Discover Baizha Monastery: A Hidden Gem on Your Gannan Road Trip

📍Location: Baizha Monastery, a niche temple hidden in Banma County, Golog Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai, awaits you on the self-drive route from Jiuzhi to Seda. Far from the hustle and bustle, it anticipates the visit of every traveler. 📅Suggested Itinerary: Recommended route: Depart from Maqu, Gannan, and head north along the picturesque G345 National Highway, passing through Jiuzhi County, and finally arriving at Banma County. Here, Baizha Monastery is a cultural treasure you won't want to miss. The next day, depart from Banma and continue your journey to Seda. This route not only allows you to appreciate the magnificent scenery of the Tibetan area but also to experience the unique local religious culture and folk customs. 🌄Must-See Spot 1: Stupa Forest Upon entering Baizha Monastery, the first thing that catches your eye is the unique stone stupa forest. These stupas are scattered in an orderly fashion, each carrying a rich history and faith, representing the pinnacle of "stupa forests" in Qinghai. Strolling among them is like traveling back to an ancient and mysterious era, feeling the tranquility and simplicity. 🌄Must-See Spot 2: Mountaintop Stupa As one of the landmarks of Baizha Monastery, the mountaintop stupa stands out with its polygonal architectural style, leaving a lasting impression. Although it is currently closed to the public for preservation, the solemnity and sacredness can still be felt from afar. Stop at the foot of the stupa, gaze at the distant snow-capped mountains and blue sky, and experience this spiritual baptism. 🌄Must-See Spot 3: Stone Carvings Baizha Monastery is not only a religious sanctuary but also a gathering place for Tibetan stone carving art. A large number of exquisite Buddhist stone carving printing plates are scattered within the temple and its surrounding areas, each embodying the craftsman's dedication and wisdom. Here, you can admire these stone carvings up close, appreciate their delicacy and exquisiteness, and experience the unique charm of Tibetan culture. 🚗Transportation: Self-driving is the most convenient way to reach Baizha Monastery. Starting from Maqu, Gannan, drive north along G345 National Highway. The road conditions are good, and the scenery along the way is picturesque. It is recommended to depart early in the morning to fully enjoy the pleasure of self-driving and avoid the inconvenience of driving at night. After arriving in Banma County, you can ask local residents or refer to local tourist information to easily find the location of Baizha Monastery. In addition, there is free parking around the temple for visitors' convenience. 💗Other Tips: 1. Voluntary Donations: When visiting Baizha Monastery, it's a good idea to prepare some small change for voluntary donations. This is not only a sign of respect for faith but also a purification of one's inner self. 2. Altitude Sickness Prevention: The altitude in Golog, Qinghai is relatively high, and first-time visitors may experience altitude sickness. It is recommended to prepare in advance, bring necessary medications, and maintain a good mindset and routine to ensure a pleasant journey. 3. Respect Local Customs: When visiting the temple, please respect local religious customs and ethnic traditions. Do not take photos or make loud noises at will, so as not to disturb the believers' practice and prayers. 4. Reasonable Time Arrangement: Although Baizha Monastery is not large, every corner is worth savoring. It is recommended to allocate about 2 hours for the visit to fully experience the tranquility and mystery of this ancient Tibetan area. 5. Safe Driving: Please pay attention to driving safety when driving to the monastery. Especially on winding mountain roads, be extra cautious to ensure a safe journey. ------ In this mysterious and ancient land, Baizha Monastery is like a shining pearl, quietly emitting its unique brilliance. Whether you are a self-driving enthusiast or someone who yearns for tranquility and faith, this will be an unforgettable travel experience. Take this guide and embark on your journey of discovery!