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The Putuo Zongcheng Temple, located north of the Summer Palace in Chengde City, Hebei Province, and south of Shizigou, covers an area of 220,000 square meters. It is the largest of Chengde's Eight Outer Temples. Built in the 36th year of Emperor Qianlong's reign during the Qing Dynasty, it was commissioned by Emperor Qianlong to celebrate his 60th birthday and his mother, the Empress Dowager, her 80th birthday. The temple was modeled after the Potala Palace in Tibet. The entire complex is situated atop a mountain, with over 60 (over 40 remaining) flat-roofed white terraces, including those of Buddhist pagodas, arranged vertically and horizontally, following the slope of the mountain, with no distinct axis.
"Putuo Zongcheng" is a literal translation of the Tibetan word "Potala." Built in the style of the Potala Palace in Lhasa, it's often referred to as the "Little Potala Palace." If you haven't been to Tibet yet, consider visiting here first. Rather than calling it a temple, it resembles a castle. The structure rises gradually, cascading down the mountainside, creating a majestic and imposing scene.
The temperate monsoon climate makes autumn the best time to travel.
1-3 hours
60 yuan/person
April 1st - October 31st 8:00-17:30;
November 1st - March 31st of the following year 8:30-17:00
Putuo Zongcheng Temple, built in 1771 during the Qing dynasty, was modeled after Lhasa's Potala Palace. It was constructed to celebrate the emperor’s birthday and strengthen ties with Tibetan Buddhism. The temple complex reflects Qing imperial architecture and religious significance.
The temple is located in Chengde, Hebei Province. Visitors can take a bus or taxi from Chengde city center. Walking is possible within the temple grounds.
Open daily, typically from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Spring and autumn are ideal for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Tickets cost around 100–120 CNY, depending on the season. They can be purchased online or at the ticket office on-site.
Advance booking is recommended during peak tourist seasons and national holidays, ideally a few days ahead.
2–3 hours to walk through the main halls, courtyards, and gardens.
Guided tours are available in Chinese and sometimes in English. Audio guides may be offered in Chinese, with limited English versions.
Enter through the main gate, visit the outer courtyards first, then proceed to the Golden Pavilion and main prayer halls, ending with the terraces and gardens for panoramic views.
Night visits are generally not available. Some special cultural events may be hosted occasionally during festivals.
Weekdays and early mornings are less crowded. National holidays and weekends see larger crowds.
Public restrooms, small snack kiosks, and souvenir shops are available inside and near the temple complex.
Some areas have stairs and uneven paths, making full accessibility challenging. Elderly and children can manage with caution; wheelchair access is limited.
Cash is accepted, while mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used. Major cards may be accepted at larger facilities.
Small eateries and cafes are near the temple entrance and around the Chengde area, offering local cuisine and snacks.
Vegetarian options are available in some nearby restaurants. Vegan and halal options are limited.
Hotels range from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels in Chengde city center, a short taxi ride from the temple.
Yes, selling Buddhist-themed items, miniature temples, local crafts, and traditional Chinese artwork.
Taxis, buses, or private car services are the easiest ways to reach other temples, Chengde city center, or nearby attractions.
