Laiyuan Temple in Weixi County, Diqing
Overview of Laiyuan Temple
Laiyuan Temple (来远寺, Lái yuǎn sì) is a significant temple belonging to the Zhigong Gajue sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Originally known as Tudan Ruo Jie Lin Temple, it has a rich historical legacy, being a center of teachings for three prominent Rinpoches (仁波切, rén bó qiē). At its height, the temple supported over 300 monks and is located in the heart of the “Three Parallel Rivers” UNESCO World Heritage area. Situated in Qizong Village (其宗村, Qízōng cūn) of Tacheng Town (塔城乡, Tǎchéng xiāng) in Weixi County (维西县, Wéixī xiàn), the area is renowned for its picturesque landscapes of mountains and clear waters, with charming cottages nestled among lush fruit trees.
Laiyuan Temple is positioned about 6 kilometers from the village, on the scenic Ahailuo Mountain (阿海洛山, Āhǎilòu shān). The mountain is characterized by its rich greenery and features a prominent cliff that houses the Damo Patriarch Cave (达摩祖师洞, Dámó zǔshī dòng). The temple and Damo Temple (达摩寺, Dámó sì) are strategically located around the Damo Patriarch Cave, creating a harmonious triad of sacred sites.
Temple Features
Laiyuan Temple is located in Weixi County, in the northwestern region of Yunnan Province (云南省, Yúnnán shěng) and the southwestern part of Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture (迪庆藏族自治州, Dìqǐng zàngzú zìzhìzhōu). It faces Shangri-La County (香格里拉县, Xiānggélǐlā xiàn) across the river and shares borders with Yulong County (玉龙县, Yùlóng xiàn) in Lijiang (丽江, Lìjiāng) to the southeast.
Key attractions in the Weixi tourism area include:
- Xiangguqing Primitive Forest (响古箐原始森林, Xiǎnggǔqìng yuánshǐ sēnlín)
- Damo Patriarch Cave (达摩祖师洞, Dámó zǔshī dòng)
- Yalaogou Primitive Forest (牙老沟原始森林, Yálǎogōu yuánshǐ sēnlín)
- Qibie Ginkgo King (启别银杏王, Qǐbié yínxìng wáng)
- Laiyuan Temple (来远寺, Lái yuǎn sì)
Religious Heritage
Laiyuan Temple is located in Tacheng Town, a multicultural region where Tibetan (藏族, zàngzú), Lisu (傈僳族, lìsuǒ zú), Naxi (纳西族, nàxī zú), Yi (彝族, yí zú), Pumi (普米族, pǔmǐ zú), Bai (白族, bái zú), Hui (回族, huí zú), and Han (汉族, hàn zú) ethnic groups coexist. Among these, the Tibetan population constitutes 35% of the area’s demographics. The region is characterized by its spiritual diversity, featuring three Tibetan Buddhist temples and one Christian church, with nearly half of the town’s population of over 16,000 identifying as religious believers, totaling more than 7,000 adherents.
Historical Significance
During the late Ming and early Qing Dynasties, local monks and laypeople carved a temple complex of over 40 prayer halls and meditation rooms into the mountainside. In the Qing Dynasty, Damo Temple was constructed on the southern side of the Damo Patriarch Cave, and Laiyuan Temple was established on the northern side. Together, they became renowned as important Buddhist pilgrimage sites.
Revival of Laiyuan Temple
In August 1984, a reconstruction of Laiyuan Temple was completed on the mountaintop to the left of the Damo Patriarch Cave. Since then, the temple has seen a revival in spiritual practices and increased devotion from visitors and locals alike.
How to Get There
To reach Laiyuan Temple, travelers can drive or take a bus to Weixi County. From there, follow the local roads to Tacheng Town and then to Qizong Village. Public transportation options may include local minibuses that connect major towns.
Travel Tips
- Time Required: Allocate 1-2 hours to explore the temple and surrounding areas.
- Opening Hours: Open daily from 08:00 to 18:00 (January 1 – December 31).
- Accommodation: Consider local guesthouses or hotels in Weixi County for an authentic experience of the region’s culture and hospitality.
- Cultural Respect: Dress modestly and respect local customs, especially when visiting religious sites.
- Safety: Be mindful of the altitude, as Weixi is located in mountainous terrain. Stay hydrated and acclimatize if needed.
Experience the rich spiritual heritage and stunning natural beauty of Laiyuan Temple in Weixi County for an unforgettable journey into Tibetan culture and traditions!
