Must-See Attractions on Your Tibet Trip | Zi Zhu Temple | Temple in the Sky

Zi Zhu Temple is located in Dingqing County, Changdu City, Tibet Autonomous Region, China. It is a Bon temple with a long history. Bon is an ancient religion native to Tibet, predating the introduction of Tibetan Buddhism. Zi Zhu Temple sits on Zi Zhu Mountain at an altitude of approximately 4,800 meters. With its precipitous terrain and magnificent scenery, it is known as the "Temple in the Sky." History and Culture The history of Zi Zhu Temple can be traced back approximately 3,000 years. Legend has it that it was founded by a disciple of Tonpa Shenrab Miwoche, the founder of Bon. The temple holds a significant position in Bon, serving as the religious center of Zi Zhu Mountain, one of the four sacred mountains of Bon. Zi Zhu Temple is not only an essential place of practice for Bon but also a center for the transmission of Bon culture. Architecture and Landscape Zi Zhu Temple boasts a unique architectural style, blending traditional Bon elements. Built on the mountainside, the temple complex mainly consists of the main hall, scripture hall, and monks' quarters. Due to its high-altitude location, the temple is often shrouded in clouds and mist, resembling a celestial realm. This ethereal atmosphere attracts numerous pilgrims and tourists for worship and sightseeing. Religious Activities Zi Zhu Temple hosts important religious activities every year, especially traditional Bon festivals and Buddhist assemblies. The most famous of these is the "Zi Zhu Sacred Dance Assembly," held every 12 years, attracting believers and tourists from all over Tibet. During the assembly, monks perform ancient sacred dances, symbolizing the warding off of evil spirits and praying for blessings. Tourism and Pilgrimage Zi Zhu Temple is not only a pilgrimage site for Bon believers but has also gradually become a popular destination for travel enthusiasts. Due to its unique geographical location and profound cultural heritage, Zi Zhu Temple is known as "one of the most mysterious temples in Tibet." The journey to Zi Zhu Temple is relatively arduous, but the natural scenery and religious atmosphere along the way are unforgettable.