Guangzong Monastery (Nansi) & Helan Mountain Scenic Area
广宗寺
A renowned Tibetan Buddhist temple nestled among mountains on the western slopes of the Helan Range, backed by the Xuelingzi primeval forest. It is Alxa's most classic scenic spot.
Guangzong Monastery, commonly known as Nansi (South Temple), was first built during the Qianlong era of the Qing dynasty. It is the largest of the eight major temples of Alxa and is widely known in Mongolian and Tibetan regions, with legends linking it to the Sixth Dalai Lama, Tsangyang Gyatso. The monastery sits in a valley about 2,000 m above sea level on the western slope of the Helan Mountains, with halls stacked up the hillside and Qinghai spruce forests all around. The scenic area (a national 4A-level attraction) also includes Zhanmao Mountain and the Xuelingzi primeval forest. A sightseeing shuttle takes visitors up to Xuelingzi to see the sea of forest and bharal (blue sheep). Admission is about 80 yuan, and the round-trip sightseeing shuttle is about 30 yuan (prices may vary on site). The monastery is about 40 km from Bayan Hot, so you need to drive yourself or hire a car. Allow half a day to a full day, and bring a jacket, as the mountains are cool in the morning and evening.
Opening hours
About 08:00–18:00
Nearby sights
- Alxa Museum
- Dingyuanying Ancient Town
- Yanfu Temple
- Fuyin Monastery (Beisi)
- Swan Lake (Tengger Desert)
- Dream Desert Motor Park
- Moon Lake (Tengger Desert)
- Tonghu Grassland