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Dazha Monastery, officially known as "Dazha Temple Auspicious Good Dharma Temple," is located in the northeast of the county seat and is a Gelugpa (Yellow Sect) monastery. Its unique architectural style combines traditional Tibetan and Hanwu architectural styles, resulting in a magnificent and grand scale.
The main buildings include the scripture halls of the three major zacangs, the sleeping palace of the Dazha Living Buddha, the Tibetan medicine clinic of the monastery, the Tsongkhapa Hall, the Protector Hall, the Rhinoceros Armor Protector Hall, the Kalachakra Pagoda, the Bodhi Pagoda, the Zunsheng Pagoda, the Demon-Subduing Pagoda, as well as the Zen courtyard where the monks live and the prayer room.
In addition to the numerous Buddha and Bodhisattva statues, the temple also houses precious classics such as the "Prajna Sutra" copied in gold ink, as well as many precious cultural relics such as the Buddha statue with a history of more than 3,000 years, the bones of the eminent monk "(Tibetan letters)" and the stone tablet with the handprints of the Sixth Living Buddha.
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Daza Temple is a Tibetan Buddhist temple with a long history in the Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. It is an important spiritual site for locals, offering a glimpse into Tibetan religious practices and architecture. The temple is known for its peaceful ambiance and scenic location, surrounded by stunning landscapes.
Daza Temple is located in Aba Prefecture, Sichuan, China. It can be accessed by car or bus from Chengdu, which takes around 7-8 hours. Local taxis and buses are available for transportation once you reach the nearby town. Walking is possible within the temple grounds and surrounding areas.
The temple is open year-round, with the best times to visit being from May to October when the weather is mild. Avoid peak summer months if you prefer a quieter experience. Early mornings are the most peaceful time to visit.
The entrance fee is typically around 20-30 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, and there is no need for online booking.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance for Daza Temple. Tickets can be purchased directly at the entrance, even on the day of the visit.
A visit typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, allowing time to explore the temple, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, and learn about the local culture.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and there may be some English-speaking guides during peak seasons. Audio guides are not commonly provided, but local guides can give detailed insights about the temple's history and culture.
The best photography spots are from the temple grounds overlooking the surrounding mountains and natural scenery. The main hall also offers a great perspective for capturing the temple’s intricate designs and religious artifacts.
Start by visiting the main hall to admire the architecture and sacred items, then take a walk around the temple grounds. If time permits, explore the nearby monastery and surrounding village to learn more about local culture.
Night visits or light shows are not typically available at Daza Temple. The temple is primarily a daytime attraction, with visitors exploring its cultural and spiritual significance during daylight hours.
The temple can get busy during Chinese holidays or weekends. For a more peaceful experience, visit early in the morning or during weekdays, especially in the off-peak seasons (April and November).
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available at the temple. There are no large restaurants, but small food vendors may offer local snacks. There are no shops inside the temple, but souvenirs can be found in the surrounding areas.
The temple is generally accessible, though some areas may require walking on uneven paths. It is not fully wheelchair accessible due to the natural terrain surrounding the temple. Children and elderly visitors may need some assistance during their visit.
Cash is still widely used, and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are becoming more common in the area. However, credit cards are not accepted at the temple, so it’s advisable to carry cash.
Nearby restaurants offer local Tibetan cuisine, such as yak meat dishes and butter tea. For a wider selection, head to the town of Aba, where there are several restaurants and cafes catering to both local and international tastes.
Vegetarian options are available, particularly Tibetan vegetable dishes. Vegan and halal options may be more limited, but they can be found in nearby towns.
There are simple guesthouses near the temple, and for more comfort, you can stay in the nearby town of Aba, where there are hotels ranging from budget to mid-range options.
There are no souvenir shops inside the temple, but the nearby town has stores selling Tibetan crafts, such as handmade jewelry, scarves, and Thangka paintings.
After visiting Daza Temple, taxis and buses are the best options to continue your journey. You can also hire a car to explore nearby attractions like Jiuzhaigou Valley or head back to Chengdu.
