Login

Sign Up

After creating an account, you'll be able to track your payment status, track the confirmation and you can also rate the tour after you finished the tour.
Username*
Password*
Confirm Password*
First Name*
Last Name*
Birth Date*
Email*
Phone*
Country*
* Creating an account means you're okay with our Terms of Service and Privacy Statement.
Please agree to all the terms and conditions before proceeding to the next step

Already a member?

Login
+86 150-8901-2527 Info@Tourtraveltibet.com

Login

Sign Up

After creating an account, you'll be able to track your payment status, track the confirmation and you can also rate the tour after you finished the tour.
Username*
Password*
Confirm Password*
First Name*
Last Name*
Birth Date*
Email*
Phone*
Country*
* Creating an account means you're okay with our Terms of Service and Privacy Statement.
Please agree to all the terms and conditions before proceeding to the next step

Already a member?

Login

Discover the Enigmatic Langbajianzi Temple: A Jewel of Tibetan Culture

Nestled in the rugged terrains of Mangkang County, within the picturesque Zaguxi Gorge, lies the fascinating Langbajianzi Temple, also affectionately known as the Princess Wencheng Temple. This unique temple, occupying a modest space of 350 square meters at the gorge’s base, is steeped in legends and history that captivate the imagination of all who visit.

A Legend Carved in Stone

The origins of Langbajianzi Temple are as mystical as they are ancient. According to local lore, the revered Guru Padmasambhava, while subduing a demoness, injured his nose. To mark this event, he used his own blood to draw an image of Langbajianzi on a cliff. This sacred image remains concealed, revealing itself only when water is sprinkled on the cliff, bringing the intricate carving to life.

A Testament to Ancient Craftsmanship

Constructed in 710 AD during the powerful Tibetan Empire, the temple is a marvel of architectural ingenuity, built against a giant rock. It houses lifelike statues of Songtsen Gampo and Princess Wencheng, believed to have been naturally formed. However, the temple’s crown jewel is undoubtedly its Tang Dynasty stone carvings. Crafted by artisans from the Tang Dynasty to commemorate Princess Jincheng’s journey into Tibet, these carvings are over 1200 years old, offering a window into the rich cultural exchange between Tibet and the Han Chinese.

The main deity of the temple’s stone carvings is the Great Sun Tathagata, flanked by eight Bodhisattvas and figures of Laozi and Zhuangzi, showcasing an early Tang artistic style. The exquisite detail in the deity’s attire and ornaments highlights the profound artistic and cultural exchanges that have shaped the region.

A Gathering Point for Faithful Hearts

Langbajianzi Temple is not just a site of historical significance; it is a living center of faith and culture. Celebrated on the 14th day of the first and twelfth months of the Tibetan calendar, the temple hosts the “Mangjue” and “Sujue” pilgrimage festivals. These events draw believers from Batang, Yunnan, and nearby areas, who come together in a communal prayer for happiness and good fortune.

The Forgotten Town of Nandun

The temple’s location, Rendui, also known as Nandun or Ladui in Tibetan, meaning “a gathering place of gods and Buddhas,” has a rich history. Once a bustling trade hub from the Tang Dynasty to the Republic of China era, Nandun’s glory days are captured in the annals of history. However, with the passage of time, Nandun has faded into obscurity, remembered only through the legends of the Great Sun Tathagata Temple.

Conclusion

The Langbajianzi Temple stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of Tibetan and Han Chinese cultural exchange. It embodies the spiritual devotion, artistic excellence, and historical depth of the Tibetan people. A visit to this ancient temple is not just a journey through the picturesque landscapes of Tibet but a voyage into the heart of its profound cultural heritage, where legends and history merge into one.

About the author

The Tibetan Travel website's creator, hailing from Lhasa, is a cultural enthusiast. They promote responsible tourism, connecting the world to Tibet's beauty and heritage. Awards recognize their contribution.

Leave a Reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Proceed Booking