[2025 Qamdo Attraction] Travel Guide for Qiangbalin Temple (Updated Jan)

Chamdo, the Pearl of Eastern Tibet Chamdo is located in the eastern part of the Tibet Autonomous Region, on the upper reaches of the Lancang River. It is the eastern gateway to Tibet, a must-see on the Sichuan-Tibet and Yunnan-Tibet highways, and an important place on the Ancient Tea Horse Road. It is also the first stop on the Ancient Tea Horse Road into Tibet. With its unique natural scenery and rich cultural heritage, it is known as the "Pearl of Eastern Tibet" 🌟. Must-see attractions • Zizhu Temple: One of the highest temples in Tibet, and one of the oldest, most important, and largest existing Bon temples. The temple buildings are scattered on the mountain tops, terraces, and cliffs, like a heavenly palace. • Thousand-year-old Salt Wells: The only place in the world with a thousand-year history of preserving the most primitive manual salt-drying methods. The salt fields are colorful, like a palette, and very spectacular. • Jampaling Monastery: The largest Gelugpa temple in the Chamdo region, with magnificent architecture, solemn Buddha statues, and exquisite murals, worth a visit. • Kamado Stupa Forest: Dozens of stupas with different shapes, sacred and solemn. Travel tips It is recommended to spend 5-7 days. On the first day, you can adapt to the altitude sickness in Chamdo city and visit Jampaling Monastery. On the second day, go to Kamado Stupa Forest and Xiawu Folk Village. On the third day, visit the thousand-year-old Salt Wells. On the fourth day, go to Zizhu Temple. On the fifth day, visit the Meiyu Grassland Scenic Area. On the sixth day, you can stay at Ranwu Lake and enjoy the lake and mountain scenery. On the seventh day, return to Chamdo city. Accommodation tips • Chamdo Kamba Hotel: Convenient location, complete facilities, attentive service, and comfortable and secure accommodation. • Basu Duola Sacred Mountain Hot Spring Hotel: Enjoy hot springs to relieve travel fatigue, with beautiful surroundings. Tips • Chamdo is at a high altitude, and you may experience altitude sickness when you first arrive. Prepare altitude sickness medication in advance, rest, and avoid strenuous exercise. • The temperature difference between day and night is large, so bring warm clothes 🧥 even in summer. • Respect local religious beliefs and customs. Keep quiet when visiting temples, and do not wear revealing or untidy clothing. Come to Chamdo and start an unforgettable journey to explore the Pearl of Eastern Tibet, and let your soul be baptized and purified on this magical land! 🌈

Chamdo, a hidden gem in eastern Tibet, exudes a captivating charm. It boasts breathtaking scenery and a rich cultural heritage, like a living history book waiting to be explored by travelers. Jampaling Monastery, an important monastery of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, is solemn and majestic. The exquisite statues and colorful murals within the monastery tell stories of religious mystery and devotion, with the scent of incense seemingly whispering the secrets of history. Ranwu Lake, like a giant mirror, is nestled among the mountains. Its clear blue waters reflect the snow-capped peaks and lush forests, with the changing colors of the seasons resembling a palette of nature's finest hues, leaving visitors enchanted and lost in its beauty. Laigu Glacier is a magnificent epic carved by time. The massive ice tongue extends from the mountain top, with the deep and mysterious blue ice offering a glimpse into the Earth's ancient memories and the awe-inspiring power of nature. The Ancient Tea Horse Road, a legendary trade route, still echoes with the sound of horse hooves on its stone paths. The weathered post stations, though worn, continue to guard the stories of the past, evoking memories of the hardships and bravery of the horse caravans. The ancient salt fields of Yanjing, with their unique salt-drying methods, have been preserved to this day. The terraced salt fields glisten in the sunlight, creating a striking contrast with the rushing Lancang River, showcasing the wisdom of the local people. Every attraction in Chamdo is a perfect blend of nature and culture. Here, you can listen to the dialogue between the wind and prayer flags, feel the warmth of the sun piercing through the clouds, and experience the profound culture of eastern Tibet. Exploring Chamdo is an ultimate feast for the soul and senses, with each step leading you into a dreamlike wonderland and each glance etching an everlasting memory of beauty. Jampaling Monastery

🌅 Day 1: In-depth Tour of Chamdo City Morning: Arrive in Chamdo, first visit the Tea Horse Road Ancient Culture District to feel the footsteps of the ancient horse caravans and try some local snacks🍜. Noon: Find a Tibetan restaurant in the city to taste Tibetan tsampa and butter tea, experiencing the Tibetan flavor🍵. Evening: Go to Qiangbalin Temple to appreciate the night view of the temple and feel the solemnity and tranquility of Buddhism🕯️. Photo check-in: Tea Horse Road, Qiangbalin Temple Must-visit spots: Tea Horse Road Ancient Culture District, Qiangbalin Temple 🏞️ Day 2: Journey through Natural Scenery Morning: Head to Ranwu Lake to enjoy the lake and mountain scenery and capture the stunning sunrise🌅. Noon: Have a picnic by the lake, feeling the freshness and tranquility of nature🍞. Evening: Go to Laigu Glacier to watch the magnificent view of the glacier under the sunset🏔️. Photo check-in: Ranwu Lake, Laigu Glacier Must-visit spots: Ranwu Lake, Laigu Glacier 🌌 Day 3: Cultural Exploration and Return Trip Morning: Visit the Karuo Ruins to understand the prehistoric culture of Chamdo and feel the weight of history🏛️. Noon: Taste authentic farmhouse dishes in a nearby village, experiencing the simple rural life🥦. Evening: End the pleasant trip to Chamdo, prepare for the return journey, and head home with full memories🎒. Photo check-in: Karuo Ruins, rural scenery Must-visit spot: Karuo Ruins Warm tips💡: 1. Tibet is at a high altitude, be aware of altitude sickness and carry necessary medications. 2. The climate in Chamdo is variable, please prepare sunscreen and warm clothing. 3. Respect local customs and habits, protect the environment, and do not litter. 4. Book accommodations and transportation in advance to ensure a smooth trip.