Bangpu Temple

Introducing Bangpu Temple

Bengpu Temple is the oldest temple in Daocheng, with a history of 900 years. Located 30 kilometers from Daocheng and at an altitude of 3,940 meters, Bengpu Temple is a temple of the White Sect of Tibetan Buddhism, known as the Kagyu Sect in Tibetan.

The spread of the White Sect mainly relies on "oral transmission", where the master teaches the disciples orally, and the disciples practice according to the master's teachings. It does not rely too much on scriptures and books, so it is also called "Tantric Buddhism".

The founder of Bengpu Monastery was named Karmapa Dusong Khyenpa. At the end of the Southern Song Dynasty, Karmapa Dusong Khyenpa and his two brothers traveled to the Sangdui River Valley. Seeing the majestic mountains, vast grasslands and crisscrossing rivers, they thought it was a Feng Shui treasure land. They decided to build a temple here and promote Buddhism.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-3 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

7:00-18:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Bangpu Temple

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

Bangpu Temple is a significant Tibetan Buddhist temple in the Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Sichuan. It has long been a place of spiritual worship and reflection for Tibetan Buddhists. The temple is known for its unique blend of Tibetan architectural styles and its role in preserving and promoting Tibetan culture and religious practices.

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

Bangpu Temple is located in the Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, which is a remote region in Sichuan Province. To get there, it’s best to take a taxi or private car from the nearest major town, Kangding. The temple is not directly accessible by public transport, so hiring a car is the most convenient option.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Bangpu Temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring or autumn months, when the weather is mild. Avoid visiting during peak tourist seasons, such as major Chinese holidays, when it can get crowded.

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

The entrance fee to the temple is around ¥20. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the temple entrance. There is no online ticketing system for this attraction.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not required for Bangpu Temple, as it is a relatively low-profile tourist attraction. However, if you are planning to visit during a busy time, it’s advisable to check with local tour operators to confirm availability.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You will need about 1-2 hours to fully explore the temple, especially if you take time to visit the prayer halls, observe the rituals, and walk around the scenic grounds. If you wish to meditate or take photos, you may want to allocate additional time.

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

• The main prayer hall, where daily rituals and ceremonies take place.
• The surrounding gardens and views of the nearby mountains, providing a tranquil and picturesque setting.
• The Tibetan Buddhist artifacts and paintings on display, which offer insight into the spiritual practices of the region.

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese, and you may be able to arrange an English-speaking guide in advance through local tour agencies. Audio guides are not available, but there are informational signs in the temple.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints for photography are from the temple grounds, which offer sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The main prayer hall and its surrounding courtyards also provide excellent backdrops for photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the main prayer hall to learn about the religious practices. Then, take a stroll through the temple grounds, stopping to observe the surrounding landscapes. Finish your visit by exploring the Tibetan artifacts and learning about the temple’s history.

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

There are no night visits, light shows, or special tours offered at Bangpu Temple. The temple is best visited during daylight hours when you can fully appreciate the surroundings and the spiritual atmosphere.

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

Bangpu Temple is not generally crowded, especially outside of peak tourist seasons. Weekdays are the least crowded, and early mornings are the best time to visit if you prefer a more peaceful experience.

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

• There are basic toilet facilities available on-site.
• There are no restaurants or cafes inside the temple, but you can find food and water in nearby towns.
• Rest areas are available, and the temple grounds offer a peaceful space to sit and relax.
• There are no souvenir shops at the temple itself, but you can find local handicrafts in nearby villages.

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

The temple is located on elevated ground, so some areas may be challenging for elderly visitors or those with mobility impairments. The main prayer hall is accessible, but visitors should be prepared for some walking on uneven terrain.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is preferred for ticket purchases and donations. Mobile payments are not widely accepted at the temple, so it’s recommended to bring cash in local currency.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no restaurants or cafes at the temple. However, local eateries in nearby towns offer traditional Tibetan food such as tsampa (roasted barley), yak meat dishes, and butter tea.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available in some of the local Tibetan restaurants. Vegan and halal options may be more limited, but they can be found in larger towns like Kangding.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are several guesthouses and hotels in nearby towns like Kangding, which is about a 2-3 hour drive from the temple.
• For a more authentic experience, consider staying in a Tibetan-style guesthouse in the region.

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

• Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture offers many scenic spots, including the Daocheng Yading Nature Reserve, known for its breathtaking landscapes.
• The Tagong Grassland, famous for its beautiful plains and Tibetan culture, is also nearby.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

While the temple itself doesn’t have souvenir shops, local markets and shops in nearby towns offer Tibetan handicrafts such as prayer beads, thangkas (Tibetan paintings), and yak wool products.

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

After visiting the temple, you can take a taxi or private car to explore nearby attractions. Public buses are available in the nearby towns, and the Ganzi region is well-connected by road to other parts of Sichuan.