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Ruoergai is rich in water and grass, producing high-quality beef and mutton. It is also rich in Chinese herbal medicines such as astragalus, cordyceps, and dark purple fritillaria. Tibetan and Qiang handicrafts, with their unique ethnic characteristics, are exquisitely crafted and highly valued.
Yaks growing in high-altitude areas have always been raised semi-wild. In Tibetan pastures, they can also consume precious Chinese herbal medicines such as Cordyceps and Fritillaria, which makes the nutritional value of yak meat extremely high.
Tibetan knives are essential and practical items in Tibetan life, renowned for their fine craftsmanship and ornate patterns. They make excellent gifts for friends and family, or for personal collection. However, Tibetan knives cannot be taken on planes or trains. It's recommended to choose a store that guarantees return shipping. Self-driving travelers can also easily bring them back, but other modes of transportation can be quite uncertain, so be sure to research them before purchasing.
In the market of Ruoergai, you can see some handicrafts made by Tibetans themselves, including earrings, pendants, cigarette cases and other accessories. Buying some of these handicrafts can help local Tibetans increase their income. Handmade accessories are also more flavorful than assembly line products.
The Ruoergai Tibetan area produces Cordyceps sinensis, Astragalus membranaceus, Fritillaria cirrhosa, Saussurea involucrata, etc. The most distinctive Cordyceps sinensis is a precious Chinese herbal supplement.