Charming Tibet, Tibetan Buddhist Monastery - Zizhu Temple

Zizhu Temple is located on Zizhu Mountain in Shagong Township, Dingqing County, Chamdo City, Tibet Autonomous Region, at an altitude of about 4800 meters. It is one of the highest temples in Tibet and one of the oldest and most important temples of the Bon religion. Here is a detailed introduction to Zizhu Temple: - Historical Background: Zizhu Temple was founded in the 10th century BC, advocated by the second generation Tibetan king Muchi Zanpu, and established and passed down by the first generation great master Mubang Sadong. It has a history of more than 3,000 years. During its development, it was temporarily silent due to the suppression of the Bon religion by the 30th generation Tibetan king Trisong Detsen, but was revived in the 14th century by the Bon master Luodan Nianbu. - Architectural Features: Zizhu Temple is a large complex under the six peaks of Zizhu Mountain. The buildings are mostly reinforced concrete frame structures and Tibetan rammed earth walls. Inside, there are ancient Xiangxiong-style patterns, and paintings and murals with Bon religious meanings. The temple houses the main hall, the Mahavira Hall, and four educational institutions: the Inner Knowledge Academy for religious studies, the Debate Academy for scripture studies, the Zhacang Academy for debate studies, and the Meditation Academy for meditation studies, as well as the residence of successive living Buddhas - Larung, and monks' quarters. - Religious Activities: Zizhu Temple is the central holy place for the surrounding Bon believers and also attracts many Bon followers from other places. The temple's most grand Buddhist event is the twelve-yearly divine dance festival, where the rare divine dance drama 'Heaven and Hell' is performed. - Travel Guide: - Opening Hours: Open all year round. - Ticket Price: Free. - Suggested Visit Duration: 2-3 hours. - Transportation Guide: Visitors can first reach Dingqing County, then hire a car or drive to Zizhu Temple. Due to the poor road conditions leading to the mountain, it is recommended to use an off-road vehicle or a four-wheel-drive vehicle. - Notes: Due to the high altitude of Zizhu Temple, visitors need to take precautions against altitude sickness; photography is prohibited inside the temple, and visitors need to follow the temple's rules; due to the remote location of Zizhu Temple, visitors need to prepare food and water in advance.