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Arou Temple is a peaceful Buddhist site known for its stunning architecture and spiritual ambiance. Visitors can explore the temple's serene halls, participate in prayer ceremonies, and enjoy the quiet surroundings perfect for meditation and reflection. It's also a great spot for photography, particularly the intricate details of the temple’s statues and artwork.
Arou Monastery, also known as the "Alike Monastery," is located 21 kilometers southeast of Babao Town in Qilian County. Tourists traveling from Qilian to Menyuan and other destinations often pass through here. Originally built during the Shunzhi reign of the Qing Dynasty, the monastery began on a relatively small scale. By the 1940s, with the support of Arou's chieftain, Namkha Tsangang, and his chieftain, Aduo, it had grown to become the largest Gelugpa monastery in Qilian County.
Rouda Monastery is the largest and most influential Gelugpa monastery of the Yellow Sect in the Qilian region. It primarily comprises a Dharma Protector Temple, an Eight-Treasure Wish-Fulfilling Pagoda, a Grand Sutra Hall, a residence of the resident Living Buddha, and monks' quarters. The Grand Sutra Hall, with its exquisitely carved golden glazed roof and unique shape, exudes a simple and elegant simplicity. Inside, Buddhist lamps flicker, incense wisps wisp, and colorful banners drift. The Sutra Library is solemn and majestic, housing vast volumes of scriptures. The Manikhong Temple, with its orderly red walls and green tiles, is lined with Ruyi Pagodas, each similar in form but distinct in content. The entire complex, with its well-organized layout, serves as both a vital gathering place for Tibetan Buddhists and a renowned tourist attraction in Qilian County.
The temple’s major events include the prayer ceremony in the first month of the year, the fasting meeting in April, the offering meeting and summer activities in June, the Ganden Five Offerings Festival in October, as well as the four seasons of the Sutra Study Session of the Exoteric Buddhism College and the rituals of offering to Vajrabhairava and Hayagriva.
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
free
The temple area is open all day, and the main hall is open from approximately 8:00 to 16:00
Arou Temple is a historically important Buddhist site in Qinghai, known for its deep roots in Tibetan Buddhism. It serves as both a spiritual center for the local Tibetan community and a historical monument, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike for its religious significance.
The temple is located in the Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai. It is accessible by taxi or car from nearby towns, as public transportation options are limited. It’s recommended to hire a private driver or arrange for a guided tour to reach the temple.
The temple is generally open from early morning to late afternoon. The best time to visit is during the spring or summer months when the weather is milder, and religious festivals or ceremonies are held, adding to the cultural experience.
Entrance to Arou Temple is free, though donations are appreciated. Some special ceremonies or tours may require a fee, which can be paid on-site. There is no online ticket system, and visitors can simply pay upon arrival if required.
Tickets or entry to the temple do not require advance booking. However, if you're planning to join a special ceremony or require a guide, it’s recommended to arrange this in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
You can explore Arou Temple in about 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest in the temple's religious activities, architecture, and the surrounding area. Spending more time can also allow you to immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere and meditate.
Must-see highlights include the main prayer hall, intricate statues, thangkas, and beautiful murals depicting Tibetan Buddhist stories. The courtyard and surrounding area also offer picturesque views and peaceful spots for reflection.
Guided tours are available, usually in Chinese. English-speaking guides may be available upon request, but it's advisable to arrange this in advance. There are no audio guides available at this time.
The temple’s main prayer hall and its surroundings offer excellent photography opportunities, especially when the sunlight casts shadows on the temple’s stonework. The courtyard and the views of the surrounding mountains also provide beautiful photo spots.
A recommended route would be to first explore the prayer hall and main temple area, followed by a visit to the smaller shrines around the courtyard. Take time to observe the artwork and statues, and if possible, attend a prayer session or ceremony to experience the temple’s spiritual ambiance.
Night visits are not typically available, and there are no light shows. However, the temple’s atmosphere is particularly serene at dawn or dusk, making it an excellent spot for quiet reflection during those times.
The temple is generally not crowded, but it can become busier during Tibetan religious festivals or major holidays. For a quieter experience, visit on weekdays or during off-peak seasons, such as autumn or winter.
The temple has basic facilities, including public toilets. There are no restaurants or food stalls directly at the temple, so visitors should bring their own food and water. Nearby villages may have small shops and eateries.
The temple’s terrain may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors due to stairs and uneven ground. However, children and younger visitors will enjoy the peaceful environment and cultural experience. It’s best to check accessibility details with local guides beforehand.
Cash is needed for donations or small purchases at the temple. Mobile payments like WeChat Pay or Alipay may be accepted at nearby shops, but it's advisable to carry cash, especially in rural areas.
There are no restaurants or cafes within the temple grounds. However, small eateries can be found in nearby villages, serving traditional Tibetan food like momos, noodles, and tea.
Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available in Tibetan cuisine, especially in local eateries. Halal food may be available depending on the region’s population.
There are a few guesthouses and small hotels in nearby towns. For a more authentic experience, consider staying in a local Tibetan guesthouse to immerse yourself in the culture.
Nearby attractions include the Kumbum Monastery, a significant Tibetan Buddhist site, and the stunning Qinghai Lake, offering both spiritual and scenic experiences that can easily be combined in a day trip.
There are small souvenir shops in the nearby area selling Tibetan crafts, prayer beads, woolen items, and Tibetan incense. The typical souvenirs are religious items and local handicrafts.
After visiting the temple, taxis or rental cars are the best option to continue your trip. For longer distances, buses to larger cities like Xining are available, or you can rent a car for more flexibility.
