Tuo Lin Temple, A Sanctuary of Serene Spirituality and Art

Zhadaxian, Tibet Autonomous Region, located on the banks of Xiangquan River

Very ancient temple

3.8

Introduction

Located by the Xiangquan River in Zhada County, northwest of Ali Prefecture, Tibet Autonomous Region, Tölung Monastery is the first Buddhist temple built in the ancient kingdom of Guge. Built in the Northern Song Dynasty, it was founded in 996 AD and designed by King Yixiwo and Master Renqingsangbu in imitation of the Sangye Temple in Qamdo, Tibet. In 1996, Tölung Monastery was listed as a national first-class cultural heritage site. Despite various natural and man-made damage over the years, it still stands tall with its beam structure and towering pagodas. It was the center of Buddhism at the time and a valuable material for studying local architecture, sculpture and painting. Tölung Monastery integrates Indian, Nepalese and local Tibetan architectural styles. The monastery is shielded by a mountain to the south with the Langqin Zangbu River to the north. The halls, pagodas, walls, and monk's quarters are scattered like stars, making a magnificent view from a distance. In 1076, the Fire Dragon Year Great Dharma Assembly was held in Tölung Monastery with the support of Guge King Zande, which lasted for several days and brought together many eminent monks, becoming a grand event in Tibetan Buddhism. Thanks to the residence of the great master Adzom Drukpa and the convening of the Fire Dragon Year Great Dharma Assembly, Tölung Monastery became known throughout Tibet and became a famous monastery in medieval Tibet.

Address

Zhadaxian, Tibet Autonomous Region, located on the banks of Xiangquan River

Opening hours

08:00-19:00 (all day)
last admission at 19:00 (Monday-Sunday, January 1-December 31)

Phone 0891-85588157