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

Crowned by Glaciers, Marked by Sacred Peaks: The Fierce Romance of Nature's Pinnacle Ranwu Lake: A Kaleidoscope of Seasons—Spring brings rhododendrons embracing snow-capped peaks reflected in the water, while winter freezes the lake into a mirror-like expanse of blue ice. Hiking along its shores feels like stepping into the sacred realm of *Frozen*. LaiGu Glacier: Reach out and touch millennia-old blue ice caves, where sunlight pierces through icicles, casting divine light. Locals say, "One lick is sweeter than first love." Three-Color Lake: Black Lake resembles ink jade sinking into the abyss, White Lake spills like milk, and Yellow Lake boils like molten lava—here, the earth paints a liquid rainbow at 4,200 meters above sea level. Hanging Monasteries and Ancient Salt: Faith as Sharp as a Blade—The Wild Totems of Khampa Culture Zhiduo Monastery: The "City in the Sky" perched on a 4,800-meter cliff, where Bon monks tread barefoot through thousand-year-old rock caves, and vultures carry sunset hues past the Heavenly Gate. Here, one "sees heaven and earth, sees all living beings." Qiangbalin Monastery: Morning prayers blend with the scent of juniper incense, while monks debate in swirling robes. Around the corner, a small shop serves spicy cold noodles with red oil for 10 yuan—a bite so fiery it sends your soul soaring. Tea-Horse Square: Folk dances shatter the twilight, and at Delecang Bistro, yak tongue paired with Tibetan pepper delivers a taste of the Hengduan Mountains' untamed spirit. Hardcore Guide: Must-Read Before Pledging Your Soul ✈️ Transport: Fly directly to Qamdo Bangda Airport, then rent a 4WD for 500 yuan/day to conquer the 72 Hairpin Turns (not for beginners!). 🏨 Stay: Stargaze from a Ranwu Lake glass-roofed room or soothe altitude fatigue with a Tibetan herbal bath at Songtsam Hotel. 📅 Best Time: August for flower seas, September-October for autumn foliage, or winter for glacier visits (no entrance fee!). ⚠️ Taboos: No photos of Buddha statues in temples, walk clockwise around prayer wheels. Pack ibuprofen for altitude sickness and sweet tea for homesickness.

| The Ultimate 3-Day & 3-Night Chamdo Travel Guide🌟 Chamdo, the pearl of Eastern Tibet, boasts mysterious religious culture, breathtaking natural landscapes, and uniquely flavored local cuisine. This guide will immerse you in the wonders of Chamdo! 🚀 **Itinerary** **Day 1: Temples & City Vibes** Morning: After arriving in Chamdo, check in at your hotel to rest and acclimate to the high altitude. Then head to **Chamdo Qiangbalin Monastery**, the largest Gelugpa monastery in Kham, majestically perched where the Zaqu and Angqu rivers meet. The morning chants of monks and the incense from burning juniper create a profound spiritual atmosphere. Admire the exquisite Buddha statues and vibrant murals inside. Noon: Enjoy authentic butter tea and tsampa at **Shengdi Ranlinqi Tibetan Restaurant** near the monastery. Afternoon: Stroll through **Tea Horse Square**, where Tibetan culture blends with modern life. The surrounding Changqing Street features distinctive architecture and charming handicraft shops. Relax at a Tibetan teahouse with sweet tea and barley cakes. Evening: Take a riverside walk along the Zaqu River and savor a yak hotpot dinner at a Tibetan restaurant by the bank. **Day 2: History & Nature** Morning: Visit the **Karuo Ruins**, a Neolithic-to-Bronze Age archaeological site. Wander through 4,000-year-old remnants of ancient life and explore artifacts that reveal the origins of Tibetan culture. Noon: Return to the city for Tibetan steamed buns and yak yogurt at **Amma Kitchen**. Afternoon: Experience traditional village life in **Xiao'enda Village** and try making Tibetan incense. Evening: If timing allows, catch the *"Impressions of Chamdo"* cultural performance for an immersive local experience. Or explore the night market at leisure. **Day 3: Sacred Mountains & Lakes** Morning: Charter a car to **Guburi Sacred Mountain**, Eastern Tibet’s "First Holy Mountain." Hike pilgrimage trails, discover mystical caves and colorful prayer flags, and soak in the majestic views. Noon: Picnic at the mountain base (remember to pack out trash). Afternoon: Stop at **Zhugula Mountain Pass** to hang prayer flags for blessings before returning to the city for your departure. **Food Picks** Beyond the above, don’t miss: - **Pengyuan Stone Pot Yak Meat Sour Soup** (~¥100/person): Tender yak meat in a savory broth. - **Shuzhong Wu Stone Pot Chestnut Chicken** (~¥75/person): Nourishing and delicious. - **Tea Horse Road Tibetan Restaurant** (~¥40/person): Authentic ambiance and flavors. **Travel Tips** 1. **Altitude Prep**: Avoid showers/alcohol upon arrival. Bring glucose oral solution and rent oxygen tanks (available at hotels). 2. **Transport**: Attractions are spread out—charter a car (~¥500–600/day) or arrange shared rides via your hotel. 3. **Packing**: Pack layers (temperature swings!), sun protection, and warm gear for mountain hikes. 4. **Etiquette**: Don’t point at Buddha statues; circle prayer wheels clockwise. Ask permission before photographing locals. 5. **Misc**: Chamdo’s elevation is ~3,200m—consider rhodiola supplements for altitude prevention. Mobile signals are stable but may drop in remote areas. Embark on your magical Eastern Tibet adventure in Chamdo! 💕

📍Detailed Address: • Chamdo, Tibet: Located in eastern Tibet Autonomous Region, about 130 meters northwest of Chamdo Experimental Primary School on Chamdo West Road, Chamdo City. 🚗Transportation Guide: • By Air: Direct flights to Chamdo Bangda Airport are available from Chengdu, Chongqing, Lhasa, and other cities with high frequency. Book tickets in advance for discounts. • By Bus: Long-distance buses to Chamdo are available from Chengdu, Chongqing, Lhasa, and other cities. The journey is long but offers beautiful scenery along the way. • By Train + Bus: First take a train to Chengdu or Chongqing, then transfer to a long-distance bus to Chamdo. This option is suitable for travelers with plenty of time. • Self-driving: Drive along the Sichuan-Tibet Highway to Chamdo, enjoying the beautiful scenery and experiencing Tibetan culture along the way. 🕙Opening Hours: • Due to the numerous attractions in Chamdo, Tibet, with varying opening hours, there is no unified schedule. Opening hours for each attraction need to be checked separately. For example, Hailuogou Scenic Area is open all day, while Midui Glacier is open from 8:00-14:00 in winter and spring, and 7:00-14:30 in summer and autumn. 💰Ticket Prices: • Ticket prices for attractions in Chamdo, Tibet vary. Specific costs depend on the attractions you visit. Tickets for some famous attractions may range from 100 to 200 yuan. For example, Midui Glacier tickets cost 50 yuan per person, including shuttle bus service. 🌟Highlights: • Natural Scenery: Chamdo features towering mountains, deep valleys, and crisscrossing ravines with magnificent natural landscapes, such as Ranwu Lake, Qiangbalin Monastery, Mangkang Salt Wells, Dongba Residences, Three-Color Lake, and Latuo Wetland. • History and Culture: Chamdo is one of the birthplaces of the ancient Qinghai-Tibet Plateau culture and an important distribution center on the Ancient Tea Horse Road, with rich historical cultural relics and human landscapes. 📌Tips: • Altitude Sickness: Chamdo is located in a high-altitude area. Visitors should prepare in advance by bringing warm clothing, hats, sunglasses, lip balm, moisturizing skincare products, etc., and avoid strenuous exercise and excessive fatigue. • Clothing Guide: Chamdo has large temperature differences between day and night. In winter, the temperature difference between day and night can reach 15 degrees, and about 10 degrees in other seasons. Be sure to dress warmly. • Diet and Daily Life: After entering Tibet, eat more carbohydrates and easily digestible foods, drink plenty of water to maintain adequate hydration, avoid overeating at dinner, and it's best not to drink alcohol or smoke. • Activity Planning: Tourism activities should not be too frequent, and physical burden should not be too heavy. When first arriving at high altitudes, avoid walking quickly, running, or doing physical labor.

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!

My dears, take an 11-day tour from Chengdu to Seda to Baqing to explore the beautiful scenery of western Sichuan! Super detailed guide is coming, hurry up and grab it! -------------------- 🛤️Route arrangement: DAY1-DAY2: Depart for Chengdu, pass Wenchuan and Ma'erkang, and arrive at Guanyinqiao Town or Ma'erkang for a rest. DAY3: Go to Seda from Guanyinqiao Town and arrive at Seda County. DAY4: Visit Seda County, pass Kasa Lake, Gesar King City, Xinluhai, and arrive at Derge. DAY5: Depart from Derge, visit Derge Sutra Printing House, go to Tibet Jiefang Village, Qambaling Monastery, and then to Qamdo. DAY6-DAY7: Depart from Chamdo, visit Leiwuqi, Zizhu Mountain, go to Bianba County via Dingqing, and visit Wala Monastery and Three-Colored Lake on the way. DAY8-DAY9: Depart from Bianba County, visit Samucuo and Sapu Sacred Mountain, go to Nagqu City via Burang County, and visit Dodoka Skull Wall and Nagqu Grassland on the way. DAY10: Depart from Nagqu, visit Co'e, Phuntsok, Bamucuo, and finally arrive at Dangxiong, visiting the Holy Elephant Gate on the way. DAY11: Head from Dangxiong to Lhasa, pass Yangbajing, and finally arrive in Lhasa to end the trip. -------------------- Travel list: 👕 **Clothing preparation**: Jackets and thick coats are essential. The weather is still cold in February, so hats, scarves, and gloves are also essential. Sports shoes should be comfortable and non-slip, and you should also bring rain gear in case of possible rainy days. 🎒 **Carry-on Backpack**: The backpack is practical and can be used to carry snacks, water bottles and personal belongings for easy access while walking. 📲 **Electronic devices**: mobile phone, power bank, charging cable, and camera. Don’t forget to bring a selfie stick to capture the beautiful moments! 💳 **Documents and Finances**: Mainland China ID card, student ID card, driver's license, as well as cash and bank cards. You need to prepare all of these when you go out. 💊 **Common medicines**: cold medicine, gastrointestinal medicine, motion sickness medicine and Band-Aids, in case of emergency to ensure a safe journey. 🕶️ **Sun protection and skin care**: The ultraviolet rays on the plateau are strong, so you must bring sunscreen and sunglasses. There are also lip balms and moisturizing creams to keep your skin hydrated. -------------------- The delicious food in Chengdu, the red houses in Seda, and the scenery in Bacheng will surely make you linger on this journey. Look forward to your next trip!

Great winter travel destinations! 11-day tour of Chengdu, Seda, and Baqing. Enjoy the snow and experience Tibetan culture. This guide has everything you need! Save it now! -- 🏞️ Route overview: DAY 1–2: Depart and arrive in Chengdu. Pass through Wenchuan and Maerkang, and finally arrive in Guanyinqiao Town or Maerkang to rest. DAY 3: Head to Seda from Guanyinqiao Town and explore the charm of Seda County. DAY 4: Leave Seda County and visit Kasa Lake, King Gesar's Palace, and Yulong Lhatso (Xinlu Lake), and finally arrive in Dege. DAY 5: In Dege, visit Dege Parkhang Printing House, visit a typical village from the early days of Tibet's liberation, and pay homage to Qiangbalin Temple, then head to Chamdo. DAY 6–7: Leave Chamdo, pass through Leiwuqi and Zizhu Mountain (Zizhu Temple), and arrive in Dingqing, then continue to Wara Temple and the Three-color Lake, and finally arrive in Banbar County. DAY 8–10: Depart from Banbar County, visit Samco Lake and Mount Sapukonglagabo, then head to Biru County, Dodoka Skull Wall, and Nagqu Grassland, and finally arrive in Nagqu City, then continue to the Gate of Heaven of the Holy Elephant and Damxung. DAY 11: Leave Damxung, pass through Yangbajing, and finally arrive in Lhasa. -- Must-visit attractions: 🏔️ Namtso Lake: One of the three holy lakes in Tibet. The lake is clear and reflects the snow-capped mountains, like a fairyland. 🔴 Seda County: The dense red monk houses form a spectacular scene, as if the whole city is covered in a red coat. 🕍 Zizhu Temple: This ancient Bon temple is not only a center of faith, but also carries profound cultural and historical significance. -- Travel essentials: 👕 Clothing: Bring a warm coat, scarf, and gloves. Be prepared for the temperature difference between Chengdu and Baqing. 🎒 Backpack: Bring a backpack for easy travel. Pack your personal items and snacks. 📸 Photography equipment: Don't forget your camera and phone. The beautiful scenery of Seda is perfect for photos. 💳 Documents and money: Bring your ID card and cash. Safety is the top priority during your trip. 💊 Medicine: Bring some common medicines to help you cope with altitude sickness. 🕶️ Sun protection accessories: Sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen. The sun is strong in Baqing, so be sure to protect yourself. 🥤 Food and drink: Bring a water bottle and snacks so you won't be hungry or thirsty on the road. That's all! Get ready and go! Chengdu, Seda, and Baqing are waiting for you! -- The leisure of Chengdu, the mystery of Seda, and the magnificence of Baqing. The scenery and stories along the way will make you linger and make the trip worthwhile!

Chengdu, Seda, and Baqing: An 11-day tour guide is here! Experience the simple Tibetan style and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way. It is definitely worth your time! -------- 🚗Route suggestion: Explore the Western Sichuan Plateau and Tibetan Style🏔️ Day 1-2: Arrive in Chengdu and set off for Guanyinqiao Town/Maerkang. Enjoy the scenery of Wenchuan and Maerkang along the way and feel the magnificence of the Western Sichuan Plateau. Day 3: Depart from Guanyinqiao and head to Seda. Visit the mysterious Seda Buddhist College and admire the stunning red houses. Day 4: Depart from Seda County and visit Kasa Lake and King Gesar's Palace. Explore the natural beauty of Xinlu Lake (Yulong Lhatso) and finally arrive in Dege. Day 5-6: A pilgrimage to Dege Printing House. Travel through villages from the early days of Tibet's liberation and feel the vicissitudes of history. Visit Qambaling Monastery and arrive in Qamdo. Then head to Dingqing and visit the mysterious Zizhu Mountain (Zizhu Monastery) along the way. Day 7-8: Depart from Dingqing and visit Wara Monastery and the Three-color Lake. Stop at Banbar County and then head to the mysterious Sam Co Lake and Mount Sapukonglagabo. Day 9-10: Travel across the Nagqu Grassland and feel the vastness of the Northern Tibet Plateau. Pass by the Dodoka Skull Wall and reflect on the cycle of life. Finally, arrive at the sacred Elephant Gate and Damxung. Day 11: Depart from Damxung, pass by Yangbajing, and finally arrive in Lhasa. End this soul-stirring plateau journey.🙏 -------- Notes: 🚗 Airport transportation: You can take Metro Line 10 from Chengdu Shuangliu Airport to the city center, and then transfer to Line 3 to Chunxi Road. ❄️ February climate: Seda and Baqing are located on the plateau, and the temperature in February is low. Be sure to bring warm clothes. 🎉 Customs: When visiting the holy land of Seda, please respect local religious customs, dress appropriately, and avoid taking photos at will. 📶 Signal issues: The signal in Baqing may be unstable. It is recommended to bring a China Telecom SIM card, which has a relatively good signal. 💊 Health preparation: Altitude sickness is a common problem. Prepare Rhodiola and other medicines in advance and drink plenty of water. 🌞 Sun protection: The ultraviolet rays on the plateau are strong. Prepare sunscreen to protect your skin from damage. -------- Travel around Chengdu, Seda, and Baqing. Every moment is an unforgettable memory. Looking forward to the next trip!🌟

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

Self-driving tour along the Sichuan-Tibet North-South Line (11) "The First Gelug Monastery in Eastern Tibet" - Qambaling Monastery Ganzi, Sichuan - Qamdo, Tibet 2024.9.10 Qamdo weather is cloudy, temperature is 9-26 degrees, today's highest altitude is 4253 meters, National Highway 317. Continue west along G317, it's another long journey. At 8 o'clock, the car arrived at the Jinsha River, the Sichuan-Tibet border river (Figure 1). The west side of the bridge is Jiangda County, Qamdo City, Tibet. Gangtuo Village on the river bank was the first village that the 18th Army of the People's Liberation Army entered and liberated Tibet (Figure 2). It is not uncommon to see herds of cattle and sheep strolling leisurely on the Sichuan-Tibet Highway. Today, I encountered a group of macaques on National Highway 317 in the Jiangda Nature Reserve. A large family of more than a hundred people, young and old, came in groups (Figure 3), and all the vehicles stopped to give way. Two monkeys even jumped onto our hood. One of them looked like the monkey king (Figure 4), showing off his authority as the "master" and repeatedly peeking into the car. Our honking was ineffective. After more than a minute, they left in disappointment when they saw that they could not receive any "bribe". Today's total journey is more than 320 kilometers, and it is still National Highway 317, but the road conditions are quite different. After entering the Tibet section, the number of "craters" increased significantly, making it difficult to increase speed. On the way, we passed through the first tunnel in eastern Tibet - Aila Mountain Tunnel (3774 meters above sea level), and crossed the Xuejila Mountain Pass (4253 meters above sea level). There were long uphill and long downhill roads, with an absolute height difference of more than 500 meters. It took a lot of time to go up and down and through twists and turns. We finally arrived in Qamdo at 3:30 pm and then visited the Jampa Ling Monastery. Jampa Ling Monastery (3A), known as the "First Gelug Monastery in Eastern Tibet", is located at the confluence of the Angqu and Zhaqu rivers in Qamdo City. It is located at the foot of the majestic Hengduan Mountains and stands on the red soil layer cut by ancient glaciers. The temple was founded by Tsongkhapa's disciple Xirab Songbu in 1444 AD. The main Buddha in the temple is Jampa (Great Compassion) Buddha, so the temple is named Jampa Ling Temple. The temple does not charge admission and the main halls are open to the public. I tried to find a tour guide but failed. When we entered, the temple was almost closed and there were very few tourists. We moved freely through various halls, such as the main hall - the Great Sutra Hall (center), the Dharma Protector Hall (right), and the Tara Hall (left) located on the north side of the Jampa Ling Monastery Square (Figure 5). On the upper floor of the Great Sutra Hall, we saw the exquisite "mandala" (Figure 6). In the Zankang Hall (Figure 7), we saw monks chanting sutras and about to have dinner (not convenient for photography), as well as the Tsokchen Hall (Figure 8), Gaden Tangchen Phodrang (Figure 9), etc. We will stay in Qamdo City (3270 meters above sea level) tonight and head to Dingqing, another county in Qamdo, tomorrow.

Located in Chengguan Town, Karuo District, Qamdo City, Tibet Autonomous Region, Jampa Ling Monastery is a Gelugpa monastery of Tibetan Buddhism and the largest monastery in Qamdo. It is known as the "No. 1 Zen Monastery in Eastern Tibet". The temple was founded by Tsongkhapa's disciple Xirab Songbu in 1444 AD and was named after the Maitreya Buddha, Jampa Lin, which is dedicated to it. The main buildings of Qambaling Monastery are well preserved, and there are hundreds of statues of various Buddhas and eminent monks in the scripture hall. The Buddhist statues in the temples include Sakyamuni, Guanyin Bodhisattva, Manjushri Bodhisattva, Samantabhadra Bodhisattva and many other Bodhisattvas. Murals and thangka images are also very common. Each Buddha statue has its own unique appearance and hand seal, and through the careful painting of the painter, the characteristics and symbolic meanings of different Buddha statues in Buddhist teachings are accurately conveyed. Thousands of square meters of murals and numerous thangkas represent the highest level in the Qamdo area. Jampa Ling Monastery has its own complete system of reincarnation of living Buddhas. Every year from the 25th to the 29th day of the second month of the Tibetan calendar, the temple holds a three-day "Guqing Divine Dance", which is well-known in Tibet for its ferocious and lifelike masks, neat and elegant movements and grand scenes. Jampa Ling Monastery was established by Tsongkhapa's disciple Xirab Sangpo in 1437 AD. It took 8 years to complete and was completed in 1444. It has a history of nearly 600 years. Its creation has a specific historical background and legend. In 1373, when Tsongkhapa and his disciples passed through Qamdo, they predicted that a temple could be built here to spread Buddhism. Later, his disciple Maijiangsen Xiraosangbu decided to build a temple here in 1437. When the temple was built, a believer donated a statue of Qamba Buddha. Xirao Sangbu believed it was a good omen and named the temple Qambalin Temple. Historically, Jampa Ling Monastery was large in scale and had many buildings. It is mainly composed of the Jampa Buddha Hall (Maitreya Hall), Gaden Deqing Phodrang (Pabhala's Sleeping Palace), Coqen Hall, Debate Hall, Printing House, Tara Hall, Mandala Hall, nine zacangs and eight auspicious pagodas, covering an area of ​​114,500 square meters. In the course of historical development, Jampa Ling Monastery has had close relations with the central government. In 1719, the sixth Pabala was canonized as Hutuktu. After the founding of the Qing Dynasty, the court bestowed titles and seals on many great living Buddhas in Qamdo. Pabala of Qamdo's Jampa Ling Monastery, together with the four great living Buddhas, Chayaqiechang Luoden Xirao, Leiwuqipachu, and Basu Dashajilong, were called the "Four Hutuktus of Kham". Jampa Ling Monastery has gone through many ups and downs and has suffered damage. For example, in 1612, the chieftain Baili sent a large army to attack the temple, burning, killing and looting. During the tenth Pabala period, when Zhao Erfeng was reforming the Tibetan government in the Sichuan-Tibet region, the soldiers also caused a lot of damage to the temple. However, with the support of the country and the endorsement of the people, it has been continuously restored and developed. Today, it has become a national key cultural relic protection unit and an important religious and cultural site and tourist attraction in eastern Tibet. Jampa Ling Monastery is one of the important tourist attractions in Qamdo, where visitors can enjoy exquisite Buddhist art and spectacular architecture. The temple is open to the public free of charge and the recommended visiting time is 1-3 hours.

The city of Qamdo is divided into several areas by Zhaqu, Angqu and Lancang River. There is only one attraction worth visiting in the city: [Qiangba Ling Monastery], so I finally chose to live near the Tea Horse Square, so that the distance to walk in the morning is less than 1 kilometer. Ken had a hard time driving, so I went for a walk alone in the morning. The buildings in the city are also densely packed and give off an oppressive feeling (Figure 2). It may seem like a short distance, but you have to climb a hill. Once you climb a hill, your heart rate goes up and you have to slow down. On the way, we passed the first police station in Tibet: Zhongxinba Police Station (Figure 3). Near the entrance of Qambaling Monastery, many local people waiting for the bus were sitting on the roadside flower beds (Figure 4). There are shops on both sides of the temple entrance. What is more attractive than the shops are the banners above. Education on loving the Party must be internalized into the mind, heart and soul. When I walked to the main entrance (Figure 5) and wanted to take a picture of the door without people and cars, I found that it was almost impossible because there was so much traffic. As I walked through the gate, the circular floor plan diagram (Figure 8) on the left-hand wall caught my eye. Due to limited time in the morning, I quickly took pictures of the three large buildings facing the Balin Temple Square: Xiangbalakang, Jikuo Lakang and Gelong Zhacang (Figure 9). To the left of these three buildings is Deqiu Dratsang. In the lobby on the first floor of the building, many people are kowtowing towards the direction of the Tsokchen Hall opposite. A red slogan was hung above Deqiu Dratsang: Become a monk but do not forget to love your country; practice Buddhism but do not forget to help the world. To the right of the three buildings is the Tsokchen Hall (Figure 10), from which can be heard the sounds of many lamas chanting. As soon as you enter the gate, you can see lamas constantly coming out of the Cochin Hall carrying buckets, in groups of three or four, chatting and laughing (Figure 11). Once they find tourists taking pictures of them, their expressions immediately become serious. The sound of chanting was so loud that I couldn't help but walk in to take a look. I estimated that there were at least 14 or 15 vertical rows from left to right in the entire hall, with about 20 to 30 lamas sitting in each row, but I didn't count them specifically. There is a lama sitting in each vertical row near the entrance. People who come in to worship will give 10 yuan, 20 yuan or 50 yuan to the lama sitting in the front row, and the lama will write something on paper. I stood against the wall, hoping to be considered invisible, secretly recorded a short video, and quickly slipped away. Walking out of the Tsokchen Hall, the walls of the surrounding buildings are littered with shoes taken off by the lamas. Just as I was about to take a picture of a pair of shoes, a thin lama came from the left with very light steps (Figure 15). I wanted to continue strolling, but Ken called and I had to rush back to the hotel to pack my things because I had to go to see the sky temple - [Zizhu Temple] at an altitude of 4,500 meters this afternoon.

🌅 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.

|I never expected that the thousand-year-old peach tree in Qingduo Temple is so beautiful... I found this thousand-year-old peach tree in Bomi Qingduo Temple, whose full name is Qingduo Qiangbalin Temple. It is an ancient temple built in 1454. The temple's Sutra Hall is located under a large peach tree, with red walls and pink flowers blooming separately. It was drizzling when we went there, and petals were falling from time to time. At that moment, I just felt like I had traveled through time, and the beauty seemed unreal. Ancient peach blossom season: late March to early April Address: Qingduo Temple, Qingduo Town, Bomi County, Nyingchi, Tibet (drive straight into Taohuagou and use the navigation system). Tickets: Free It is recommended to play for 1-2 hours. Tips: Photography techniques You can use a large aperture lens to take pictures in combination with the eaves and walls of the temple. The gate of Bianjing Hall is a particularly striking place, and the peach tree there is very historical, and the flowers are particularly beautiful when they bloom. You have to queue up to take photos at the door~ This in-depth and niche peach blossom tour will allow you to stay in a hotel with an unparalleled view throughout the trip, allowing you to live in the scenery every day. When you open the window, you will see peach blossoms, snow-capped mountains, glaciers, lakes, green forests, pastures... Itinerary: D1: Pick up at Nyingchi Airport - Buddha Palm Sand Dunes - Suosong Village. D2: Suosong Village - Yusong Island - Sejila Mountain - Guxiang Lake - Bomi. D3: Bomi - Bomi Taohuagou (Qingduo Temple) - Tongmai Natural Barrier Lulang Alpine Pasture Coffee - Zhatang Lucuo - Nyingchi. D4: Nyingchi - Basongcuo boat trip to Laru Village - Lhasa. D5: Potala Palace - Jokhang Temple - Barkhor Street. D6: Lhasa - Yamdrok Lake - airport transfer. Itinerary: D1: Pick up at Linzhi Airport - Afternoon tea at Yusong Island - Suosong Village D2: Sosong Village - Namjagbarwa Base Camp Hike. D3: Suosong Village - Lulang Town - Alpine Ranch Cafe - Guxiang Lake. D4: Bomi - Blue Ice·Laigu Glacier-Blue Tears·Ranwu Lake. D5: Bomi - Bomi Taohuagou - the century-old temple Qingduo Temple. D6: Drop off at Linzhi Airport.

Qamdo Qambarling Monastery - Leiwuqi - Zizhu Monastery - Dingqing County (3700 meters above sea level) Introduction to Qambarling Monastery: Qamdo Qambarling Monastery is located under the Hengduan Mountains, standing on the red soil layer cut by ancient glaciers. The temple was founded in 1444 by Tsongkhapa's disciple Xirab Songbu. The main Buddha in the temple is Jampa (Great Compassion) Buddha, so the temple was named Qamdo Jampa Ling. Introduction to Zizhu Temple: Zizhu Temple is located on Zizhu Mountain, a famous sacred mountain in Dingqing County, Qamdo City, eastern Tibet. It is about 4,800 meters above sea level. It is one of the highest temples in Tibet and one of the oldest and most important temples of Bon religion. The construction of Zizhu Monastery was started three thousand years ago, advocated by the second Tibetan king, Muchi Zamp, and founded and passed down by the great master, the first Mubang Sadong. After I got home, I saw the news that Zizu Temple would be closed due to a celebrity live-streaming a sky burial. I don’t know if it’s true or not. Day 6 Kangqingla Pass - Baiga Township, Buxi County (3900 meters above sea level) The hotel in Baiga Township is in poor condition. What’s interesting is that at 4 o’clock in the morning, two bears broke into the village and swaggered on the road. We saw them clearly from the second floor of the hotel and jokingly said that Big Bear and Little Bear had entered the village! The seventh day, Sapu Sacred Mountain - Nagqu City (4500 meters above sea level) For example, the skull wall is the least worthwhile attraction. The ticket price is 76 yuan, and the visiting area is less than ten square meters. The skulls on the wall are not scary. The sky burial platform is separated by red lines and is not allowed to be visited. There is also a temple. It is said that Princess Wencheng once stayed in the temple on the way to Lhasa, which is also not open to tourists. It took less than ten minutes to complete the whole tour, and I didn't gain any insights into life. The only impression I had was that there was a public toilet inside, which didn't have any unpleasant smells and was relatively clean. Nagqu City is at a high altitude, so we stayed in an aerobic hotel with average conditions, so I don’t recommend it.

Jampa Ling Monastery is located at the confluence of the Angqu River and the Zhaqu River in Qamdo City, the capital of the Qamdo region of Tibet. The monastery was founded in 1444 by Xirab Sangpo, a disciple of Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug sect. The main Buddha enshrined in the temple is Jampa (Great Compassion) Buddha, so it is named Jampa Ling Temple. Whether you believe in Buddhism or not, visiting temples is a very important project when traveling to Tibet. Perhaps the scale of the buildings, the quality of construction and the level of luxury cannot be compared with the famous temples of the Han nationality. But I believe that everyone who comes here can feel the power of faith and its purity, which is impossible to feel in the current Han areas. If you have enough time, it would be even better to watch a debate. Debating is actually a study discussion in school. Although I couldn’t understand it at all, it was quite interesting to see the lamas’ expressions. Of course, anyone can participate if they wish before they officially begin the debate. #travelinchina #tibet #temple #monastery #tibetanbuddhism #gelugpa #lama #debate #architecture #changdu #religiousculture #religion