Shaqiong Temple || The sacred sounds from the cliff

|| The sacred sounds from the cliff. Shaqiong Temple is located in Chapu Township, Hualong County, about a two-hour drive from Xining. This temple was founded in 1349 and is well-known in the Tibetan region. Its founder was Tsongkhapa's mentor, Drupchen Dorjechang. In 1363, at the tender age of 7, Tsongkhapa was ordained here. He later emerged as a prominent figure in Lhasa and founded the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, which has led to the site being honored as the cradle of the Gelug tradition. At the summit of the temple stands a colossal statue of Tsongkhapa, with the golden dome of the hall shimmering in the sunlight. The road to Shaqiong Temple is quite rugged, requiring an ascent along the mountain. At its narrowest, it only allows for one vehicle to pass, with cliffs on the side, demanding extra caution. Due to its inaccessibility, there are few tourists, but a steady stream of devotees. They hurry around the giant statue, chanting and praying, or bowing devoutly outside the hall, with incense smoke curling inside the temple. Looking out from the railing, one can see the meandering Yellow River and the farms and villages below, a picturesque scene. 【Navigation Guide】To get to Shaqiong Temple, it's about a 2-hour drive from Xining. After descending the mountain, consider visiting Jianzha Kangyang Town, known as 'the first town of the Yellow River', where the water is clear and the scenery is charming.