Your First Trip to Zhiduo County, Yushu Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture: A Complete Guide 🧳✨
Hey travel lovers! 👋 Are you ready for an adventure in the heart of Tibet? I recently visited Zhiduo County, Yushu Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, and it was absolutely breathtaking! Here's your ultimate guide to make the most of your first trip. Let's go! 🚀
Day 1: Discovering Jegu Temple 🏰
Start your journey by flying into Yushu Batang Airport, which is just an hour and a half from Chengdu. From there, take a taxi to Jegu Temple, located on the east side of Jiegu Town, Yushu City. It's about a half-hour ride.
📍Address: East Jiegu Mountain, Jiegu Town, Yushu City, Qinghai Province
Jegu Temple is perched on a hillside, with stunning architecture and a rich history. Visit the main hall, "Duwen Sangzhou Jiacuo," which houses over 3,400 bronze and wooden Buddha statues. The atmosphere is incredibly spiritual and historical. 🙏
📸Photo Tip: Don't miss the side windows of the main hall for some Instagram-worthy shots!
For lunch, try local Tibetan cuisine like hand-grabbed mutton and tsampa at nearby restaurants. After lunch, explore the lecture hall, Dazhao Hall, and Mile Hall. Climb to the top of the hill around 3:30 PM for panoramic views and starry skies. 🌌
🏨Where to Stay: Check into Gesar Palace Hotel for a comfortable stay. It's well-equipped and a great place to acclimatize.
Day 2: Meeting the Source of the Yangtze River 🌊
Drive about two hours from Yushu City to Zhiduo County, the core area of the Yangtze River's source. Continue towards Qumalai County for another 3.5 hours to reach the Chumar River.
📍Address: Along G109 (Beijing-Lhasa Highway)
"Chumar" means "red river" in Tibetan, and its waters shimmer in vibrant hues of red. It's a sight to behold, especially during June to August when it serves as a major habitat and migration route for Tibetan antelopes. 🐐
In the afternoon, head to the heart of the Hoh Xil Nature Reserve, part of the Yangtze River Source Nature Reserve. Witness unique landscapes like dried-up valleys and wind-deposited dunes, some reaching up to 50 meters high!
🏨Where to Stay: Return to Yushu City and stay at Yushu Folk Hotel for a taste of local decor and clean rooms at an affordable price.
Day 3: Marveling at Mani Stone Piles and Princess Wencheng Temple 🏰
Start your day with a two and a half-hour drive to Xinzhai Mani Stone Pile. These stones, inscribed with Buddhist images or scriptures, create a serene atmosphere perfect for meditation and photos.
📍Address: Near Zhiduo County
After lunch, head to Princess Wencheng Temple, about an hour and a half away. Nestled in Benagou, the temple is surrounded by towering mountains and a serene river. Inside, you'll find a statue of Vairocana Buddha and a pair of lions with a lotus pedestal that dispenses clear spring water—a sight that has flowed for 1,300 years!
🙏Temple Etiquette: Remember to remove your hat and shoes before entering the main hall.
Travel Tips: 💡
- Altitude Sickness: Prepare for altitude sickness with medication and stay hydrated.
- Dress Code: Bring comfortable hiking shoes, windproof jackets, and sunscreen. Layers are key as temperatures fluctuate.
- Food: Enjoy local Tibetan cuisine, but bring your own snacks if you prefer lighter meals.
- Transportation: Driving is the most convenient option. Make sure your vehicle is in good condition.
That's a wrap on your Zhiduo County adventure! 🎉 Remember to respect local customs and enjoy every moment of this magical land. Safe travels! 🛫🌄
Feel free to adapt this itinerary to suit your preferences. Happy exploring, and don't forget to share your adventures with us! 📸✨
