Gongdelin Temple

Introducing Gongdelin Temple

Gongdelin Monastery is a Gelugpa monastery of Tibetan Buddhism and one of the four great monasteries in Lhasa. Its name, meaning "Weizang Yong'an" in Tibetan and "Temple of Peace" in Chinese, was given to the monastery during the Jiaqing reign of the Qing Dynasty. It is located at the foot of Pamarji Mountain, southwest of the Potala Palace.

Gongdelin Monastery, the four-story residence of the Dacha Living Buddha in Lhasa, houses a gilded bronze statue of Tsongkhapa and a life-size statue of Thubten Gonpo. It also houses a collection of award plaques and treasures bestowed by successive Qing emperors. The monastery's abbots, Lobsang Tenpai Zangpo and Ngawang Bandan Gendun Gyatso, once served as regents of Tibet. The monastery is now renowned for its divination and fortune-telling services.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-2 hours

Tickets

free

---

Most Popular FAQs for Gongdelin Temple

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

Gongdelin Temple, founded in 1409 during the Ming Dynasty, is a prominent Gelugpa monastery in Lhasa. It is renowned for its architectural style, cultural relics, and as a center of Buddhist learning and practice in Tibet.

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

Located in northern Lhasa, it can be reached by taxi or local bus from the city center. Walking is suitable once inside the temple complex.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Open daily from around 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. The best times to visit are from May to October for favorable weather and clearer views.

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

Entrance is generally free or requires a small donation. Tickets are usually purchased on-site; online options are limited.

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

Booking is not required for the temple itself, but arranging transportation or a guided tour 1–2 days ahead is recommended.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Approximately 1.5–2 hours to explore the temple, courtyards, and surrounding grounds.

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

• Main prayer halls with statues and murals
• Stupas and ceremonial structures
• Monk living quarters and meditation areas
• Courtyards with traditional Tibetan architecture

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

Guided tours are available through local travel agencies, mainly in Tibetan, Chinese, and occasionally English. Audio guides are not commonly offered.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Temple courtyards for architecture shots
• Terraces with views of Lhasa city and surrounding mountains
• Close-ups of prayer wheels, flags, and statues

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Enter through the main gate and visit the central prayer hall
• Walk through side halls and explore murals and statues
• Visit courtyards and smaller chapels
• End at elevated viewpoints for panoramic photography

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

Night visits and light shows are not available. Special tours can be arranged through travel agencies during the day.

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

The temple is moderately visited. Weekdays and non-festival periods are less crowded. Tibetan New Year and major religious festivals attract more visitors.

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

Basic amenities include restrooms and small local shops selling snacks and drinks. No extensive dining facilities are on-site.

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

The temple has some steps and uneven ground. Elderly and disabled visitors may require assistance, while children should be supervised.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is recommended for donations, small purchases, and transportation, as cards and mobile payments may not be widely accepted.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Small local eateries near the temple entrance serve Tibetan food, including noodles, tsampa, and butter tea.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian Tibetan dishes are available. Halal options are limited; visitors may need to eat in Lhasa before or after visiting.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Accommodation is primarily in Lhasa city. Options include guesthouses, mid-range hotels, and boutique Tibetan-style inns.

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

Nearby attractions include Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street, and the Potala Palace in Lhasa.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenirs include prayer flags, Tibetan handicrafts, religious artifacts, and traditional textiles.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Return to Lhasa city center by taxi, private car, or arranged tour vehicle to continue visiting nearby landmarks.