Badain Jaran Temple, Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Alxa Right Banner, China.
Badain Jaran Temple is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery located in Alxa Right Banner's desert landscape, featuring a two-story pavilion that blends Chinese and Tibetan architectural styles. The temple complex occupies a large area surrounded by sand dunes near Sumin Jaran Lake.
The monastery was built in 1755 during the Qing Dynasty and remained protected from destruction due to its remote desert location. It later gained national heritage status and has preserved its original structure intact.
The monastery serves as a gathering place where nomadic herders practice and celebrate Buddhist traditions throughout the year. The buildings show how Chinese and Tibetan customs have merged in this remote location.
Reaching the temple requires four-wheel-drive vehicles and experienced guides to navigate the challenging desert terrain. The ideal visiting season is from late September through October, when temperatures moderate and conditions become more comfortable.
The temple grounds border several spring-fed lakes that create island-like ecosystems within the otherwise arid desert. These waters include both saline and fresh varieties, supporting an unexpected diversity of plants and wildlife.
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