Derge Sutra Printing House

Introducing Derge Sutra Printing House

The Derge Sutra Printing House, located within the Gengqing Monastery, a Sakya monastery in Derge County, Sichuan Province, is renowned for its extensive collection of books, encompassing a wide range of disciplines and offering a diverse range of religious denominations. It has been dubbed the "Encyclopedia of Tibetan Culture," "The Shining Cultural Pearl of the Tibetan Region," and "A Treasure House Beneath the Snow-capped Mountains."

The Sutra Printing House boasts a unique structure, with towering red walls and swaying green trees, creating a tranquil and magnificent atmosphere. Near the gate, the ground floor and basement are located, while the main building comprises two floors, each with a staggered layout, reflecting a typical Tibetan architectural style. The courtyard is divided into a library for storing printed materials, a paper storage room, a sutra drying room, a plate washing platform, a paper cutting and book preparation room, a Buddhist temple, and a sutra hall.

Climate and best time to travel

The Derge Sutra Printing House only prints sutras for half a year, from the 15th day of the third month to the 20th day of the ninth month in the Tibetan calendar. The best time to visit the printing house is in the morning, as printing ends at 4 p.m.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended visit time: 2-3 hours

Tickets

50 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

8:30-12:00; 14:30-17:30

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Most Popular FAQs for Derge Sutra Printing House

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

The Dege Parkhang Sutra-Printing House, established in 1729 by Chokyi Tenpa Tsering, is a pivotal institution in Tibetan culture. It houses over 320,000 woodblocks, preserving a vast array of Tibetan scriptures, including Buddhist texts and other cultural works. Recognized for its cultural importance, it was included in UNESCO's Asia-Pacific Regional Register of Memory of the World in 2024 .

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

The Dege Parkhang Sutra-Printing House is situated in Dege County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, China. It is accessible via local taxis or buses from the Dege County center. The nearest major city is Kangding, approximately 200 kilometers away, from where one can take a bus or hire a taxi to Dege .

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The printing house operates from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM and 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM. The best times to visit are during the months of April, May, September, and October, when the weather is more favorable .

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

The entrance fee is 50 yuan. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance of the Dege Parkhang Sutra-Printing House .

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

It is not mandatory to book tickets in advance. Visitors can purchase tickets upon arrival at the Dege Parkhang Sutra-Printing House .

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Visitors typically spend about 2 hours exploring the Dege Parkhang Sutra-Printing House to fully appreciate its cultural and historical significance .

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

Key highlights include:

• The extensive collection of woodblocks used for printing Tibetan scriptures.
• The Great Sutra Library and Small Sutra Library, housing numerous Buddhist texts.
• The intricately carved wooden beams and colorful frescoes adorning the building.
• The workshops where monks and artisans continue traditional printing practices.

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

Guided tours are available, offering insights into the history and significance of the printing house. While specific language availability may vary, English-speaking guides can often be arranged with prior notice. It's advisable to contact the site in advance to confirm language options.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Optimal photography spots include:

• The main courtyard, providing a panoramic view of the building's architecture.
• Interior spaces showcasing the intricate woodblock carvings and frescoes.
• Workshops where traditional printing techniques are demonstrated.

Photography is generally permitted, but it's recommended to inquire about any restrictions upon arrival.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A suggested itinerary is as follows:

• Begin at the main entrance and explore the outer courtyard.
• Visit the Great Sutra Library and Small Sutra Library to view the collections.
• Tour the workshops where printing is actively practiced.
• Conclude with a walk around the perimeter to appreciate the architecture and surrounding scenery.

Allow approximately 2 hours to complete this route.

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

Currently, the Dege Parkhang Sutra-Printing House does not offer night visits, light shows, or special tours. Visits are restricted to daylight hours during the specified opening times.

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

The Dege Parkhang Sutra-Printing House can be busy during peak tourist seasons. To avoid crowds, it's best to visit on weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon hours.

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

Basic facilities such as toilets are available on-site. However, there are limited options for food and beverages within the premises. It's advisable to bring water and snacks, especially if planning to spend an extended period exploring the area.

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

The Dege Parkhang Sutra-Printing House is situated in a mountainous region, and the terrain may pose challenges for elderly or disabled visitors. While children can visit, they should be supervised due to the uneven surfaces and stairs. It's recommended to assess individual mobility needs before planning a visit.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly used for transactions at the Dege Parkhang Sutra-Printing House. While some establishments may accept mobile payments, it's advisable to carry sufficient cash, as card acceptance may be limited.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Nearby dining options include:

• Feng Ling Du Youth Hostel – Offers simple meals and snacks.
• Khyenle Guesthouse – Provides Tibetan-style dishes and beverages.
• Yingjinyuan – A local restaurant serving Sichuan cuisine.

It's advisable to check the operating hours and availability of these establishments before planning your visit.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at some local eateries, particularly those offering Tibetan cuisine. However, vegan and halal options may be limited. It's recommended to inquire at individual restaurants about specific dietary requirements.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Accommodations near the Dege Parkhang Sutra-Printing House include:

• Feng Ling Du Youth Hostel – Budget-friendly option with basic amenities.
• Khyenle Guesthouse – Offers comfortable rooms and local hospitality.
• Yingjinyuan – A mid-range hotel with modern facilities.

It's advisable to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

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

Nearby attractions include:

• Manigango – A Tibetan town known for its scenic beauty and cultural significance.
• XiangBaLa BuXingJie – A local shopping street offering traditional Tibetan goods.

These sites can be visited in a day trip, allowing for a comprehensive experience of the region's culture and landscapes.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops in the vicinity offering items such as:

• Tibetan Thangkas – Traditional religious paintings on fabric.
• Handcrafted Jewelry – Made with local materials and designs.
• Prayer Flags – Colorful flags with Buddhist inscriptions.
• Wooden Carvings – Representing various aspects of Tibetan culture.

It's a great place to purchase authentic Tibetan crafts and mementos.