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Visit Puhua Temple to explore its serene Buddhist atmosphere, walk along the riverbanks of the Nujiang River for scenic views, and take part in local cultural experiences or Buddhist rituals. Photography of the river and temple is highly recommended, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Nujiang Puhua Temple, also known as the Lama Temple, is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery located in Bingzhongluo Township, Gongshan County, Nujiang Prefecture, Yunnan Province, and holds significant local significance. Within the temple, a clay Buddha statue stands between two tigers and a lion. Eleven murals adorn the corridors and interior walls, along with 2,000 smaller "Songji" paintings. The entire temple is built in Tibetan style, simple yet quaint. While the temple is usually closed, the main events at Puhua Temple, the "Gedou Festival" from the 25th to the 29th day of the twelfth lunar month and the "Youjing Festival" on the 15th day of the sixth lunar month, are bustling with activity.
It has a temperate monsoon climate;
Visit in all seasons
free
All day
Puhua Temple is a historically significant Buddhist site located along the Nujiang River in Yunnan. It has served as a center for spiritual practice and local religious gatherings for centuries, reflecting the deep Buddhist traditions in the region.
Puhua Temple is located in the Nujiang River Valley in Yunnan. It is accessible by bus or taxi from nearby towns such as Lijiang or the city of Baoshan. You can also travel by private car for a more direct route. Walking is recommended if you enjoy nature and want to experience the area’s tranquility.
The temple is open daily, from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when the light enhances the peaceful environment and offers great photography opportunities.
The entrance fee is generally free, but donations are encouraged. If visiting during a special event, such as a Buddhist ceremony, there may be a nominal fee. Tickets are not required, and donations can be made at the temple.
No advance booking is necessary to visit the temple. However, for large group visits or special events, it’s advisable to contact the temple in advance.
A visit to Puhua Temple typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on whether you explore the temple’s surroundings or take part in any local activities.
The main highlight of the temple is the grand hall, where local monks perform rituals. The temple's serene garden and views of the Nujiang River are also beautiful spots to enjoy. The temple’s architecture, reflecting traditional Tibetan Buddhist styles, is another highlight.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some local guides may offer tours in English, although it’s not guaranteed. It’s best to arrange for a guide if you don’t speak Chinese.
One of the best photography spots is from the temple’s hillside offering panoramic views of the Nujiang River. Another great spot is near the riverbank where you can capture both the natural beauty of the river and the peaceful temple.
Start by visiting the main hall of the temple, then take a walk around the temple grounds to explore the gardens. Afterward, stroll down to the riverbank for a scenic view of the valley and temple. It’s also nice to visit the nearby areas to experience local life and culture.
There are no night visits or light shows at Puhua Temple. However, the temple’s peaceful atmosphere can be appreciated during the evening hours when it is less crowded.
The temple is generally not crowded, except during local religious festivals or holidays. Weekdays, especially in the early morning, are the least crowded times to visit.
Basic facilities such as toilets are available near the temple. There are no food vendors or shops inside the temple, but you can find small restaurants and tea houses nearby.
The temple is accessible for most visitors, but some areas may have uneven paths that could be difficult for those with mobility challenges. It is best to check in advance if you need specific accommodations.
Cash is preferred for donations, though mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly accepted in the area. Credit cards may not be accepted at the temple itself.
There are small local eateries serving Yunnanese and Tibetan food. For a wider variety, you may want to head to Baoshan or Lijiang, where there are more dining options.
Vegetarian food is available, particularly in the form of local Tibetan and Yunnanese dishes. Vegan options can also be found at local restaurants. Halal options may be more limited in the area.
There are a few guesthouses and small hotels near the temple, but for more luxurious accommodations, you’ll need to travel to nearby towns such as Lijiang or Baoshan.
Nearby attractions include the Nujiang River, which offers stunning views, and the town of Baoshan, which has beautiful ancient architecture. A trip to Lijiang, with its famous old town, can also be easily combined.
Local souvenir shops sell traditional Yunnan handicrafts such as handwoven textiles, wooden carvings, and Tibetan jewelry. These can be found in the surrounding areas of the temple.
The best transportation options are private taxis or buses that can take you to Baoshan or Lijiang. Both towns are within a few hours’ drive and offer many travel connections to other parts of Yunnan.
