Punhua Temple on the Nu River

　　Punhua Temple on the Nu River is less than an hour’s drive from Zhongding Catholic Church. It is situated in Dongfeng Village, and the modest Tibetan-style temple can be found by following a path through the village houses. The view of Shimen Pass from Punhua Temple is even more dramatic and precipitous than when seen from the banks of the Nu River. This spot offers a better vantage for capturing the rugged grandeur of Shimen Pass. The temple is usually locked, but you can ask for help opening it at the small house nearby. There is no entrance fee, but a small donation towards temple maintenance is appreciated.

　　The temple holds sacrificial ceremonies annually from the 25th to the 29th of the 12th lunar month, featuring masked dances to pray for favorable weather and abundant harvests. Ceremonies also take place from the 14th to the 16th of the first lunar month, known as “Zexi Zuo.” From the 15th to the 18th of the third lunar month, prayers, scripture chanting, and worship are conducted.