Kumbum Monastery

Introducing Kumbum Monastery
Established in 1583 in a secluded valley near the Lusar village in the historical region of Amdo, the Kumbum Monastery, also referred to as Ta’er Temple, is a significant site in Tibetan Buddhism. It is the birthplace of Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, and ranks among the top six Gelug monasteries in China. The term “Kumbum” translates to “100,000 enlightening bodies of the Buddha”, and the monastery is named after the 100,000 images of Siṃhanāda that appear on the leaves of the sacred sandalwood tree.

The monastery complex is an architectural marvel that beautifully merges Han and Tibetan styles. It boasts towering temples and halls, each rising above the other, interspersed with palace buildings, Buddhist halls, living quarters, and courtyards. These structures complement each other, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the area. The monastery is celebrated for its unique “Three Arts” of Kumbum, which include Yak Butter Sculptures, Barbola (Tangka Embroidery), and Murals. It is a harmonious fusion of Tibetan and Han architectural styles and is home to a vast collection of invaluable Buddhist scriptures and scholarly texts.

Kumbum Monastery Fast Facts
• AKA: Ta’er Temple
• Chinese Name: Ta Er Si 塔尔寺
• Best Time to Visit: July to August
• Recommended Visiting Hours: 3-4 hours
• Things to Do: Photography, Architecture, Tibetan Buddhism
• Opening Hours: 07:30-18:00
• Entrance Fee: CNY 70 from Apr to Oct; CNY 40 from Nov to Mar
• Address: No. 56 Jinta Road, Huangzhong County, Xining, Qinghai Province

Timeline of the Kumbum Monastery
• 1357: Birth of Tsongkhapa, Gelug founder, born near future Kumbum site.
• 1419: Death of Tsongkhapa.
• 1577: Construction of the monastery begins to commemorate Tsongkhapa, 150 years after his death.
• 1583: Completion of the Kumbum Monastery.
• 1609: Construction begins on the Great Golden Tile Temple, the heart of the Kumbum Monastery complex.
• 1640: The Qing Dynasty grants the Kumbum Monastery the title of “Ta’er Si”, signifying its importance.
• 1724: Qing Emperor Kangxi visits Kumbum and donates generously.
• 18th Century: Kumbum flourishes as a center for learning, drawing students from Tibet and Mongolia.
• 1842: The Kumbum Monastery suffers significant damage during a rebellion against the Qing Dynasty.
• Late 19th Century: The Kumbum Monastery undergoes a period of revival and expansion.
• 1966-1976: The Cultural Revolution causes significant damage to the Kumbum Monastery.
• 1980s: The Kumbum Monastery begins to undergo restoration and reconstruction.
• Today: Kumbum remains a vibrant religious and cultural hub for Tibetans, drawing pilgrims worldwide.

Reasons to Visit the Kumbum Monastery
Historical Significance: The Kumbum Monastery holds a prominent position in Tibetan Buddhism. It is the birthplace of Tsongkhapa, who established the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, and it is considered one of the six most important Gelug monasteries in Tibet.

Unique Art Forms: The Kumbum Monastery is famous for its “Three Arts”: yak butter sculptures, Barbola embroidery, and murals. These art forms are unique to Tibet and offer a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Architectural Marvel: The monastery complex is a stunning architectural feat that seamlessly blends Han and Tibetan styles. It showcases impressive temples and halls, each ascending higher than the last, punctuated by palace buildings, Buddhist halls, living quarters, and courtyards.

What to Expect at Kumbum Monastery
The Kumbum Monastery spans approximately 36 acres. It comprises 9,300 rooms and 52 halls. The monastery is a collection of exquisite buildings that blend both Han and Tibetan architectural styles, gracefully arranged on the mountain slopes. It features towering temples and halls, each ascending above the other, interspersed with palace buildings, Buddhist halls, living quarters, and courtyards that complement each other.

Nine temples, each with its unique characteristics, are open to visitors. The most notable among them is the Grand Hall of Golden Tiles, which houses an 11-meter-high chörten (Tibetan stupa) marking the birthplace of Tsongkhapa. Another highlight is the Yak Butter Scripture Temple, which showcases intricate sculptures of human figures, animals, and landscapes, all skillfully carved out of yak butter.

The Eight Pagodas 八宝如意塔
The Eight Pagodas were initially constructed in 1776 to honor the eight merits and virtues of Buddha Shakyamuni. Situated in the monastery’s front square, these pagodas are viewed as one of the most symbolic edifices of the Kumbum Monastery. Each pagoda represents a unique event from Buddha Shakyamuni’s life. These events encompass Lotus, Bodhi, Turning Dharma Wheel, Conquering Heresies, Rebirth, Peace, Victory, and Nirvana.

The Tree of Great Merit
Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, was born in the year 1357. One tradition suggests that Tsongkhapa’s father buried the afterbirth where the monastery now stands, leading to the growth of a sandalwood tree at the spot. Another account proposes that the tree sprouted where drops of blood from Tsongkhapa’s umbilical cord had fallen. Regardless of the origin story, this tree earned the title of the “Tree of Great Merit.” It is believed that the leaves and bark of this tree carry impressions of Buddha’s face and various mystical syllables, and its blossoms emit a uniquely pleasant fragrance.

Grand Hall of Golden Tiles 大金瓦殿
Also known as Dàjīnwǎ Diàn, the Grand Hall of Golden Tiles is the central and most magnificent hall situated in the core of the Kumbum Monastery. This architectural wonder, built in 1379, boasts a palace with a three-eave gable and hip roof, walls embellished with glazed tiles, and roofs crafted from gilded copper. Inside the hall, an 11-meter-high chörten, a kind of Tibetan stupa, signifies the birthplace of Tsongkhapa. This notable feature draws a multitude of pilgrims who are often seen circumambulating the building and prostrating at its entrance.

Dhammapala Hall 小金瓦殿
Constructed in 1692, the Dhammapala Hall, also referred to as the Small Golden Tiled Hall, is a distinguished two-story structure adorned with gilded bronze tiles. The hall is especially recognized for being the home of the Dhammapala, a revered figure believed to have the ability to banish evil spirits.

Main Assembly Hall 大经堂
The Main Assembly Hall, the most expansive structure within the Kumbum Monastery complex, is the central hub for monks to recite sutras. Originally constructed in 1621, the hall was destroyed by fire in 1912 but was rebuilt in 1913, reclaiming its status as the monastery’s largest building. The hall can host simultaneous chanting by over a thousand lamas. The interior of the Main Assembly Hall is adorned with elegant ornaments, including colored sutra streamers, a caisson ceiling, and valuable Buddha barbola. In accordance with religious guidelines and Tibetan traditional art, the initially monotonous flat top has been enhanced with gilded bronze Aquarius, an ingenious pagoda, and inverted bells, transforming it into a vibrant yet solemn spectacle.

The "Three Arts" of Kumbum Monastery
Yak Butter Sculptures, crafted from yak butter mixed with pigments and other materials, depict Buddhist deities, animals, and scenes from scriptures. They are incredibly detailed and lifelike, and their vibrant colors add to their beauty. Due to the delicate nature of the material, these sculptures need to be recreated regularly, making them a true testament to the dedication and skill of the monks who create them.

Barbola (Tangka Embroidery): Barbola, also known as Tangka embroidery, is a unique Tibetan art form that combines silk embroidery with appliqués and other techniques. The Kumbum Monastery houses a collection of exquisite Barbola thangkas, which are large tapestries depicting religious scenes and figures. These intricate works of art are incredibly detailed and painstakingly created, often taking years to complete.

Murals: The walls of the Kumbum Monastery are adorned with vibrant and colorful murals depicting scenes from Buddhist mythology, Tibetan history, and everyday life. These murals are not only visually stunning but also serve as an important tool for religious education and storytelling. The diverse styles and techniques used in these murals reflect the rich artistic heritage of Tibet.

How to Get to Kumbum Monastery
By bus
• Bus 909 departs every six minutes from 6.30am to 6.40pm from Xining train station to the monastery.
• A direct express bus departs from Xining’s main bus station daily at 10am.

Charter a car or bus from GGC
• Kumbum Monastery is located approx. 35km away from Xining.
• Charter a car/bus to enjoy a hassle-free private round-trip transfer to Kumbum Monastery.

Additional Travel Advice on Kumbum Monastery
• Please dress and behave appropriately in the temple.
• It is forbidden to touch or move the Buddha images, offerings or instruments in the temple.
• It is forbidden take photos of the monks, devotees who are making a long kowtow and turning the prayer wheel.