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Located on Zhaji Road in the northern suburbs of Lhasa, Zhaji Temple is the only temple dedicated to the God of Wealth in Tibet. Although small, it is incredibly popular. Incense is poured in daily, and if you visit on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, the crowds are simply incredible.
When Zhaji Temple was first built, it wasn't dedicated to the God of Wealth. Most of the worshippers were migrant workers who came to Lhasa to do business or work. These businessmen felt that the deities were very effective after their visits. As Lhasa developed and innovated, their business flourished. Thus, through word of mouth, Zhaji Temple became the most effective temple for seeking wealth.
Inside a small Buddhist hall on the second floor of Zhaji Monastery, a fortune-telling divination stick is permanently placed. Some Tibetans shake the stick to predict good or bad luck, while a nearby lama helps them find solutions based on scriptures. This form of fortune-telling is rare in Tibetan areas.
Pray to the God of Wealth on Mondays, pray for safety on Wednesdays, and pray for health on Fridays
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Zhaji Temple is an important Buddhist site in Tibet, known for its deep spiritual significance to the Tibetan people. It has been a center for religious learning and meditation for centuries and remains a pilgrimage site for many Buddhist practitioners.
Zhaji Temple is located in Lhasa, Tibet. It can be accessed by taxi or private vehicle from Lhasa's city center. Public transportation options are limited, so taxis or organized tours are the most convenient way to reach the temple.
The temple is open from 8 AM to 6 PM daily. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant and the temple is not overcrowded.
The entrance fee is typically around 20-30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the temple entrance.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance for Zhaji Temple. However, during peak tourist seasons or festivals, it may be advisable to buy tickets early to avoid long lines.
You can explore Zhaji Temple in about 1-2 hours, depending on how long you wish to spend meditating or observing the surroundings.
Guided tours are available, with local guides often offering explanations in Chinese and Tibetan. English-speaking guides may be available during peak tourist seasons, but it's best to inquire in advance.
Start with a visit to the main prayer hall, then explore the courtyard and surrounding gardens. Take some time to relax and meditate before heading to the roof for panoramic views of the area.
There are no night visits or light shows at Zhaji Temple. The temple closes by 6 PM, and the best way to experience its atmosphere is during the day.
Zhaji Temple can get crowded during major Tibetan festivals and holidays. The least crowded times to visit are early in the morning or on weekdays, especially outside the peak tourist season.
While the temple is generally accessible, it may be challenging for visitors with mobility issues due to stairs and uneven terrain. Elderly and children can enjoy the temple’s peaceful grounds, but should be cautious when walking around the temple itself.
Cash is commonly used at the temple, though mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are increasingly accepted at nearby shops. It is recommended to carry some cash in RMB for entrance fees and small purchases.
Vegetarian options are available in Tibetan cuisine, particularly vegetable momos, lentil soup, and Tibetan barley dishes. Halal food options are limited, but there may be some restaurants in Lhasa offering Muslim-friendly meals.
Yes, there are souvenir shops near the temple selling Tibetan handicrafts, religious items like prayer wheels and beads, and local textiles such as thangkas (religious paintings) and scarves.
