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At Zharu Temple, you can explore the Tibetan Buddhist culture, enjoy the serene environment, and visit the prayer halls. Participate in meditation and witness the local Tibetan rituals. The temple offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is a great spot for photography and reflection.
Located in Zharu Valley in Jiuzhaigou, Zharu Temple is nestled against the backdrop of the Cangshan Mountains and faces the Baojing Cliff. Its golden roof and red eaves are nestled among orchards, with colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind, offering a solemn atmosphere of Zen and the legacy of primitive indigenous religions.
The main hall is divided into three levels: the first is where public religious activities are held, lamas chant, and believers worship; the second is where Tantric Buddhism is practiced; and the third contains a large collection of Buddhist scriptures, statues, and thangkas. A statue of Sakyamuni Buddha is enshrined within the hall, and the shrine is topped with various Buddhist instruments and other items, and the floor is covered with wool carpets.
It is said that "Mazi" is a deity in the Bonpo religion (a primitive religion prevalent in Tibet before Buddhism was introduced), responsible for exorcising demons and monsters. The Mazi Festival is held in his honor. The Mazi Festival is the most important religious ceremony at Zharu Temple and the most solemn festival in Jiuzhaigou.
There are four grand temple fairs in Zharu Temple every year, the largest of which is the Mazi Fair on the 15th day of the fifth lunar month.
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
Tickets are included in the Jiuzhaigou scenic area ticket
8:00-17:00
Zharu Temple is a significant Tibetan Buddhist monastery known for its role in the spread of Tibetan Buddhism in the region. It has a long history dating back several centuries and is home to a community of monks who practice traditional Tibetan rituals and teachings.
Zharu Temple is located in the Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture of Sichuan Province. The best way to reach the temple is by private car or taxi from Chengdu or Aba County. It is also accessible via long-distance buses to Aba, followed by a local taxi to the temple.
The temple is generally open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and pleasant. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal to avoid crowds, especially if you're interested in photography.
The entrance fee for Zharu Temple is typically ¥30. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the temple's entrance. It's advisable to check for any group discounts or changes in the ticket price during local festivals or holidays.
Booking tickets in advance is generally not required. However, during peak seasons such as Tibetan New Year or major religious festivals, it’s a good idea to book at least 1-2 days in advance if possible to avoid any inconvenience.
It takes about 1 to 2 hours to explore the temple and its surroundings. If you are interested in participating in religious ceremonies or meditation, you may want to spend additional time.
Inside the temple, the main highlights include the main prayer hall, the Tibetan prayer wheels, and the monastic living quarters. Visitors can also enjoy the stunning mountain views and explore the local Tibetan culture in the vicinity.
Guided tours are available at Zharu Temple, and some guides may speak Mandarin and Tibetan. English-speaking guides may also be available, but it’s best to confirm in advance, especially during the busy seasons.
The best photography spots are around the temple entrance, where you can capture the Tibetan architecture against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains. There are also scenic viewpoints near the prayer flags and stupas around the temple that offer great shots of the surrounding valleys.
Start at the entrance gate and make your way through the main prayer hall. Spend some time exploring the monastic quarters and the Tibetan prayer wheels. If time allows, take a walk around the temple to enjoy the views of the surrounding nature and mountains.
Night visits are not available at Zharu Temple, as it operates mainly during the day. There are no light shows, but the temple may hold special religious ceremonies during Tibetan festivals, which can be an enriching experience for visitors.
The temple can get busy during Tibetan festivals and holidays. To avoid crowds, visit during the weekdays and outside of major holidays. Early mornings and late afternoons are the quietest times to visit.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available near the temple entrance. There are local vendors selling snacks and water, but for more substantial meals, it’s best to head to nearby towns or Aba city.
Zharu Temple may not be fully accessible for visitors with mobility impairments due to the uneven terrain and stairs. However, it is generally suitable for children and the elderly with some assistance. It’s advisable to check for any specific accessibility needs in advance.
Cash is the preferred method of payment at Zharu Temple for tickets and souvenirs. Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay may be accepted, but it’s advisable to bring some cash for small purchases.
There are no large restaurants or cafes inside the temple grounds. However, you can find small Tibetan eateries serving traditional food in nearby towns. For more dining options, head to Aba city, which has a wider variety of restaurants.
Vegetarian options such as vegetable stews and Tibetan bread are available. However, for vegan or halal options, you may need to explore Aba city where a wider variety of dietary options can be found.
There are several guesthouses and small hotels near the temple. For more comfortable and luxurious accommodations, head to Aba city, where you can find mid-range to high-end hotels.
Nearby attractions include Sichuan's Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture with its rich Tibetan culture, Tibetan monasteries, and scenic valleys. A day trip from Zharu Temple could include visits to Mount Siguniang, Hongyuan Grasslands, or Danba's Tibetan villages.
There are small souvenir shops at the temple selling Tibetan prayer beads, incense, Tibetan artwork, and handmade crafts. You can also find traditional Tibetan textiles like scarves and clothing.
After visiting Zharu Temple, you can continue your trip by private car or taxi to nearby Tibetan villages, mountain areas, or Aba city. Long-distance buses are available for travel to Chengdu or other major cities.
