Plan at a glance
Location and entering the temple
Gegen Temple is about 30 kilometers southeast of Ulanhot, at the foot of the southern slope of Taolaitu Mountain and on the left bank of the Taoer River. Search for “Gegen Temple (葛根庙)” in your map app. The entrance is beside Township Road 005 (005乡道); after entering, you reach a parking area and continue on foot into the temple grounds.
Tickets and opening
Admission is free. Opening hours for the courtyards, halls and rear hillside path may differ; follow the notice at the entrance for the areas open that day.
Tickets and visit details
View visit options for this attraction and confirm the visit date and current arrangements before you go.
Choose your visit
From Lianhuatu Temple to today’s Gegen Temple
Gegen Temple traces its roots to Lianhuatu Temple, which received the name “Fantong Temple” in 1748. Construction of the later temple complex began in 1796, and four main halls were completed in 1798. The site was subsequently damaged, and the buildings visitors see today largely date from rebuilding that began in 1988.
Four halls and a hillside pagoda
The reconstructed temple is centered on four main halls. From east to west, they are Gongde Renyuan Temple (功德仁远寺), Xianmi Jiujing Temple (显密究竟寺), Fantong Temple (梵通寺) and Puti Jidu Temple (菩提济度寺). They stand together in the level courtyard. A pagoda sits partway up the hill behind the halls; climb the steps to reach it only when the path is open and everyone in your group can manage the climb.
Each hall has a different role: Gongde Renyuan Temple enshrines the Buddhas of the Three Ages and relics of the seventh Gegen; Xianmi Jiujing Temple is used for major religious ceremonies; Fantong Temple is the main hall; and Puti Jidu Temple is also known locally as the Wealth God Hall.
The rebuilt courtyard’s main sights are the four halls and the hillside pagoda.
Choosing between the halls and the pagoda
Visitors interested in the temple’s history and statues can focus on the four halls and their contents. If you want a higher viewpoint over the grassland, continue to the hillside pagoda when the rear path is open. The level courtyard remains a visit option for anyone in your group who cannot climb the steps.
Build your day
A short courtyard visit
Enter through the temple gate and see the white pagoda near the entrance first. Continue along the main courtyard path past the prayer-wheel corridor and the four halls. Visit the halls that are open, then return to the gate the same way. Allow about one hour for this route, which focuses on the temple buildings without climbing the rear hill.
The halls and rear hillside
Visit the four halls first. If the path is open, follow the signs behind the halls and climb to the hillside pagoda for views over the surrounding grassland, then return to the courtyard along the same path. Allow about 2–3 hours in total. The uphill steps take around 15–20 minutes; viewing time and the return walk are additional.
Gegen Temple is about 30 kilometers from the city. Allow extra time for the road in both directions; half a day gives you more room for a visit. If you combine it with Genghis Khan Temple, include the drive between the two before deciding whether to add the longer hillside route.
Get there
Driving and public transport
Drive or hire a car from Ulanhot; the trip takes about 30 minutes, depending on your starting point and traffic. Navigate to “Gegen Temple (葛根庙).” There is a parking area near the entrance, usually free; spaces on holidays depend on current conditions.
The Ulanhot municipal government’s 2026 work report says the Gegen Temple passenger station has opened. Ask the station about current departure times and where to get off near the temple entrance. Once you have confirmed your outbound trip, arrange your return ride as well.
Know before you go
Opening areas, meals and photography
The courtyards, halls and rear hillside path may have different opening times. Religious events, weather or maintenance can also change which areas are accessible. Check the entrance notice on arrival for any registration requirements and the halls and paths open that day.
Vegetarian meals may not be served regularly, and visitor meal times and conditions are unclear. Bring water and a simple snack, and plan to eat back in Ulanhot.
Gegen Temple is an active religious site. If a prayer service or ceremony is taking place, keep quiet and stay within visitor areas without disturbing worshippers. Follow on-site rules for photography inside the halls.
Steps and the return trip
The rear hillside has a long flight of steps; wear shoes with good grip. After rain or snowfall, check the path conditions and whether it is open. If it is closed or anyone feels uncomfortable climbing, finish your visit in the level courtyard.