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Visit the Sky Burial Platform to witness Tibetan Buddhist burial traditions, explore the nearby monastery, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Tibetan Plateau, and observe local customs and rituals.
The Seda Sky Burial Platform is located in northeastern Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, at an average altitude of over 4,000 meters. Near a small white pagoda, on a relatively flat, gentle slope mid-mountain, a flat area the size of a basketball court is partially enclosed by iron railings. This is where sky burials take place. A nearby area is cordoned off with poles for family members to observe. This is the only sky burial platform open to the public, and burials generally take place between 1:00 and 3:00 p.m.
After their meal, the vultures take to the sky, a ritual believed by Tibetans to signify the deceased's successful ascension to heaven. After death, the body is kept for several days, with lamas chanting sutras and choosing a date for burial. The sky burial master then strips the corpse of its clothes and dismembers it according to a specific procedure, separating the flesh from the bones. Finally, a whistle is used to call the vultures, who are then fed the bones, then the flesh.
Recommended viewing time: about 1 hour
free
13:00-16:00
The Sky Burial Platform is an important spiritual site in Tibetan Buddhism, where deceased bodies are offered to vultures in accordance with ancient Tibetan traditions. It is a reflection of the Tibetan people's belief in the impermanence of life.
Located in Seda County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan. The easiest way to reach it is by driving from the nearby town of Seda or from the city of Chengdu (about 10-12 hours by car). Local taxis or tour groups may offer transportation to the site.
The Sky Burial Platform is accessible year-round. The best times to visit are during the summer months (June to September) when the weather is milder and the area is less prone to snowstorms.
There is no specific entrance fee for the Sky Burial Platform itself. However, visitors typically join a tour or may need to pay small fees for access to nearby monasteries or services. Tickets for tours can be purchased in person at local agencies.
Booking in advance is recommended for tours or if you wish to visit during the high season. Booking at least a few days ahead ensures availability, especially for group tours.
Exploring the site itself can take 1-2 hours. However, a visit to the surrounding area, including nearby monasteries and scenic viewpoints, may take 3-4 hours or more.
The main highlight is the Sky Burial Platform itself, where you can observe the ancient Tibetan ritual. Nearby monasteries and the view of the vast plateau also offer an immersive experience of Tibetan culture.
Guided tours are available, often in Chinese or Tibetan, though some guides may speak basic English. It's best to arrange a tour with a local guide who can explain the spiritual significance of the burial practices.
Photographers should capture the Sky Burial Platform from a distance to respect the sacred rituals. The surrounding Tibetan plateau offers incredible panoramic views, ideal for landscape photography.
Start by visiting the Sky Burial Platform, then explore the nearby monasteries for a deeper understanding of Tibetan culture. Take time to enjoy the natural beauty of the plateau and capture some photos.
Night visits or light shows are not available at this location. The site is mostly visited during the daytime for the experience of the burial rituals and to explore the monasteries.
The site can be crowded during the peak tourist season (June to September). The least crowded times to visit are during the off-season months, such as November to March.
Basic facilities are available, including toilets, small food vendors, and water. However, services are minimal compared to more developed tourist sites. It's best to bring your own food and water, especially if visiting during off-peak times.
The site itself is located on the Tibetan plateau, with rugged terrain that may be challenging for elderly, children, or disabled visitors. Accessible pathways are limited, so caution is advised when planning your visit.
Cash is the preferred method of payment at the site and in nearby areas. Credit cards or mobile payments are not commonly accepted in this remote region, so it's recommended to bring sufficient cash.
There are no restaurants directly at the Sky Burial Platform, but nearby Seda Town offers simple Tibetan eateries serving traditional food like noodles and yak meat.
Vegetarian options are available, though they may be limited. Vegan and halal food may be harder to find in the area, so it's best to inquire locally or bring your own supplies if needed.
Basic accommodations are available in Seda Town, including guesthouses and budget hotels. For more comfortable lodging, visitors may need to stay in larger towns like Ganzi or Chengdu, with travel to Seda by bus or car.
Nearby attractions include the Seda Monastery, one of the largest Tibetan monasteries in the world. Visitors can also explore the Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture and nearby scenic areas, such as the Mount Gongga region.
Souvenir shops in Seda Town sell traditional Tibetan handicrafts, such as prayer flags, Tibetan jewelry, and yak wool items. Local textiles and religious artifacts are also popular souvenirs.
After visiting the Sky Burial Platform, the best transportation options are buses or taxis back to Seda Town or further south to Chengdu. For a more immersive experience, consider joining a guided tour that includes other attractions in the region.
