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The Tomb of the Tibetan Kings, located in Zongshan, Qiongjie County, Shannan, Tibet, is a complex of mausoleums for successive Tibetan kings from the 7th to 9th centuries AD. It is the largest preserved royal mausoleum in Tibet. The entire mausoleum complex covers approximately 10,000 square meters and rises approximately 10 meters above the ground. A pair of stone lions guard the tombs. One lion is mutilated, while the other is relatively intact, save for a broken left leg. These lions reflect the burial system and burial practices of Tibet over 1,000 years ago. They are also of great value for studying the rise and fall of the Tibetan Dynasty and are designated a National Key Cultural Relic Protection Site.
Suitable for all seasons
It is recommended to play for 1-3 hours
40 yuan
9:00--18:00
The Tomb of the Tibetan King holds historical significance as the burial site of a prominent Tibetan ruler. It offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and history of Tibetan kings and their influence on the region's development. The tomb is part of the broader historical context of Tibetan dynastic rule.
The Tomb of the Tibetan King is located in Shannan Prefecture, Tibet. It is accessible by private car or taxi from Lhasa, which is around 1-2 hours away. There are no metro or bus routes directly to the site, so taxis or private transportation are recommended.
The tomb is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is in the early morning or late afternoon, particularly during the spring and autumn months when the weather is most pleasant.
The entrance fee for the Tomb of the Tibetan King is generally around 20-40 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, and there is no need for online booking for general visits. Special tours may require advanced reservations.
For a typical visit, advance booking is not required. However, for special guided tours or group visits, it is recommended to book tickets at least 1-2 days in advance.
You will need about 1-2 hours to fully explore the tomb, including time to admire the architecture, learn about the history, and take in the surrounding views.
Guided tours are available, typically in Mandarin, and sometimes in English, depending on the season. Audio guides may be offered in multiple languages, including English.
The best photography spots are around the tomb's perimeter, offering scenic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The main tomb chamber also offers a glimpse of the intricate design and art inside.
Begin your visit by exploring the outer grounds and admiring the architectural style. Then, head to the tomb chamber to appreciate the historical significance. Finish by walking around the temple grounds for stunning natural views.
Night visits and light shows are not available at the Tomb of the Tibetan King. The site is primarily a day-time attraction focused on history and cultural heritage.
The site can get crowded, especially on weekends and during Tibetan holidays. The least crowded times are in the early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays.
The tomb is generally accessible for elderly and children, although the terrain may be uneven. It may not be fully accessible for disabled visitors due to the site's traditional design.
Cash is preferred at the tomb, although some nearby shops may accept mobile payments such as WeChat Pay or Alipay. Credit cards are rarely accepted at the site itself.
There are no restaurants inside the tomb complex, but local Tibetan eateries can be found in nearby villages or towns, offering traditional meals such as momo, tsampa, and butter tea.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in nearby restaurants, with Tibetan cuisine offering many plant-based dishes. Halal food may be available in some of the local restaurants, but options are limited.
Yes, there are small souvenir shops near the tomb offering Tibetan spiritual items, including prayer beads, thangkas (Tibetan scroll paintings), and jewelry. You can also find traditional textiles and handicrafts.
