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Located on Mount Zizhu, a famous sacred mountain in Dīngqen County, Qamdo Prefecture, eastern Tibet, Tsezhu Monastery is one of the oldest and most important monasteries of the Yungdrung Bon religion. At an altitude of approximately 4,800 meters, it is also one of the highest monasteries in Tibet.
"Zidu" is a direct translation from Tibetan, meaning the six peaks, and religiously symbolizes the six perfections. After Buddhism became dominant in most parts of Tibet, Bonism survived in the area centered around Zidu Monastery, which made Zidu Monastery enjoy a very high reputation among Bon temples.
The best time to worship at Zizhu Temple is from late June to mid-August. At the end of June every year, Zizhu Temple holds an annual Dharma assembly and religious dance.
Starting from the Year of the Rooster in the Tibetan calendar (the same as the Chinese calendar), every 13 years, Zizhu Monastery holds a large-scale Bon religious dance called "Heaven and Hell" which emphasizes cause and effect, teaches people to do good deeds, and advocates peace.
Recommended play time: half a day
30 yuan/person
8:00-19:00
Zizhu Temple in Chamdo, Tibet, is an important Tibetan Buddhist monastery with centuries-old history. It serves as a spiritual center for the local community, housing monks and religious artifacts, and plays a key role in preserving Tibetan culture and Buddhist traditions.
The temple is located in Chamdo, Tibet. Visitors typically reach it via private car, taxi, or organized tour from Chamdo city. Walking is possible within the temple complex.
Entrance is generally free or requires a small local donation. Tickets, if needed, are purchased offline at the temple.
Advance booking is not required for casual visits. Guided tours should be arranged 1–2 weeks in advance.
1–2 hours are sufficient to explore the main temple halls, courtyards, and surrounding gardens.
Guided tours are usually available in Tibetan and Chinese. English-speaking guides should be arranged in advance through local tour agencies.
Night visits are not common. Special cultural or prayer ceremonies may be arranged through local guides.
The temple is usually calm, especially on weekdays and outside major Tibetan festivals.
Basic facilities include rest areas, small teahouses, and local souvenir stalls. Toilets may be limited.
Moderately accessible. Courtyards and main halls are reachable, but uneven terrain and steps may challenge elderly or disabled visitors.
Cash is recommended for donations, purchases, or small fees. Cards and mobile payments may not be widely accepted.
Local Tibetan teahouses and small eateries nearby serve traditional food such as tsampa, yak meat dishes, and butter tea.
Vegetarian options are limited. Halal or vegan food should be confirmed in advance with local eateries.
Chamdo city offers guesthouses, small hotels, and homestays close to Zizhu Temple, providing basic amenities for overnight stays.
Souvenir stalls sell Tibetan handicrafts, prayer flags, traditional jewelry, and small religious artifacts.
