Qamdo: A City of Charm on the Plateau

Qamdo City covers a total area of 110,000 square kilometers and has a total population of about 786,000. It has a long history and is one of the birthplaces of Khampa culture, with unique cultural charm and magnificent natural scenery. Itinerary Overview Days: 5 days Route map: [Qiangbalin Monastery — Karo Ruins — Ranwu Lake — Laigu Glacier — Zi Zhu Monastery] Budget: Approx. CNY 3,000 (excluding accommodation, which varies depending on the hotel chosen) Best time to visit: Summer Daily Itinerary [DAY 1] Visit Qiangbalin Monastery Qiangbalin Monastery is the oldest and largest Gelugpa monastery in the Kham region. It houses a large collection of cultural relics such as Buddha statues and Thangkas. 📍How to get there: Located in Qamdo city center, accessible on foot or by taxi. ✅Recommended route: Main gate → Main hall → Other halls, etc. 📸Must-see photo spots: Panoramic view of Qiangbalin Monastery. 💡Tips: Respect the religious customs of the monastery. 🏨Recommended accommodation: Qamdo Hotel (convenient location). 😋Recommended food: Butter tea, tsampa, etc., about CNY 20 per person. [DAY 2] Explore the Karo Ruins The Karo Ruins are one of the three major prehistoric cultural sites in Tibet, where you can experience the life of ancient humans. 📍How to get there: About 12 km from Qamdo city center, accessible by taxi. ✅Recommended route: Ruins Museum → Ruins excavation site, etc. 📸Must-see photo spots: Iconic view of the ruins. 💡Tips: Pay attention to the protection of cultural relics when visiting the ruins. 🏨Recommended accommodation: Qamdo Jusheng Garden Hotel (pleasant environment). 😋Recommended food: Tibetan noodles, etc., about CNY 15 per person. [DAY 3] Enjoy Ranwu Lake Ranwu Lake has crystal-clear water and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, offering stunning scenery. 📍How to get there: It is quite far from Qamdo city center. You can take a bus to Basu County first, and then transfer to Ranwu Lake. ✅Recommended route: Stroll along the lake → Enjoy the view from the viewing platform, etc. 📸Must-see photo spots: Take a photo of Ranwu Lake with the snow-capped mountains in the background. 💡Tips: Be aware of weather changes and dress warmly. 🏨Recommended accommodation: Ranwu International Self-driving & RV Camp (unique accommodation experience). 😋Recommended food: Yak beef hot pot, about CNY 50 per person. [DAY 4] Explore Laigu Glacier Laigu Glacier is one of the three largest glaciers in the world. The glacier tongues and ice towers are breathtaking. 📍How to get there: You can charter a car from Ranwu Lake. ✅Recommended route: Glacier viewing platform → Close contact with the glacier, etc. 📸Must-see photo spots: Panoramic view of the glacier. 💡Tips: Pay attention to safety when visiting the glacier and follow the guide's instructions. 🏨Recommended accommodation: Laigu Village Guesthouse (experience local life). 😋Recommended food: Highland barley wine, etc., about CNY 25 per person. [DAY 5] Visit Zi Zhu Monastery Zi Zhu Monastery is located on a steep mountain and is one of the oldest and most important Bon monasteries. 📍How to get there: It is some distance from Qamdo city center. You can charter a car. ✅Recommended route: Visit the monastery complex, etc. 📸Must-see photo spots: Panoramic view of Zi Zhu Monastery. 💡Tips: Respect religious beliefs and customs. 🏨Recommended accommodation: Hotels in Riwoqê County (choose according to your actual needs). 😋Recommended food: Tibetan pastries, etc., about CNY 20 per person. Things to Avoid - Qamdo has a high altitude, so be aware of altitude sickness and prepare in advance. - Check the local weather conditions before traveling and plan your itinerary accordingly. I hope this guide will help you have an unforgettable time in Qamdo! Follow me to explore more beautiful places!