How To Reach Gwanumsa Temple

Reaching Gwanumsa Temple in Kaesong, North Korea

Traveling to Gwanumsa Temple in Kaesong, North Korea, typically involves a few specific steps due to the controlled nature of tourism in North Korea.

Step 1: Plan Your Trip

Contact a specialized travel agency that is authorized to organize trips to North Korea. You will not be able to travel independently. The agency will usually take care of all the necessary paperwork, including visas and permits.

Step 2: Traveling to North Korea

Most tours start from Beijing, where you will take a flight or train to Pyongyang – the capital of North Korea. Your agency will provide details on how to get to Beijing and assist with the arrangements from there.

Step 3: Arrival in Pyongyang

Upon arrival in Pyongyang, you will be met by your North Korean guides who will accompany you for the duration of your stay. Any travel within North Korea will be as part of an organized tour group and under supervision.

Step 4: Traveling to Kaesong

Kaesong is located approximately 160 km south of Pyongyang. Travel will be arranged by your tour agency and typically involves a bus or car. The journey may take around 2 to 3 hours depending on road and traffic conditions.

Step 5: Reaching Gwanumsa Temple

Once in Kaesong, your tour group will be taken to Gwanumsa Temple. The temple is situated on the slopes of Mt. Janam, inside the historical area of Kaesong, which was the capital of Goryeo Dynasty. Be prepared for a short hike as the temple is located on a hill, offering scenic views of the surrounding area.

Important Considerations

• Ensure that you follow all rules and regulations provided by the guides and the travel agency; North Korea is known for its strict policies.
• Photography may be restricted, and permission should be sought before taking pictures or videos.
• Your itinerary in North Korea, including a visit to Gwanumsa Temple, will be predetermined and strictly controlled.
• Currency exchange and access to local currency should be discussed with your travel agency as credit cards and foreign currency are not widely accepted.
• Travel insurance that covers North Korea is highly recommended.

Please note that due to the ever-changing nature of travel regulations, especially concerning North Korea, it is essential to verify the most current information with your travel agency before making any plans.