Zhami Temple
The largest surviving Tibetan Buddhist monastery in the area, originally founded by the Karmapa of Tibet in the Ming dynasty. Normally, only one or two monks guard the temple,…
Zhami Temple, Lugu Lake
Key facts
- Admission
- ¥20
- Opening hours
- 8：00—18：00
- Time needed
- 1–2 hours
- Getting there
- Take a bus from Ninglang County town to Yongning. After getting off, walk 2,000 metres north along Yongning Street; the temple is on the left side of the road.
- Guidebook rating
- 4 / 5
From China Self Guided Travel 2025, page 252. Open in Google Maps
About Zhami Temple
The largest surviving Tibetan Buddhist monastery in the area, originally founded by the Karmapa of Tibet in the Ming dynasty. Normally, only one or two monks guard the temple, but all the monks gather here during religious ceremonies. The temple holds several major gatherings each year, including the Miluoqimo Assembly from the 3rd to the 9th day of the first lunar month, with the Tiaoshen (deity dance) on the 7th day; the Cuqu Assembly in mid-March of the lunar calendar; the 45-day Yaneng Assembly held in the sixth and seventh lunar months; and the Ganden Anqu Assembly on the 25th day of the 10th lunar month, held in honour of Tsongkhapa.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Zhami Temple cost?
Admission to Zhami Temple is ¥20, as listed in the 2025 guidebook. Prices can change; check the official channel before you go.
What are the opening hours of Zhami Temple?
Zhami Temple is open 8：00—18：00.
How do I get to Zhami Temple?
Take a bus from Ninglang County town to Yongning. After getting off, walk 2,000 metres north along Yongning Street; the temple is on the left side of the road.
How long should I spend at Zhami Temple?
Plan on 1–2 hours for Zhami Temple.
Where is Zhami Temple?
Zhami Temple is in Lugu Lake, Yunnan Province, in the Southwest of China. Yongning Township, Ninglang Yi Autonomous County
More places in Lugu Lake
Lugu Three Islands
The Three Islands of Lake Lugu are Nixi Island, Liwubi Island and Naizhongpu Island, whose exquisite scenery is breathtaking. Nixi is the smallest of the three, covered in moss and shrubs. Liwubi is the largest island on Lake Lugu; at the end of the flower-lined path stands Liwubi Temple, a Tibetan Buddhist monastery that draws many worshippers. The island also has a white pagoda, the spirit tower of A Yunshan, steward of the Yongning Mosuo chieftain's residence. A Yunshan was a renowned figure in Yunnan, Sichuan and Tibet. Naizhongpu Island is lush with trees and home to countless birds. On the islands you can ride a horse or walk around to enjoy the beauty of Lake Lugu, and visit the Mosuo villages, whose people are known for their simple, genuine ways.
Included in the Lugu Lake Scenic Area main entrance ticket (main entrance ticket ¥70/person, half price ¥35) · 1-3 hours
Nisai Village
A natural Mosuo village with only 14 households, it is very peaceful and scenic. The famous Lovers' Tree and Early Love Tree are located here, and Nisai is also the starting point of the cable car to Gemu Goddess Mountain.
Free · 1 day
Luyuanya Cliff
The cliff here rises steeply, with a distinctive landscape. The viewing platform on top offers a sweeping view of Lugu Lake. Sitting on the rocks below the cliff, you may find yourself contemplating the wonder and harmony of nature, and feel a profound sense of the unity of heaven, earth and humanity.
Included in the Lugu Lake scenic area ticket · 1–2 hours
Caohai Marsh
Caohai (Grass Sea) takes its name from its shallow waters, caused by long-term silt deposition, and the dense reeds that grow here. It lies to the southeast of Lake Lugu, where reeds form walls and waterways criss-cross, like emeralds set into the lake.
Included in the Lake Lugu scenic area entrance ticket · 1–2 hours
Walking Marriage Bridge
The most famous spot in Caohai is the Walking Marriage Bridge, dubbed the “Number One Magpie Bridge Under Heaven”. It is a 300-metre wooden bridge extending out through the reeds of Caohai, and it is where Mosuo men and women carry out the walking marriage custom. Today the old bridge's timber has rotted and lies scattered across the marsh. The new bridge runs right beside the old one, spanning Caohai and providing convenience for local residents.
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Lige Peninsula
Lige Peninsula, with its beautiful scenery, sits at the foot of Gemu Goddess Mountain, where green hills meet clear waters. It is the best place to stay on Lake Lugu, especially lakeview rooms, where you can watch the sunrise and sunset, enjoy the views of lake and mountains, and listen to the water lapping at the shore at night. Each moment has its own charm.
Included in the Lake Lugu scenic area entrance ticket · 3–5 hours