2025 Baiyu Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in March)

### **I. Must-Visit Attractions** 1. **Larung Gar Buddhist Academy** - **Highlights**: The world's largest Tibetan Buddhist institute, with thousands of red monastic houses covering the valley. Witness the awe-inspiring scenes of monks practicing their faith. Recommended to capture panoramic views at dawn or dusk and experience the power of belief. - **Tips**: Registration is required at the entrance. Overnight stays are prohibited. Respect the monks' privacy and avoid taking photos without permission. 2. **Sky Burial Platform** - **Features**: A traditional Tibetan burial site. Experience the philosophy of life, death, and the cycle of nature. Maintain a solemn demeanor. Photography and loud noises are prohibited. 3. **Tagong Grassland and Tagong Monastery** - **Nature and Culture Combined**: Vast grasslands with picturesque reflections of snow-capped mountains. Tagong Monastery is an important Sakya sect temple of Tibetan Buddhism, its golden roof shimmering against the backdrop of Mount Yala. 4. **Yachen Monastery** - **Holy Place of Practice**: Known for its community of nuns (female practitioners). Buildings are constructed along the river. Experience religious activities such as circumambulation and listening to scriptures. 5. **Cuopugou and Cuopu Monastery** - **Natural Sanctuary**: A tapestry of snow-capped mountains, lakes, and forests. The area around Cuopu Monastery offers pristine and tranquil scenery, ideal for hiking and photography. --- ### **II. Itinerary Suggestions** **Classic 5-Day In-Depth Tour** - **Day 1**: Depart from Chengdu → Seda County (acclimatize to the altitude) → Evening stroll through the Buddhist Academy, capturing photos of the red houses at sunset. - **Day 2**: Morning classes at Larung Gar Buddhist Academy → Circumambulation at the Mandala → Visit Zhalang Monastery → Tibetan dining experience. - **Day 3**: Sky Burial Platform → Tagong Grassland → Tagong Monastery → Return to Seda. - **Day 4**: Yachen Monastery → Golden Horse River Valley → Tibetan song and dance performance. - **Day 5**: Hiking in Cuopugou → Return trip. **Compact 3-Day Tour** - **Day 1**: Larung Gar Buddhist Academy → Sky Burial Platform → Check in to a Tibetan guesthouse. - **Day 2**: Mandala → Cuopugou → Huo'er Monastery. - **Day 3**: Tagong Grassland → Return trip. **Recommended Self-Drive Route** - **Route**: Chengdu → Wenchuan → Ma'erkang → Seda → Danba → Luding → Chengdu (approx. 1,367 km). Combine with attractions like Daocheng Yading and Xinduqiao along the way. - **Tips**: Road conditions on the plateau are complex. SUVs are recommended, and carry snow chains. Gas stations are readily available, and 97-octane gasoline is easy to find. --- ### **III. Transportation** 1. **External Transportation** - **Chengdu → Seda**: - **Bus**: Direct buses from Chengdu West Bus Station to Seda (approx. 14–16 hrs, fare approx. CNY 60). - **Self-drive**: Approx. 10–12 hrs via National Highway 317. Scenic but requires cautious driving. - **Flight**: Fly to Kangding Airport, then transfer to a bus (approx. 6 hrs). 2. **Internal Transportation** - **Within the Buddhist Academy**: Walk or take the scenic shuttle bus (self-drive is permitted in some areas). - **Chartered car/carpooling**: Suitable for groups, offering flexible travel to surrounding attractions. Daily cost approx. CNY 300–500. --- ### **IV. Accommodation Recommendations** - **Near the Buddhist Academy**: Larong Hotel or Tibetan homestays (basic conditions, price CNY 50–150/bed), suitable for an immersive religious experience. - **Seda County**: Seda County Guesthouse, youth hostels (budget-friendly, CNY 100–300/night), with better facilities. - **High-end options**: Boutique guesthouses in Tagong Grassland or Danba Tibetan Village (approx. CNY 500–1,000/night), offering both comfort and local characteristics. --- ### **V. Practical Tips** 1. **Altitude Acclimatization**: Seda has an average altitude of 4,000m. Prepare Rhodiola and oxygen tanks in advance. Avoid strenuous activity on the first day. 2. **Climate and Clothing**: Large temperature difference between day and night. Bring a windbreaker in summer and down jackets in winter. Strong UV radiation, sunglasses and sunscreen are essential. 3. **Cultural Etiquette**: - Circumambulate clockwise. Do not touch Buddha statues or scriptures. - Photography is prohibited during sky burial ceremonies. Maintain silence. 4. **Dining Suggestions**: Try tsampa, butter tea, and yak meat. Restaurants in the county town mainly serve Sichuan cuisine, while vegetarian food is prevalent within the Buddhist Academy. 5. **Environmental Protection and Safety**: Do not litter. Be aware of falling rocks and black ice when driving. It is recommended to participate in outdoor activities with companions. --- ### **VI. Best Time to Travel** - **May–October**: Mild climate, lush grasslands, suitable for hiking and photography. - **Winter (November–April)**: Fewer tourists, experience the snow-covered Buddhist Academy, but be prepared for cold weather.

Yaqing Monastery is located in Changtuo Village, Achazhen, Baiyu County, Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, China. It is a must-see attraction on the Ganbai Line, 120 km from the county seat and about 4,000 meters above sea level. It is a temple with a profound historical background and unique Tibetan culture. Yaqing Monastery is one of the most important monasteries of the Nyingma (Red) sect of Tibetan Buddhism in China. Yaqing Monastery is located by the mountains and water and is known as the "Buddhist Kingdom on Water." The temple is surrounded by green grass and clear lakes, and the blue sky and ancient temples form a unique landscape painting. Yaqing Monastery is famous for its tranquil atmosphere of spiritual practice. Here, believers live a simple and fulfilling life, chanting, practicing, and reciting mantras on time every day, constantly purifying their minds. Special features 1. Nunnery: There is a special area in Yaqing Monastery called the Nunnery, where all the monks are female and are called nuns. The river is the boundary, and the west bank is the female area, where men are not allowed to enter. It is said that there are more than 20,000 nuns in Yaqing Monastery, making it the largest nunnery in the world and a pure land for female practitioners. The buildings on the island are mainly simple huts built by the nuns themselves with planks, cloth, plastic sheeting, etc., and are called "matchboxes." 2. Religious festivals and dharma assemblies: The annual religious festivals and dharma assemblies are a highlight of Yaqing Monastery, attracting many believers and tourists to participate. Tourist information: 1. Yaqing Monastery is not a tourist attraction, so there is no entrance fee or parking fee. 2. The hill where Guru Rinpoche is located is the best place for photography and offers a bird's eye view of Yaqing Monastery. 3. Drones and video shooting are prohibited. 4. Navigate directly to Yaqing Monastery. It takes about 2 hours from Baiyu County to Yaqing Monastery. You can visit and then stay in Ganzi, or you can stay in the nearby Achazhen, but the altitude is around 4,000 meters, so it is easy to get altitude sickness.

Baiyu County | Faith and life, Baiyu Temple and the village are integrated into one Baiyu County is located in a narrow canyon, and the houses on the hillside of the county are what people call "Baiyu Temple." I took the driveway to Baiyu Temple, which was a bit far. When I went down the mountain, I found that there were steps in the county that could be used to get up closer and faster. In my opinion, temples are all similar, and I have seen many along the way, with tall golden Buddha statues, intricate carvings, and beautiful patterns. But what touched me about Baiyu Temple is that the temple here is integrated with Tibetan dwellings, with no clear boundaries. Unlike Han Buddhism, where square walls enclose several Buddha halls. I went deep into the narrow alleys (the last few pictures), and the road was very bad! Only one person can walk, and it is uneven. In some places, you need to bend down and drill down. Some people's "gate" is on the edge of the cliff. When I walked over, it was dark, and I was afraid of slipping, so I squatted down and moved over little by little. Thinking about it carefully, I was shocked. This is actually a "village"! It is the "home" of many people. On the way down the mountain, I met elementary school students wearing red scarves after school. I asked, "Besides monks, there are ordinary people living here, right? Do they all live together?" They said, "Yes." On their way home from school, two little girls saw the Mani stone pile and piously put their heads against the stone and muttered something.

On the vast land of Western Sichuan, countless treasures are hidden, and Gatuo Temple is like a pearl hidden in the snow-capped mountains and sea of clouds, quietly exuding its unique light. When the car drives along the winding National Highway 215 from Batang to Baiyu County, the scenery outside the window gradually changes from open meadows to towering snow-capped mountains and deep and quiet canyons. This unknown journey is destined to be extraordinary. Originally, I was going to stay in Baiyu County for one night, but I decided to go to Gatuo Temple temporarily. As the altitude rises to 4,800 meters, the thin air is filled with a sacred atmosphere, and a magnificent and shocking pure land of Buddhism suddenly appears in front of you - this is Gatuo Temple, which has been baptized by wind and rain for 900 years! In this remote mountain, the construction of such a large-scale temple is beyond imagination. The halls made of stones and the golden roofs and red walls shine in the sunlight, and the solemn feeling hits the soul directly. Compared with the famous Potala Palace, Gatuo Temple has fewer tourists and more tranquility. Most of the people I met were locals who came to offer incense with prayer wheels and chanting scriptures. Their pious faces and firm steps were full of simple beliefs in the incense. Here, the restless heart unconsciously calms down, as if time has slowed down. 📌Practical information: 📍Detailed address: Doni Mountain, Bailonggou, Hepo District, Baiyu County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province 🚗Transportation: Self-driving is the most convenient. It takes about an hour to drive from Baiyu County. The road conditions are generally stable, but the mountain road near the temple has many curves, so be sure to drive carefully and put safety first.

🍁 While many people know Seda, few have heard of Yaqing Monastery. It is further away and less well-known than Seda, and is a sacred place for the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism. Yaqing Monastery is divided by a river into two areas: Zhaba (for male monks) and Jiumu (for female monks). The Jiumu area is surrounded by water on three sides, and is also called Jiumu Island. It is the place where the most female monks in the world practice together, and is also known as the "Kingdom of Daughters" in Tibet. 🍁 In the center of Jiumu Island, each Jiumu has built their own red house out of wood, which is called a place of practice. Looking out from the hillside, the unique red houses surrounded by mountains are a sight to behold. 🍁 Yaqing Monastery is famous for its tranquil atmosphere. Here, believers live a simple and fulfilling life, chanting, practicing, and reciting mantras on time every day, constantly purifying their minds.

🌟 Yaqing Wujin Zen Forest, also known as Yaqing Temple, is located in Achang Township, Changtai District, Baiyu County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province. It is like a hidden pearl in the depths of the western Sichuan Plateau, a mysterious hidden Buddhist kingdom. 😎 Unlike the Seda Wuming Buddhist College, which is built on a mountain, most of the practitioners' houses in Yaqing Temple are built around the river, which is unique. 🎈 📖 The Kingdom of Women in Journey to the West is a place that many people yearn for, where there are only women and no men. In China, there is a real "Kingdom of Women," which is Yaqing Temple in Sichuan. Unlike traditional temples, Yaqing Temple is called the Kingdom of Women because among the more than 20,000 monks and nuns who live here, the majority are female monks, making it the place with the largest number of female monks in the world! They live collectively on the island, while the few male monks live on the other side of the river. 🤩 🌈 Every corner of Yaqing Temple is a great place for photography! From the magnificent temple buildings to the daily devout practice of the monks, from the magnificent natural scenery to the unique and profound Tibetan culture, it is worth staying here for a few days to savor. The best shooting spot is at the Buddha statue in picture 6, which is the highest point and offers a breathtaking view of the entire Yaqing! 😍 🎈 Attraction: Yaqing Temple 📍 Location: Near County Road 037, Baiyu County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province 💡 Tips: 1. Yaqing Temple is located at a high altitude, about 4,000 meters, so be sure to take precautions against altitude sickness, such as bringing an oxygen tank and taking appropriate breaks during your visit. ⛰️ 2. When visiting the temple, respect the local religious beliefs and customs, do not touch the Buddha statues, and do not disturb the monks' practice. 🙏 3. We went to Yaqing from National Highway G215, where there are few places to stay and eat, so we went straight to Ganzi County after visiting Yaqing in the afternoon, which took about two hours to reach the county seat. 🚗 Come to Yaqing Temple and experience this unique mystery! 💕

⭐️ Yaqing Wujin Zen Forest, or Yaqing Temple, is located in Achang Township, Changtai District, Baiyu County, Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province. It is a hidden Buddhist kingdom deep in the western Sichuan Plateau. Unlike the Larung Gar Buddhist Academy in Seda, which is built on a mountain, most of the houses of practitioners in Yaqing Temple are built around a river. - ⭐️ In Journey to the West, there is a Kingdom of Women that many people yearn for. There is not a single man in the kingdom, only women. However, there is a real "Kingdom of Women" in China, which is Yaqing Temple in Sichuan. Unlike traditional temples, Yaqing Temple is called the Kingdom of Women because most of the more than 20,000 monks and nuns living there are women. It is the place with the largest number of female monks in the world. They live together on an island, while the few male monks live on the other side of the river. - ⭐️ Every corner of Yaqing Temple is a great place for photography. From the magnificent architecture of the temple to the daily practice of the monks, from the spectacular natural scenery to the unique Tibetan culture, it is worth spending a few days here. The best place to take photos is the Buddha statue in Picture 6, which is the highest point and offers a panoramic view of Yaqing Temple. - ▫️Attraction: Yaqing Temple 📍Location: Near County Road 037, Baiyu County, Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province - 💡Tips 1. Yaqing Temple is located at a high altitude, about 4,000 meters above sea level. Please be sure to take precautions against altitude sickness, such as carrying an oxygen tank and taking proper rest. 2. When visiting the temple, please respect the local religious beliefs and customs, and do not touch the Buddha statues or disturb the monks' practice. 3. We went to Yaqing Temple from National Highway G215. There are few places to stay and eat there, so we went to Ganzi County after visiting Yaqing Temple in the afternoon. It took about two hours to get to Ganzi County.

🌟Are you tired of the hustle and bustle of the city and longing for a spiritual baptism? Hidden among the mountains in western Sichuan, there is a little-known Buddhist holy place - Baiyu Gaden Monastery. This place is not only a home for faith, but also a paradise for photography enthusiasts. Follow my footsteps to uncover the mystery of this red Buddhist country and experience a unique journey. 🚗Heading west, encountering the red miracle🚗Starting from Chengdu, along the winding mountain road, our goal is the red miracle located on the top of the mountain - the White Jade Gaden Monastery. The scenery along the way is like a flowing painting, which makes people feel relaxed and happy. As the altitude increases, the air becomes fresher and the soul seems to be purified. 🏰The ocean of red houses, the power of faith 🏰When you stand in front of Gaden Monastery, you will be shocked by the large complex of dazzling red buildings in front of you. These red houses are not only the residences of monks, but also a symbol of faith. In this red ocean, you can feel the power of faith and your soul will find unprecedented peace. 📚Shiming Buddhist College, the Hall of Wisdom📚In addition to the temple, there is also the famous Shiming Buddhist College here. Here, you can learn about the rich disciplines from the "Five Sciences" to the "Ten Sciences", from Buddhism, medicine to technology, each of which is an exploration of wisdom. If you are interested in Buddhist culture, this is undoubtedly a treasure trove of knowledge for you. 🍲Food and accommodation are indispensable. In Baiyu County, you can taste authentic Tibetan delicacies such as butter tea, highland barley wine and yak jerky, each bite of which is an ultimate temptation to the taste buds. As for accommodation, choosing a cost-effective inn will allow you to experience the local customs and enjoy a comfortable resting environment. 🧳Travel tips to make your journey more perfect🧳 • Due to the high altitude, please remember to bring warm clothes to prevent altitude sickness. • Before taking photos inside a temple, it is best to obtain the monks’ permission as a sign of respect. • If you are a photography enthusiast, remember to bring your camera, the sunrise and sunset here are definitely worth recording. • Finally, don’t forget to bring an adventurous heart, because every place here is full of surprises. 🌄If you have enough time, you might as well choose to take a trip around western Sichuan during a holiday. Starting from Chengdu, passing through Bipenggou, Ma'erkang, and then to Kasa Lake and Ganzi, each stop has different scenery waiting for you to discover. Finally, don’t miss Derge Sutra Printing House and Kathok Monastery, which will be the perfect end to your trip. 🌈Conclusion🌈Baiyu Gaden Monastery, a red miracle hidden in the mountains of western Sichuan, is waiting for you to explore. Here, you can feel the power of faith, experience the inheritance of wisdom, and enjoy the temptation of delicious food. This is not only a journey, but also a baptism of the soul. So pack your bags and get ready to go! 🏔️🌄🍃

Yaqing Monastery is located in Baiyu County and is a must-see attraction along Route 317. It is a sacred place for Nyingma practice and is currently the place with the most female practitioners (known as "nuns") in the world. The river divides the area, with female monks living on the island and male monks living outside the island. 📍Address: Navigate directly to Yaqing Monastery. It is located between Baiyu County and Ganzi County, about 2 hours from Baiyu County to Yaqing Monastery. You can stay in Baiyu County the night before and go to Ganzi or Seda for accommodation after visiting. 💰Ticket: No ticket or parking fee required ⏳Duration: About 1.5 hours 🍽Dining: Vegetarian only 🗓Itinerary: Important❗️The first thing you will see when you enter the scenic area is the golden pagoda. After passing the pagoda, there is a fork in the road. There is a small parking lot on the right where you can park. If there is no space, drive up the slope on the right fork and park along the roadside. After parking, walk up the slope to the best viewing platform, the Padmasambhava Buddha statue. Most of the photo spots are here. After taking photos, you can drive along the road on the left side of the fork (County Road 037) and look around. You don't need to get out of the car. 📝Tips: Men are not allowed to enter the nuns' living area. There are usually signs at the entrance.

🏔️There is a hidden secret place on the Batang-Litang section of Route 318, Cuopu Valley, which is a combination of flower sea, snow-capped mountains, strange rocks, grasslands, forests, temples, and lakes. It is a seriously underrated attraction. 🌟Recommended attractions: 👉Rekeng Hot Spring🧼, a 90° sulfur hot spring, steaming hot, feels super fairy-like🧚! You can also try hot spring corn and eggs😋! 👉Cuopu Lake🌊, drive to the parking lot by the lake, walk along the boardwalk, and you will see a huge lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains and forests. Sit here and enjoy the beauty of nature🌳! 👉Kangzhula Lake & Zhima Yong Lake, these two lakes are so amazing😍! The turquoise lake is super clear, sparkling in the sun✨, like a shining sapphire, and you can see many fish🐟. The two lakes are very close, just a few minutes' walk🚶! 👉Cuopu Temple, a Nyingma temple of Tibetan Buddhism built at the end of the valley🛕, with a history of more than 700 years, facing the holy lake, very beautiful🤩! 👉Zhangde Grassland, an endless wetland grassland, with various wildflowers blooming🌼, beautiful😍! 💰Scenic area ticket: CNY 138/person, CNY 88/person for those over 60 years old, self-driving, free tickets for Jinhua, Taizhou, and Hangzhou in Zhejiang 😎Here comes the travel route👇! 🗓Itinerary: D1: Chengdu🚗Kangding🎈Mugecuo🎈Yuzixi🎈Xinduqiao D2: Xinduqiao🚗Yajiang🎈Litang🎈 D3: Litang🎈Genie🎈Cuopu Valley D4: Cuopu Valley🎈Baiyu🎈 D5: Baiyu🎈Yaqing Temple🎈Seda D6: Seda🎈Maerkang🎈Guer Valley D7: Guer Valley🎈Bipeng Valley🎈Chengdu 📝Notes: 1. The ultraviolet rays are strong on the plateau, and the climate changes quickly, so be sure to protect yourself from the sun and keep warm🧢! 2. The altitude of Cuopu Valley is about 4,000 meters, so don't forget to prevent altitude sickness🎈! 3. If you have enough physical strength, walk along the boardwalk around the lake for a deep tour, it's great👍! 4. Open at 7:30 am, stop entering the park at 4:00 pm, plan your time⏰! 5. There is nothing to eat in the scenic area, bring your own water and food🥪! 6. Don't enter the non-boardwalk area in Kangzhula Lake, be careful not to get lost 🚶!

|||This National Day, in order to avoid congestion, I drove on National Highway 317. After passing Wengda Town, most of them. Not only Seda, there is also a Shiming Buddhist College in Western Sichuan❗|||This National Day, in order to avoid congestion, I drove on National Highway 317, After passing Wengda Town, most of the vehicles turned to Seda! Only we went west all the way to explore the hidden Shiming Buddhist College in Western Sichuan! Yes, you read it right, Seda is Wuming Buddhist College, And the one we went to is Shiming Buddhist College! Master Padmasambhava has blessed it thirteen times, If you don't see it with your own eyes, you can hardly believe its grandeur and magnificence, Countless magnificent buildings, rare designs, constitute this, Vicissitudes, heavy, exquisite, miraculous snowy Buddhist world! 🟠Temple: Gado Temple 📍Location: Doni Mountain, Bailonggou, Baiyu County, Ganzi, Sichuan 🏔️Altitude: 4800 meters 🚘Self-driving: The road conditions are very good, and cars can reach 🎫Tickets: Free🆓 🅿️Parking: Free🆓 ✅✅✅Related knowledge: 1️⃣Gado Temple is located in the deep mountains of the mountainside of Duonien Mountain, Bailonggou, Hebo District, Baiyu County, in the Jinsha River Basin in the western part of Sichuan Province, with an altitude of 4800 meters, separated from Tibet by a mountain. The scale is very large and shocking! 2️⃣ Gado Temple, there is a unique building in the temple-Gado Vajra Seat Zhongyin Wenwu Hundred Zun Altar City (see liberation), it is one of the five golden platforms of the world's second Vajra Seat Gado Temple, and it is considered to be the incarnation of Vajra Hand Bodhisattva. So far, it has been reincarnated 19 times. This world is honored as the "Father of Gado". 3️⃣ Seda is Wuming Buddhist College, and here is Shiming Buddhist College. As for why Gado Temple is called Shiming Buddhist College, you will know when you come. 4️⃣The autumn scenery along the mountain road of Gado Temple is exceptionally beautiful. Although the altitude is high, the colorful forest and shrubs, meadows, colorful and dazzling, don't miss it!

Western Sichuan is always full of surprises. Although Baba Lake is not as well-known as the Milk Lake in Daocheng, its beauty is even more breathtaking. The blue of Baba Lake is pure Klein blue, which is unforgettable for its clarity and purity. The towering ancient trees and steep peaks around the lake complement each other, forming a beautiful picture🖼️ Baba Lake is located in the southwest of Baiyu County, in the Huolonggou Nature Reserve surrounded by mountains. As it is located deep in the reserve, it is rarely visited by people, and is little known outside of the local area. - 📍Baba Lake 🧭Navigation: Gaiyu Town, Baiyu County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province (First navigate to Gaiyu Town, enter from the left checkpoint, and continue along the gravel road for about 15 minutes.) 🚦Transportation: Only suitable for 4WD, SUV or off-road vehicles, sedans are not recommended. 🎫Admission: Free ✅Activities: The lake is calm, suitable for kayaking, but life jackets must be provided! Or you can have a picnic by the lake. - ❗Tips: 1⃣️Some sections of the road are rugged, it is recommended to drive a 4WD off-road vehicle. 2⃣️The environment is in its original natural state, the signal is not good, you need to bring your own food and download offline maps in advance. 3⃣️If conditions permit, you can have a simple meal by the lake, but please take your trash with you, there is no dedicated cleaner here. 4⃣️Please note that the signal may be interfered with when flying a drone, and it is easy to lose control. 5⃣️It is recommended to go at noon, when the lake reflects the sunlight, the shooting effect is better.

On that lofty and mysterious land stands a sacred and solemn temple - Ganden Monastery. Like a dazzling pearl, it is embedded on the vast plateau, radiating endless light and charm. Ganden Monastery is located between majestic mountains and rivers, surrounded by rolling snow-capped mountains and vast grasslands. When the sun shines on the golden roof of the temple, it shines with dazzling light, as if it is a sacred light given by heaven. The magnificent building, with its unique style and exquisite craftsmanship, shows the profound heritage and solemnity of Tibetan Buddhism. Stepping into Ganden Monastery, a solemn and solemn breath comes to your face. In the temple, the smoke is curling, the scriptures are fluttering, and the crisp bell sounds echo in the wind. Exquisite murals, gorgeous thangkas, and solemn and solemn Buddha statues all tell the long history and profound religious culture. Here, every detail contains the power of faith, which deeply shocks and baptizes people's souls. The monks are dressed in red robes and are busy in the temple. Their chanting sounds like the sound of nature, echoing in the air, making people feel a kind of tranquility and peace beyond the world. They inherit the wisdom of Buddhism with a devout heart and bring endless blessings and hope to this land. Ganden Monastery is not only a religious holy place, but also a living history book. It has witnessed the vicissitudes of the years and carries the faith and dreams of countless people. Here, history and reality are intertwined, faith and hope coexist, and people feel an eternal power. Whether it is a person with a deep faith in religion or a tourist who is curious about history and culture, Ganden Monastery is a sacred place not to be missed. With its unique charm, it attracts people to come to worship and explore, allowing people to find inner peace and strength on this sacred land.

||| There are many temples in Western Sichuan. The 6️⃣ most worthwhile temples to visit in Western Sichuan! ||| There are many temples in Western Sichuan, each with its own unique architecture and location. This article lists the temples that I think are the most worthwhile to visit. Whether it is the human history of the temple itself, the exquisite and detailed architecture, or the beautiful surrounding environment, they are all very interesting. . 1️⃣ Gemo Temple A temple with two Guinness records (China's largest connected Buddha hall building, China's tallest Maitreya Buddha statue), the entire temple is indescribable in its brilliance and magnificence. No photos are allowed inside, but those who have been there know how jaw-dropping it is. There is even a museum in the temple, with an elevator. 📍 Tangmai Village, Gemu Township, Aba County, Aba Prefecture 💰 No tickets required . 2️⃣ Dege Sutra-Printing House (Gengqing Temple) The Tibetan woodblock printing technique of the Dege Sutra-Printing House is the only traditional technique in the entire Tibetan area that is well preserved and still in use today, and it has been lost in other areas. Each character here carries and continues the heavy past in Chinese historical culture. It can be said that it is not only a treasure of Tibetan culture and art, but also a treasure of Chinese and even world culture. When you see tens of thousands of sutra-printing blocks with your own eyes, you will know how spectacular it is! 📍 Bagong Street, Gengqing Town, Dege County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture 💰 50/person ⚠️ Cameras are not allowed inside, you can store them at the door (the picture is officially taken) . 3️⃣ Gato Temple (Shiming Buddhist College) The temple is nestled in the valley, separated from Tibet by only one mountain. It is huge, magnificent, and spectacular. The altitude of around 4800 makes it like another world, coupled with the exquisite and detailed design, it is unrealistically beautiful. 📍 Doni Mountain, Bailonggou, Baiyu County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture 💰 No tickets required . 4️⃣ Seda Wuming Buddhist College A huge Buddhist college composed of small red houses stands at an altitude of nearly 4,000 meters, providing a place for monks to retreat and practice. Whether it is overlooking from the viewing platform or walking in it, every inch of eye-catching red is shocking. 📍 Luoruo Town, Seda County, 20 kilometers away from the county seat 💰 To enter the Buddhist College, you need to make an appointment with your ID card at the Jinma Grassland Distribution Center one day in advance, 48/person. Or book the official one-day tour itinerary, starting from 168. . 5️⃣ Langyi Temple Langyi Temple is built on the mountain, and the undulating mountains are at the foot. When the summer grassland is full of green and vibrant, it is even more unique. There are plank roads and viewing platforms here, and you don't need equipment such as drones and SLRs. The naked eye can capture the most beautiful angle. The sunrise is particularly beautiful, and if you have time, you must arrange it on the itinerary. 📍 Guoerwa Mountain Top, Aba County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture 💰 No tickets required . 6️⃣ Muya Temple Located in Tagong Grassland, under Yala Snow Mountain, whether in Tubo history or in the "Gesar Epic", it occupies a very important position. For friends who want to take pictures of snow-capped mountains and temples in the same frame, this place is very suitable for playing. You can also visit the nearby Jiagulong Village by the way. If you live in the village, you can get up early to watch the sunrise the next day. 📍 Tagong Town, Kangding City, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture 💰 No tickets required

#lake For this pure sapphire sea, we drove thousands of miles to Babagou Lansong Lake in western Sichuan. This secret Blue Lake is hidden in Baiyu County, Ganzi. The lake is blue, pure and quiet, like a dream trip. As I got closer to the lake, I realized how real and beautiful the blue in the photo was. The tranquility here makes people forget their worries, and it is definitely a paradise for photography lovers. Driving there requires patience, especially on the bumpy roads, but it’s all worth it! Come to Babagou Lansong Lake and experience the "Thousand-mile Pursuit of Sapphire Haizi", which will make you forget to leave!

Just after leaving the house, I found a magnificent temple by the roadside... I checked the map and found out its name is Dongga Temple. Feeling inspired, I decided to go up the mountain. The scenery at the top is really beautiful, with a vast sky and clouds, offering an unobstructed view. The temple exudes a sense of understated luxury from the outside to the inside, with various statues of deities inside... There were also lamas chanting scriptures with great concentration. Although it has been around for 500 years, compared to the bustling F Academy, it feels a bit obscure... even a bit desolate... But I quite like it here, with its peaceful and serene atmosphere... The national road from Seda to Ganzi completely exceeded my expectations... No wonder some people call Route 317 the 'Road of Hell.' Not only is it at a high altitude, but it's also full of sharp, winding mountain roads with cliffs on one side and steep slopes on the other, making the drive heart-pounding... But the scenery is truly beautiful, offering an endless view at the peak... Snow-capped mountains, grasslands, lakes, surrounded by clouds and mist. I deeply regret not bringing my pocket camera to capture it all... The section from Ganzi to Dege was not favored by the weather, with some drizzling rain, so I couldn't capture the best state of Yulong Laco (Xinlu Lake) as I passed by... The rain got heavier and heavier, so instead of rushing, I decided to have a cup of roaming coffee ... Today's insights: * I didn't do enough research. After leaving Seda, I should have taken the Ganbai Road to see Yaqing Temple. I hesitated at the intersection but ultimately took Route 317, mainly considering the electric car's range... * The second hesitation today was at Zhashi Teling Temple, whether to take a detour to Cuotong Cui Lake. The guide said the road conditions were poor, and I was worried about tire damage from gravel and the low ground clearance... So I gave up, feeling a bit regretful... An off-road vehicle would have been better.

It is a series of rural folk culture activities held in Baiyu County, Ganzi Prefecture, Sichuan Province. This event not only showcases the splendid natural scenery and unique ethnic customs of Baiyu County but also displays its profound cultural heritage. The scene is bustling with excitement, featuring unique yak 'beauty' contests, thrilling horse races, highly challenging sky runs, as well as various traditional art performances, handicraft displays, and special agricultural product exhibitions. The aim is to comprehensively and multidimensionally present the folk characteristics and intangible cultural heritage of Baiyu County. This is not just an event, but a journey of the soul, a deep exploration of traditional culture...

Deep in the Garze Prefecture of Sichuan, there is a beautiful small town with towering snow-capped mountains, herds of cattle and horses, and pleasant scenery. It is the charming white jade with its God-given beauty. Facing the cool breeze, in the midsummer of July, I walked into the Changtai Ritong Grassland where a hundred flowers bloomed, and participated in the second Baiyu County "Shengde Baiyu·The Best in the Grassland" rural folk culture activity. Accompanied by the wonderful Tibetan singing and dancing performances, folk performances, Hada team, singing and dancing teams from various towns and villages, and horse team parades, the event opened brilliantly. The opening ceremony of Baiyu County's second "Shengde Baiyu·The Best in the Grassland" rural folk culture event showed the splendid culture and beautiful grassland scenery of Baiyu in three scenes: "The Beauty of Intangible Cultural Heritage" and "Praise of the Grassland". Baiyu County, under the holy snow-capped mountains, brings together grasslands, lakes, forests, snow-capped mountains, glaciers, villages... it is quiet and beautiful. The Jinsha River is like a jade belt, running through the four provinces of Qinghai, Sichuan, Tibet and Yunnan, and white jade is the bright pearl on this jade belt, dazzling and shining. The beauty of the earth, the charm of Kham, the source of heaven and earth. Walk into the golden sands and forests and meet Shengde White Jade.

A very remote but impressive temple complex opposite a budhist university. Take 2 days to reach the place by car.

Blue sky and white clouds reflect Yaqing, True practice and true realization in the path of yoga. The tower and prayer flags flutter in the wind, Red walls and golden tiles reveal the true scriptures. The first time I came to Yaqing Monastery was more than 20 years ago. I have visited Yaqing Monastery many times, and each time there have been new and earth-shaking changes. I haven't been to Yaqing Monastery for seven years, and now it looks like a small town, with a new look replacing the old. Written by Layman Ren Jun on 2024.7.6 at Yaqing Monastery

It's always worth going to a place that makes you fall in love at first sight For this sapphire-like pure sea I drove thousands of miles to western Sichuan. - Babagou Blue Pine Lake A secret blue lake hidden deep in western Sichuan The blue, pure, quiet and dreamy scenery visible to the naked eye - Everyone thought the blue lake in the photo was fake Only when you go there will you know how beautiful it is... 📍Location｜Lansong Lake, Gaiyubaba Valley, Baiyu County, Ganzi 🚘Transportation｜Self-driving 🅿️Parking｜🆓 🧭Altitude｜3100m 🚙tips【Transportation strategy】 🔹Lansong Lake is located in Gaiyu Town, Baiyu County, about 800km from Chengdu, 90km from Baiyu County, and 100km from Batang County. 🔹Currently, you can only drive there by yourself. After reaching the Huolonggou Bridge sign, turn onto the mountain road and drive for more than ten kilometers to reach the destination. There are signposts along the way. 🔹The road about 3km from the end point is difficult to walk on, and an SUV is required. Cars cannot reach it. Four-wheel drive vehicles can drive to the lake, and two-wheel drive vehicles with good driving skills are also acceptable. It is recommended to stop not far from the end point and walk forward 🔖tips【Practical information】 1⃣️Lansong Lake is located in a mountain valley at an altitude of about 3100m. It has dense vegetation, high oxygen content and no altitude sickness. 2⃣️If conditions permit, you must take aerial photos, but drone signals may interfere and cause aircraft explosions, so be careful 3⃣️The lake is bright from about 11:00 to 14:00, which is suitable for photography. It is recommended to drive from Baiyu or Batang in the morning. 4⃣️You can bring a kayak/paddle board to play in the water, but be sure to wear a life jacket 5⃣️There is a Baba Village deep in Baba Valley, where you can see the "Heart of Yak" mountain. The road is very bad and can only be accessed by four-wheel drive SUVs 6⃣️Babagou is located deep in western Sichuan. It is recommended to arrange a one-week trip from Chengdu. It is perfect with the Genyen South Line. · 🙆‍♀️I am Fei Shishi who keeps moving and loves to share 📸I am keen on using the camera to record the beautiful scenery of the journey ❤️Follow me🤩 🙌Provide you with more travel tips for taking photos and checking in during your trip ·

Gatuo Monastery is located in Baiyu County on the Sichuan Western Line. Baiyu is a treasure trove, with temples such as Baiyu Monastery, Yaqing Monastery, and Gatuo Monastery, as well as local customs like tree burials and the 'primitive patriarchal tribe of mountain rocks.' I visited Yaqing many years ago, so I didn't go this time. Instead, I mainly visited Gatuo Monastery. Gatuo Monastery is one of the six major monasteries of the Nyingma school (Red Sect) of Tibetan Buddhism. It is one of the Ten Wisdom Buddhist Academies (Seda is one of the Five Wisdom Buddhist Academies). Located deep in the mountains, it takes about an hour and a half to drive from Baiyu County, with winding mountain roads all the way. Upon reaching the top, a vast expanse of red houses suddenly unfolds before your eyes—magnificent! Standing in front of it, you can feel the solemn and majestic atmosphere rushing towards you. The monastery's architecture is grand and magnificent, with exquisite murals and carvings, all showcasing a profound religious and cultural heritage🎨. Sunlight shines on the golden roof, radiating dazzling light, as if telling a thousand-year-old story🌟. The sound of chanting and bells echoing in the valley, mixed with the morning birdsong, is quite healing. 🎫: Free

A niche and romantic place called Jiagenba. Finally, in Western Sichuan, I found my dreamy love village, a little-known village far from the mundane world. Very few people know about it! There are forest lakes, small bridges over flowing water, and every frame here is like an oil painting. The scenery along the way is a photographer's paradise in my mind, and any casual shot is picture-perfect~ Don't miss out if you like it! Provincial Road 434 Jiagenba Western Sichuan Small Circuit Guide|||In early summer, the grass is green and flowers bloom in Western Sichuan, gradually entering one of the best tourist seasons. During the 3-day Dragon Boat Festival, enjoy snow-capped mountains🏔️, flower viewing, water activities, Provincial Road 434, Moxi Park, Jiagenba small circuit self-driving route guide: ☁️Day1. Ya'an—Kangding city area—turn to Provincial Road S434—Tagong Grassland—Moxi Park—Xinduqiao, stay in Xinduqiao. Depart early on the first day of the holiday, take the Yaye Expressway to Kangding, then turn onto S434 to avoid the traffic on Zheduo Mountain, and enjoy the trip. Provincial Road 434 is accompanied by snow-capped mountains, Mugecuo, Honghaizi, Kangding Airport Road, Qingrao Sacred Mountain, overlooking Yala Snow Mountain, Gongga Snow Mountain🏔️, take photos🤳 and check in. After passing Tagong Grassland, visit Moxi Park in the afternoon to see the peculiar plateau stone forest, ticket🎫: 60 yuan. Stay at a hotel in Xinduqiao at night. The whole journey is about 300 kilometers. ☁️Day2: Xinduqiao—Jiagenba (Tiwe Village, Duorang Village, Riche Village along the line)—stay in Riche Village. The journey is about 100 kilometers. In the evening, go to Zesangla Sky Garden to see Gongga. The flower season of Jiagenba may have just ended🔚, but the scenery along the way is still beautiful, with green lawns and big trees🌳, full of life, and roadside photos📷 are very photogenic. At the end of the road🛣️ in Riche Village, the small stream and purple azaleas🌺, along with the yaks🦬 leisurely grazing, are like a pastoral poem from a dream. If the weather is good, the Sky Garden is worth the rush! ☁️Day3: After breakfast, have a simple camping⛺️ by the creek in Riche Village, then return. Back to Chongqing city area, about 640 kilometers, 8 and a half hours. ‼️Tips: 1. Both Xinduqiao and Jiagenba are over 3000 meters above sea level, which may cause altitude sickness. 2. The temperature during the day can exceed 20 degrees, but at night it's only a few degrees, so while protecting yourself from the sun, pay attention⚠️ to keeping warm. 3. In early June, the flower season may have ended, but the full view of green still gives Jiagenba a pure beauty. 4. Zesangla Sky Garden opens on June 1st, SUVs can go up, 25 yuan/car🛻, or take the villagers' car for 260 yuan/car/round trip. For specific information, consult the inn.

Regret only to find out! The little secret Blue Lake in western Sichuan is so beautiful that it leaves you speechless. This little secret in western Sichuan is truly stunning! The blue of Blue Pine Lake is hidden in the quiet mountains. It is as gentle as a sapphire that fell from the sky. Everyone who has been to Blue Pine Lake will be overwhelmed by its beauty. The deep blue lake and the surrounding plateau karsts seem to cleanse one's soul. How to get there? Lansong Lake is located in Gaiyu Town, Baiyu County, about 100km away from Batang County. Currently, the only way to get there is by car. After reaching the Huolonggou Bridge sign, turn onto the mountain road and drive for more than ten kilometers to reach the destination. The road is about 3km from the end point and it is difficult to drive. It is recommended to stop and walk. Address: Lansong Lake, Gaiyubaba Valley, Baiyu County, Ganzi Transportation: Self-driving The road conditions are complicated, so it is recommended to drive an off-road vehicle or a four-wheel drive SUV. Small cars cannot go there. Blue Pine Lake Lansong Lake is located in a mountain valley at an altitude of about 3,100m. Dense vegetation, high oxygen content, no altitude sickness The lake can be photographed from a distance, but drone signals are susceptible to interference If the weather is good, the lake will be bright around 11:00-14:00, which is very suitable for taking photos. It is recommended to drive from Baiyu or Batang in the morning. You can kayak/paddle board here, be sure to wear a life jacket. Friends who like adventure, follow me to Blue Pine Lake to experience the blue charm.

This niche secret place in western Sichuan is really amazing! Lansong Lake 🌊A touch of blue gentleness hidden in the quiet mountains Like a sapphire falling from the sky Everyone who has been to "Blue Pine Lake" Everyone will be overwhelmed by its beauty The deep blue lake is reflected by the surrounding plateau karsts. It seems to cleanse one's soul · How to get there❓ Lansong Lake is located in Gaiyu Town, Baiyu County, about 100km away from Batang County. Currently, you can only get there by car. After reaching the Huolonggou Bridge sign, turn onto the mountain road and drive for more than ten kilometers to reach the destination. The road is about 3km from the end point and it is difficult to drive. It is recommended to stop and walk. · 📍Address: Lansong Lake, Gaiyubaba Valley, Baiyu County, Ganzi 🚗Transportation: Self-driving ⚠️The road conditions are complicated, it is recommended to drive an off-road vehicle or a four-wheel drive SUV, small cars cannot go there · 🌊Blue Pine Lake 💙Lansong Lake is about 3100m above sea level and is located in a ravine. Dense vegetation, high oxygen content, no altitude sickness 💙The lake can be photographed from a drone, but drone signals are susceptible to interference 💙If the weather is good, there will be light on the lake around 11:00-14:00 noon, which is very suitable for taking pictures📷It is recommended to drive from Baiyu or Batang in the morning 💙You can kayak/paddle board here, be sure to wear a life jacket · Friends who like adventure, follow me to the Blue Pine Lake to experience the blue charm✨

It is always worth going to a place that makes your heart beat faster at first sight. I drove thousands of miles to western Sichuan just for this lake as pure as a sapphire. - Babagou Blue Pine Lake A secret blue lake hidden deep in western Sichuan The blue, pure, quiet and dreamy scenery visible to the naked eye Everyone thought the blue lake in the photo was fake. Only when you go there will you know how beautiful it is… Location | Lansong Lake, Gaiyubaba Valley, Baiyu County, Ganzi Transportation | Self-driving Parking FREE Altitude|3100m [Transportation Guide] Lansong Lake is located in Gaiyu Town, Baiyu County, about 800km from Chengdu, 90km from Baiyu County, and 100km from Batang County. Currently, you can only drive there by yourself. After reaching the Huolonggou Bridge sign, turn onto the mountain road and drive for more than ten kilometers to reach the destination. There are signposts along the way. The road about 3km from the end point is difficult to walk on, and an SUV is required. Cars cannot reach the lake. Four-wheel drive vehicles can drive to the lake, and two-wheel drive vehicles with good driving skills are also acceptable. It is recommended to stop not far from the end point and walk forward [Practical Information Lansong Lake is located in a mountain valley at an altitude of about 3,100 meters. It has dense vegetation, high oxygen content, and no altitude sickness. 2. If conditions permit, you must take aerial photos, but drone signals may interfere with the aircraft and cause it to explode, so be careful 3. The lake is bright from 11:00 to 14:00, which is suitable for photography. It is recommended to drive from Baiyu or Batang in the morning. 4You can bring a kayak/paddle board to play in the water, but be sure to wear a life jacket 5. There is a Baba Village deep in Baba Valley, where you can see the "Heart of Yak" mountain. The road is very bad and can only be accessed by 4WD SUVs. 6 Babagou is located deep in western Sichuan. It is recommended to arrange a one-week trip from Chengdu. It is perfect to go there together with the Genyen South Line.

You must have heard of Batang! You must have heard of Dege! You must have heard of Gongjue in Tibet! But did you know To the north of Batang, to the south of Dege Across the Jinsha River from Gongjue There lies a beautiful small county town in Western Sichuan! Baiyu County This place is a must-pass on the 317 route into Tibet! But few people pay attention to it If you have time to stroll around here slowly You will definitely like this beautiful and tranquil small town! It seems that people here like to sleep in late! The shops on the street only slowly open their doors after the sun is well up in the sky! Groups of people sit on the street, chatting and drinking tea, slowly enjoying the day! If you're tired from walking, you can also find an authentic Tibetan restaurant To try some blood sausage and tsampa! I wonder if you like their taste as much as I do! 📸Photo taken: Mid-August 📷Photography suggestions: 🟠Baiyu is a great place to take photos of people and culture. If you have time, visit the Baiyu Temple on the mountain opposite the county town, and you're sure to find some pleasant surprises 🟡You can also rent a traditional Tibetan outfit and walk around the streets and alleys, you will definitely take some satisfying photos 📍Location: Sichuan, Garze, Baiyu 🚗Transportation: Navigate to Baiyu County ❗TIPS: ❤️It is highly recommended to visit Baiyu Temple, where you can see many butter sculptures! 🧡Travel civilly, do not litter! Along the way, you will see people littering, let's despise them together! Follow me for more travel, self-driving, photography practical guides

Whether you love traveling or not, you must have heard this sentence: “After Seda, there is no Seda anymore.” Speaking of Buddhist holy places, Seda is truly a "must visit in this lifetime" for countless people. This largest Buddhist college in the world is impressive because of its spreading red houses. Standing on the top of the mountain and looking down, it will surely shock your soul. But few people know that, 300 meters away from Sertar Lama Buddhist College, Kilometers away, there is a holy place for spiritual practice that is more primitive and shocking than Seda. It is Yachen Monastery. The only "daughter country" As the largest nunnery in China, Yachen Monastery has more than 20,000 monks and nuns. Women make up the majority of the temple, but there are men as well. The locals call the men here "Zaba" and the women "Jiumu".