Puning Temple is the only one of the Outer Eight Temples still occupied by monks and is a popular destination.
Puning Temple, also dedicated to Guanyin Bodhisattva, was built between the 20th and 24th years of the Qianlong Emperor's reign (1755-1759). Covering 23,000 square meters, it was the first imperial temple constructed by Emperor Qianlong in Chengde. It commemorated the suppression of the rebellion of Amursana and Dawachi of the Dzungar tribe of the Eleuth Mongols and was modeled after the Samye Monastery in Tibet. Emperor Qianlong inscribed the name "Puning Temple" to symbolize the people's "peaceful homes, happy careers, and eternal peace."
The temple is meticulously laid out along a north-south axis, with the southern half embodying Han-style architecture and the northern half Tibetan. The main building, the Mahayana Pavilion, is modeled after the Utse Hall of Samye Monastery. It houses the world's largest gilded wooden sculpture of the Thousand-Armed and Thousand-Eyed Guanyin Bodhisattva, standing 27.21 meters tall and weighing 110 tons. Crafted from five woods: pine, cypress, elm, linden, and fir, it boasts a majestic presence and exquisite craftsmanship. Remember to rotate the prayer wheel clockwise for a blessing!
Puning Temple's paid parking lot costs 10 yuan for 12 hours. Restrooms are available, so some RVs and motorhomes choose to camp there.
Puning Temple is very close to the Chengde Museum. After worshipping there, you can visit the museum to learn more about Chengde's history and geography.