Feilai Temple

Introducing Feilai Temple

Feilai Temple is located on the Yunnan-Tibet Highway about 10 kilometers away from Deqin County in Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province. It faces Kawagebo, the main peak of Meili Snow Mountain and is an ideal place to photograph the "Golden Mountain in the Sunlight".

Due to its unique geographical location, it has become a tourist hub along the Yunnan-Tibet Highway, with a variety of inns and restaurants. There is indeed a very small temple here, usually accompanied by only a lama, a cat, and a large rooster.

Laisi Village offers a variety of options, from the more upscale Guanjing Paradise Hotel to the backpacker-friendly Juese Dianxiang Youth Hostel. From Feilaisi, drive along National Highway 214 for about 10 minutes to the Feilaisi Observation Deck on the left side of the road. However, you don't necessarily need to visit the observation deck to capture the "Sun Shining over the Golden Mountain"; other locations along the highway offer opportunities.

Climate and best time to travel

The snow scenery of Meili Snow Mountain is the best in winter and spring from January to May.

Tickets

10.00 yuan for burning incense

Attraction opening hours

The village is open all day and the observation deck is manned 24 hours a day

Temple opening hours: 08:00~17:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Feilai Temple

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

Feilai Temple, located in Zhongdian (Shangri-La) in Yunnan, is an important Tibetan Buddhist temple. It holds cultural and religious significance, representing traditional Tibetan architecture, art, and religious practices. The temple is a spiritual center for locals and attracts visitors interested in Tibetan culture and Buddhism.

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

Feilai Temple is in Zhongdian (Shangri-La), Yunnan. Visitors can reach Zhongdian by flight from major cities like Kunming or Lhasa. From Zhongdian town, taxis or local buses can take you to the temple, or you can walk if staying nearby.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• The temple is generally open from 8:00 to 17:00.
• Best time to visit is from May to October when weather is mild and landscapes are clear.

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

The entrance fee is typically around 50–80 RMB. Tickets are mostly purchased offline at the temple entrance. Online booking may be available via local travel platforms.

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

Advance booking is usually not required. During peak tourist season or festivals, booking a few days in advance is recommended.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

1–2 hours are generally sufficient to explore the temple complex and its surroundings.

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

• Main prayer hall with Buddha statues
• Ancient murals and religious artifacts
• Temple courtyards and pagodas
• Scenic viewpoints around the temple

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

Guided tours are mostly available in Mandarin; English-speaking guides may be arranged through travel agencies. Audio guides are generally not provided.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Temple entrance with surrounding mountains
• Main courtyard and prayer halls
• Adjacent forest paths and river views

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main entrance, explore the central prayer hall, then walk through side courtyards and pagodas, ending with the scenic forest trails nearby.

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

Night visits are not typically available; no light shows are held. Special cultural tours may be arranged through local travel agencies.

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

The temple is moderately visited; weekdays and mornings are less crowded. Avoid major Tibetan festivals for a quieter experience.

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

• Basic toilets near the entrance
• Small shops selling souvenirs and snacks
• Rest areas with benches in courtyards
• Limited food options nearby in Zhongdian town

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

Main temple areas are accessible, but steps and uneven terrain may pose challenges for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can explore safely under supervision.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly used. Alipay and WeChat Pay may be accepted at shops or ticket counters.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Local Tibetan restaurants in Zhongdian town
• Cafes offering tea and light meals near the temple
• Street food stalls with snacks and beverages

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian dishes are available in some Tibetan restaurants. Halal options are limited.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Guesthouses and hotels in Zhongdian town
• Homestays offering local Tibetan hospitality
• Small lodges near scenic areas around the temple

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

• Shangri-La Old Town
• Songzanlin Monastery
• Potatso National Park

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Tibetan handicrafts, prayer flags, and jewelry
• Local arts, carpets, and Thangka paintings
• Herbal teas and traditional Tibetan snacks

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

• Taxis or local buses to Zhongdian town or nearby attractions
• Private car or tour van for multi-destination trips
• Flights from Diqing Shangri-La Airport to Kunming or other major cities