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Changlie Monastery is located on Changlie Mountain in Ma'erkang, the capital of Aba Prefecture, Sichuan Province. "Changlie" is a Tibetan word meaning "retreat place." The monastery is situated on a spacious and beautiful landscape, with snow-capped mountains, alpine meadows, and primeval forests.
Since ancient times, this place has been a retreat for generations of eminent monks, and has produced many significant figures in the history of Tibetan Buddhism. Changlie Monastery, founded in the 1240s, belongs to the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism and boasts a history of over 800 years. It is one of the most renowned monasteries of the Nyingma school.
Today, the temple consists of a six-story main building, four monk dormitories, a temple guesthouse, and a visitor reception area. The main building houses the Grand Sutra Hall on the first floor, the Lecture Hall on the second floor, the Sutra Library on the third floor, a multimedia classroom on the fourth floor, the Golden Buddha Hall on the fifth floor, and an exhibition hall on the sixth floor. The roof is crowned by a golden roof.
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Changlie Temple is a historic Tibetan Buddhist site located in the Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. It has great religious significance for the Tibetan people and is an important cultural landmark in the region. The temple has been a center for Buddhist teachings and practices for centuries, offering visitors a spiritual and cultural experience.
Changlie Temple is located in the Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan. It can be accessed by taxi or private vehicle from the nearby town of Aba, which is about a 40-minute drive away. Public transport options are limited, so it's advisable to use a taxi or private car.
The temple is open year-round from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and the natural surroundings are most beautiful. It’s less crowded in the early mornings and weekdays.
The entrance fee is approximately 30 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the temple’s entrance. It is advisable to buy tickets on-site, as there are no online booking services available for this attraction.
Advance booking is not necessary. You can buy tickets directly at the temple entrance. However, visiting during peak seasons like Chinese New Year or summer holidays may require additional time for ticket purchase.
It typically takes around 1 to 2 hours to explore Changlie Temple, including visiting the temple, walking around the grounds, and learning about its history. For those interested in meditation or longer spiritual experiences, more time may be spent here.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin Chinese, and some guides may speak English. Audio guides are not commonly provided, but local guides are knowledgeable and can offer insights into the temple’s history and cultural significance.
The best photography spots are around the temple grounds, especially looking back at the temple from the surrounding hills. The views of the distant mountains and the surrounding Tibetan architecture also make for great photos.
Start by entering the temple and exploring the main prayer hall. Then, walk around the grounds, visiting the cultural exhibits and enjoying the peaceful surroundings. If you have extra time, visit the nearby mountains for a scenic view of the temple and area.
Night visits are not available at Changlie Temple. The temple is primarily a daytime destination for spiritual reflection and exploration. No light shows or special night tours are offered.
The temple can get crowded during holidays and weekends. The least crowded times are early in the morning on weekdays, especially outside of peak tourist seasons like Chinese New Year and the summer holidays.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available at the temple. There are small local shops selling souvenirs and Tibetan Buddhist items. It's recommended to bring your own water and snacks for longer visits, as there are limited food options on-site.
The temple grounds are generally accessible, though the terrain around the temple may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. The main temple is accessible, but some of the surrounding areas may require walking on uneven ground.
Cash is widely accepted, and mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are also supported. Credit cards are less commonly used, so it's recommended to bring cash or use mobile payment services.
There are a few local eateries near the temple offering simple Tibetan and Sichuan cuisine. For more variety, you can find restaurants in the town of Aba, about a 40-minute drive away.
Vegetarian options are available in the local eateries, especially dishes made with Tibetan ingredients. Vegan and halal food options may be limited, so it’s best to inquire at the restaurants for availability.
There are small guesthouses and hotels near the temple, but for more comfortable accommodation, visitors can head to Aba, where a variety of hotels are available, ranging from budget to mid-range options.
Nearby attractions include the Sichuan Tibetan Plateau and the Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture Museum. These can be easily combined for a day trip if you’re staying in the region.
Local souvenir shops sell Tibetan handicrafts, prayer wheels, Tibetan jewelry, and Buddhist statues. You can also find prayer flags and other spiritual items for souvenirs.
The best transportation options are taxis or private cars to continue your trip to other attractions in Aba or further into Sichuan. Public transportation is limited, so it's advisable to hire a private vehicle or take a taxi.
