24 Hours Hotline: +8613735411378
Email:[email protected]
24 Hours Hotline: +8613735411378
Email:[email protected]
Introdution
Known as a "mini-Potala Palace," in Shangri-La County, southwest China's Yunnan Province. Built in 1679 in the Qing Dynasty and covering an area of 330,000 sq m, the Songzanlin Lamasery is the largest of its kind for Tibetan Buddhism in Yunnan. It is one of Yunnan's most famous destinations for pilgrims and a popular tourist attraction.
History & Background
Built in 1679, the monastery is the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan province and is sometimes referred to as the Little Potala Palace. Located in the capital of Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, it is also the most important monastery in southwest China.
It belongs to the Yellow Hat sect of Tibetan Buddhism of the Gelukpa order of the Dalai Lama. The Fifth Dalai Lama's Buddhist visionary zeal established the monastery in Zhongdian, in 1679. Its architecture is a fusion of the Tibetan and Han Chinese. It was extensively damaged in the Cultural Revolution and subsequently rebuilt in 1983; at its peak, the monastery contained accommodation for 2,000 monks; it currently accommodates in its rebuilt structures 700 monks in 200 associated houses.
Because of the popularity of James Hilton's novel Lost Horizon (1933), which introduced Shangri-La and is said have been written on an inspirational theme of "the Tibetan Buddhist Scriptures, where human beings, animals, and nature lived in harmony under the rule of a Tibetan", the Chinese authorities changed the name of Zhongdian County to Shangri-La County in 2001, as the city claims to be the source of inspiration for Hilton's novel. The earlier names were – the Zhongdian to the Chinese, and Gyalthang to the Tibetans, of the town which has predominantly Tibetan population. The name of the county's capital town was similarly changed from Jiantang to Shangri-la. The ambiance of the town is distinctly Tibetan with prayer flags fluttering, mountains known by holy names, lamaseries and rocks inscribed in Tibetan language with Buddhist sutras.
Structures
The Monastery built in the 17th century as the largest Buddhist monastery in Yunnan province, after a revelation by the Fifth Dalai Lama is in accordance with Tibetan traditional architectural style. It has six main structures including eight colleges. The entrance gate is at the foot of the hill and provides access to the main hall of the monastery through 146 steps.
In the main hall of the monastery, more than 1500 monks congregate to recite the Buddhist scriptures. This hall houses a plethora of scriptures written on palm leaves, a gilded statue of Shakyamuni Buddha which is 8 metres (26 ft) tall at the main altar along with paintings depicting the life of Buddha. The altar has permanent decorated by yak butter lamps.
The monastery has two major lamasery buildings – Zhacang and Jikang – apart from several smaller lamaseries. Numerous living rooms have also been built for the monks to reside. The main monastery structure built in Tibetan style has a gilded copper roof similar to the one at the Potala Monastery in Lhasa. The other buildings in the complex are built in Han Chinese style.
The road from the old town of the city, leads to the scripture chamber, which was earlier a Red Army Memorial hall to commemorate the Red Army's long march in the 1930s. At the opposite end of this hall, across the street is the Gulshan Park, which has a monastery with a commanding view of the town and its surroundings.
Travel Information
Entrance Fee: CNY 115
Openning Hours: 7:30-18:30
Recommended Time for Visiting: 3 hours
Best Time to Visit: Mar.-May.; Sept.-Nov.
How to get to there: Take city bus from Shangri-la and you can reach to the monastery.
Duration：6-8 Hours
Attractions(Cities)： Chengdu Panda Research Base, People's Park, Jinli Ancient Street, Kuanzhai Alley
Tour Style：Immerse yourself in the charm of Chengdu with our Chengdu City Tour. Start at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, where you'll get a close look at the adorable giant pandas in their natural habitat and learn about vital conservation efforts. Next, head to People's Park, where you can enjoy a traditional tea experience, soaking in the tranquil local atmosphere. Afterward, take a stroll through Jinli Ancient Street, renowned for its traditional architecture and vibrant market. Finish the tour at the unique blend of history and modernity in Kuanzhai Alley. With round-trip transportation from your Chengdu hotel, this tour offers a seamless and memorable experience, perfect for panda lovers and culture enthusiasts alike!
Duration：6-8 Hours
Attractions(Cities)：Chengdu Giant Panda Research Base, Leshan Giant Buddha
Tour Style：This day tour takes you to two of Chengdu’s most iconic attractions: the Chengdu Giant Panda Research Base and the Leshan Giant Buddha. In the morning, you’ll visit the panda base, where you can see the adorable pandas up close in their natural environment. Your guide will provide fascinating details about their behavior, diet, and conservation efforts, helping you gain a deeper understanding of these beloved creatures. In the afternoon, you’ll head to Leshan to marvel at the Leshan Giant Buddha, the largest stone-carved Buddha in the world. Your guide will share the rich history and cultural significance behind this ancient monument, making your visit even more enriching. This tour combines Chengdu’s natural wonders with its deep cultural heritage, ensuring a memorable and insightful experience.
Duration：2 Days 1 Night
Attractions(Cities)：Chengdu Panda Base, Renmin Park, Wuhou Temple, Jinli Street, Wenshu Monastery, Chengdu Museum, Tianfu Square
Tour Style：This 2 days Chengdu tour offers a perfect blend of the city’s ancient heritage and modern charm. On Day 1, you’ll visit the Chengdu Panda Base to meet the adorable pandas, followed by a stroll through Renmin Park to experience the local lifestyle. In the afternoon, you’ll explore Wuhou Temple, a historic site steeped in the Three Kingdoms era, and wander through Jinli Ancient Street, a lively area filled with traditional crafts and local snacks. On Day 2, you’ll visit Wenshu Monastery, where full of peaceful Buddhist culture, followed by the Chengdu Museum to discover the city’s rich history. The tour ends at Tianfu Square, where you can feel the vibrant pulse of modern Chengdu. This itinerary, guided by a knowledgeable local, seamlessly combines the city's ancient and contemporary attractions.
Duration：8-9 Hours
Attractions(Cities)：Dujiangyan, Qingcheng Mountain
Tour Style：This day tour takes you to two of Sichuan's most fascinating sites: Dujiangyan and Qingcheng Mountain, where nature and culture come together seamlessly. First, you’ll explore the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases ancient Chinese engineering brilliance. Your guide will explain its history, importance, and how it has shaped water management in the region for over two thousand years. Next, you’ll visit Qingcheng Mountain, a peaceful and spiritual place known as the birthplace of Taoism. Here, you’ll wander through ancient temples and Taoist shrines, surrounded by lush greenery and serene landscapes. This tour offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in both natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Duration：3 Days 2 Nights
Attractions(Cities)：Leshan Giant Buddha, Mount Emei, Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Renmin Park, Jinli Ancient Street, Kuanzhai Alley
Tour Style：This 3-day Chengdu tour offers the perfect blend of cultural exploration and natural beauty. On Day 1, visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to see China’s iconic pandas up close, then continue to Renmin Park, Jinli Ancient Street, and Kuanzhai Alley, where you’ll experience the city’s lively atmosphere and rich heritage. Day 2 takes you to Leshan, where you’ll marvel at the UNESCO-listed Leshan Giant Buddha, followed by a scenic drive to Mount Emei. On Day 3, explore the sacred beauty of Mount Emei, including the Golden Summit and the stunning Huazang Temple. Throughout the journey, your expert guide will offer fascinating insights, ensuring a smooth, engaging, and unforgettable experience every step of the way.
Wechat: Chinaprivatetour
24 Hours Hotline:
+8613735411378
Certificate of Excellence
2012~2025
Your Way Holiday
(Your Privacy is Protected)
1 to 1 tailor-made service from our professional travel advisors for the most sophisticated
Constantly excellent reviews for attraction, hotel and service Competitive price
Local experts provide quality tours Best selected knowledgeable local guides Authentic local restaurants
7*24 hours available to create you a worry-free tour. No Hidden Fees and absolutely no pressure to buy. Secured
