MY TRAVEL INFO: THE PUTUO ZONGCHENG TEMPLE, CHENDE, CHINA

The Putuo Zongcheng Temple is a magnificent Qing Dynasty Buddhist temple complex in Chengde, Hebei, China, renowned as the "Little Potala Palace" (小布达拉宫) due to its design inspiration from the Potala Palace in Tibet.In fact, its Chinese name Putuo Zongcheng is the Manchu and Chinese rendition of Potala. 

It is a UNESCO World Heritage site (1994) and the largest of Chengde's Eight Outer Temples.

Visitor Information:

• Location: The temple is located on the north Huancheng Road, Shuangqiao District, Chengde City, Hebei Province. It is situated near the Chengde Mountain Resort.
• Opening Hours: It is generally open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (17:00), with potential variations during peak season (April-October) where it may close slightly later at 5:30 PM (17:30).
• Admission Fee: The admission fee varies by season. It is approximately 80 yuan during peak season (April-October) and 60 yuan during off-season. Discounts are available for students, and entrance is typically free for seniors over 70 with a valid passport.
• Visiting Tips: A visit typically takes 2 to 4 hours. Be prepared for a significant number of stairs and uphill walking, which offers superb panoramic views of the surrounding area and distant hills.

Architecture & History:

• Architectural Style: The temple is a stunning example of Han-Tibetan fusion architecture, featuring flat-roofed white walls typical of Tibetan style, mixed with traditional Chinese architectural elements and golden-tiled roofs. The primary structure is the "Great Red Platform".
• Historical Significance: Built between 1767 and 1771 during the reign of the Qianlong Emperor, the temple commemorated his 60th birthday and his mother's 80th birthday. It was a political and cultural symbol, serving as a place for the emperor to meet with envoys and leaders from ethnic minorities, such as those from Mongolia and Tibet, symbolizing the unity of the Qing empire.

Reference:

1. Wikipedia: Putuo Zongcheng Temple. 
2. Top China Travel: Putuo Zongcheng Temple.

15 December 2025: 10.45 p.m