outer terraces, which offer great vantage points over the city of Lhasa.
Night visits and light shows are not offered at Cibalakhang Temple. It is mainly a daytime destination for quiet reflection and exploration.
The temple can get moderately crowded, especially during Buddhist festivals. The least crowded times are early mornings or later in the afternoon, during weekdays.
There are basic facilities like toilets and drinking water. You can find small shops near the temple selling religious souvenirs and Tibetan handicrafts. However, there are no large restaurants or cafes inside the temple itself.
While the temple is located on relatively flat terrain, the steps leading to some parts may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. It is accessible for children, but they should be supervised in the temple grounds.
Cash is preferred, especially for small purchases or donations inside the temple. Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay may be accepted at nearby shops or restaurants in Lhasa.
Nearby, you can find various Tibetan restaurants and small cafes offering local cuisine, such as momo (dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), and butter tea. Some recommended spots include the Yak Restaurant and Lhasa Kitchen.
Vegetarian options are widely available, especially in Tibetan restaurants. Vegan and halal options may be limited, but they can be found in some Lhasa eateries catering to international visitors.
There are souvenir shops near the temple and around Barkhor Street selling traditional Tibetan items such as prayer wheels, Buddhist statues, thangka paintings, and handmade jewelry.
After visiting Cibalakhang Temple, the best way to continue your trip is by taxi or private car to other attractions such as Potala Palace or Jokhang Temple. Lhasa's bus system is also available for some destinations.
