🙏 Visiting Gemo Temple: Giant Maitreya & Monastic Life in Ngawa (Aba)

Just 15 km from downtown Ngawa (Aba), Gemo Temple is a hidden gem of Tibetan Buddhism. Set against a backdrop of serene mountains, this impressive monastery houses one of the largest Maitreya (Future Buddha) statues in China.

🚕 How to get there: A private taxi from the city costs around 40 CNY. For the return, you can either catch a shared taxi (5 CNY per person) or simply ask a passing car—locals are often happy to help.

🛕 The walk to the temple is peaceful and scenic. From the gate, a path lined with monks’ houses leads to the towering main hall. You’ll likely see monks strolling or chanting softly as you approach.

🕛 Daily ceremonies: Around 12:00 pm, the monks gather for a ceremony that visitors are welcome to attend. After their lunch at 1:00 pm, the ritual continues. It’s a rare opportunity to witness authentic spiritual life in action.

🌟 The main highlight is the massive statue of Maitreya, visible from multiple levels inside the main building.

We recommend this route:
• 2nd floor (entrance): You’ll see the base of the statue and a hall filled with over 700 small Buddha statues.
• 7th floor: Home to the monastery’s sacred treasures, including ancient scriptures and ornate offerings.
• 5th floor (save for last!): Here you’ll stand face-to-face with Maitreya’s majestic expression—an awe-inspiring moment not to be missed.

🧘♂️ As you exit, look for two rare statues of esoteric Buddhism flanking the path—each one richly detailed and symbolically powerful.

🎟️ Free entry

🕘 Opening hours (main hall): 9:00–12:00 & 14:00–18:00

🍽️ After the visit, head back to Ngawa and enjoy a warm, traditional meal at Amdo Nomadic food, a local small restaurant with a big essence.

🏨 Where to stay in Ngawa: We recommend the Shanzhi Ruyi Hotel for its comfort, cleanliness, and convenient location.

📚 For more about the region, don’t miss our article: "Ngawa (Aba): Sacred Monasteries, Mountain Views & Hidden Tibetan Culture"