
Located on a hillside north of the county seat, Changqingchun Ker Temple is the largest Tibetan Buddhist temple in Ganzi Prefecture. Changqingchun Ker is a transliteration of the Tibetan language. "Changqing" means Maitreya Buddha (the future Buddha), and "Chun Ker" means Dharma Wheel. "Changqingchun Ker" means Maitreya Buddha's Dharma Wheel (symbolizing the ever-changing Dharma Wheel and the eternal existence of the profound truth).
The temple, covering over 500 mu (approximately 1,000 acres), faces south, backed by the sacred mountains of Bengre and Duowenzheng. Composed of three buildings, it houses a collection of various gilded bronze statues of Sakyamuni, Buddhist texts, and murals from the Ming and Qing dynasties. Its architectural style is strikingly different from that of temples in Han Chinese areas, creating a breathtaking spectacle.
Every year in the sixth month of the Tibetan calendar (now July 10th on the Gregorian calendar), when flowers are in full bloom and grass is lush and green, Litang celebrates its traditional ethnic festival, spearheaded by Changqingchun Khor Monastery. The largest and most ceremonious "Zhu Bi Ri Xiao" (June circumambulation of the mountain) is held according to ancient customs to worship the sacred mountain. This is accompanied by a 10-day horse racing event, creating a lively atmosphere.
The butter sculpture festival on the fifteenth day of the first lunar month in the Tibetan calendar every year is known as "the unique wonder of Kham region".
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Changqingchun Kerr Temple is a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Sichuan's Ganzi region. It serves as an important religious and cultural site for the local Tibetan community, preserving traditional rituals, architecture, and art. It is also significant as a spiritual center attracting pilgrims and visitors interested in Tibetan Buddhism.
The temple is located in Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province. Visitors usually reach it by car or local bus from nearby towns. Taxis and private vehicles are recommended due to limited public transport. Walking around the temple grounds is feasible for sightseeing.
The temple is generally open during daylight hours, approximately 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is spring and autumn when weather is mild and the landscape is scenic.
Entrance fees are usually modest (around 20–50 RMB) and tickets are purchased at the temple entrance. Online booking is rarely available for small temples.
Advance booking is generally not required, except during major festivals or holidays when visitor numbers increase.
1–2 hours are sufficient to explore the main halls, temple grounds, and surrounding scenic areas.
Guided tours are limited and often conducted in Chinese. Visitors can hire local guides or join small group tours. Audio guides are typically not available.
Enter through the main gate, visit the primary prayer hall, explore side halls and courtyards, walk around the grounds, and end with scenic viewpoints outside the temple.
Night visits and light shows are generally not available. Special tours may coincide with Tibetan festivals or religious ceremonies.
The temple is usually quiet except during Tibetan festivals or weekends. Weekdays are the least crowded times to visit.
The temple grounds are mostly accessible, but uneven terrain and stairs may limit access for those with mobility issues. Children can explore with supervision.
Cash is recommended, especially for entrance fees and small purchases. Cards and mobile payments may not be widely accepted.
Restaurants are limited; small local eateries serving Tibetan cuisine are nearby. No large cafes inside the temple.
Vegetarian options are available in local Tibetan-style eateries. Halal options may be limited, so plan accordingly.
Private cars or taxis are recommended to reach nearby towns or attractions. Local buses may operate between major villages and towns.