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At Mummy Cave, visitors can explore ancient burial sites, examine well-preserved mummies, and appreciate the cave's historical significance. The cave's dark, mysterious atmosphere is perfect for photography. Guided tours allow visitors to learn about the fascinating archaeological discoveries in the area.
Walk down the stairs to reach the Mummy Cave. It can still be a bit scary when there are few people. In the mysterious corpse cave, there are caves within caves, divided into three cave halls. If you want to see the corpses, you have to climb in along the wooden ladder at the entrance of the cave.
The Zada Earth Forest is a highlight along the southern Ali route, and any visit here is inseparable from the Guge Kingdom. The ruins of the Guge Kingdom, an ancient plateau city, are located on a dirt hill beside the Xiangquan River in the Zadafei Zhabulang District of Ali. The Guge Dynasty, once a splendid civilization spanning 700 years, has seen its demise, a mystery to this day. The Mummy Cave, not far from the Guge ruins, holds the final clue to solving this mystery.
Suitable for all seasons;
The plateau has a semi-arid monsoon climate, with a short, cool warm season and a long, cold cold season. The four seasons are distinct, with little precipitation. There is more night rain in the summer half of the year, and the rainfall is unevenly distributed.
It is recommended to play for 1-3 hours;
Nearby attractions: ruins of the capital of the Guge Dynasty, etc.
free
Open all day
Mummy Cave is an archaeological site known for its well-preserved mummies. These mummies date back thousands of years and offer valuable insight into ancient burial practices. The site has significant cultural and historical importance for the region, shedding light on ancient Tibetan civilizations.
The Mummy Cave is located in Tibet, near Alibaba, which is accessible by taxi or private car. Public transportation is not readily available directly to the site, so it is recommended to rent a car or book a guided tour for easier access.
The cave is typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is milder and the region is less crowded. It is advisable to visit during weekdays for a more peaceful experience.
The entrance fee to Mummy Cave is approximately 40-60 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, but it’s best to inquire about online options, especially for group bookings or special tours.
While tickets are not always required in advance, booking is recommended, especially during peak seasons (spring and autumn). Booking 1-2 days in advance is usually sufficient for individual visits.
Exploring the Mummy Cave typically takes 1-2 hours. This allows enough time for the guided tour, photography, and understanding the historical significance of the mummies and artifacts inside the cave.
The key highlights of the cave are the mummies themselves, preserved in their ancient burial positions. The surrounding rock formations and ancient artifacts are also fascinating. A close look at the cave's layout and the burial chambers is a must for understanding its historical importance.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, with some English-speaking guides during peak tourist seasons. Audio guides may also be available in Mandarin and English, offering detailed descriptions of the site's significance and history.
The best photography spots include the central burial chamber, where the mummies are displayed, and the cave entrance, which offers a dramatic view of the surrounding area. The lighting inside the cave creates an atmospheric effect ideal for photos.
Start by entering the cave and exploring the burial chambers. Take time to view the mummies and the accompanying artifacts. A guided tour typically follows a set route, explaining each section’s significance before heading out through the cave's exit.
Night visits and light shows are not available at the Mummy Cave. Special tours may be offered during certain times of the year, such as during archaeological events or cultural festivals. It is recommended to check availability in advance for these types of tours.
The cave can get crowded during holidays or peak tourist seasons. For a more peaceful experience, visit early in the morning on weekdays during the off-season, such as late autumn or winter, when fewer tourists visit the site.
Basic facilities such as toilets, water stations, and small rest areas are available near the entrance. There are no large restaurants or cafes inside the cave, so it’s advisable to bring snacks and water. Souvenir shops may sell local handicrafts and memorabilia.
The site is somewhat accessible for elderly and children, but the terrain can be challenging due to the cave's natural conditions. Those with mobility issues should check with local tour guides for accessibility options or alternatives to visit the site.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are more commonly used in Tibet. It’s advisable to carry cash, especially for smaller transactions or if mobile payment options are unavailable in certain areas.
There are few restaurants directly near the Mummy Cave, but Alibaba and surrounding areas in Tibet offer small local eateries. Most options serve Tibetan cuisine, including dishes like momos (dumplings) and yak meat. It’s advisable to have a meal before heading to the cave.
Vegetarian options are available in local restaurants, especially Tibetan vegetable dishes. Vegan and halal food options may be limited, so it’s recommended to confirm in advance or seek alternatives in nearby towns.
There are no hotels directly near the Mummy Cave. However, accommodations are available in Alibaba and nearby towns. Ranging from budget hostels to mid-range hotels, options are generally small and modest due to the rural nature of the area.
Nearby attractions include the Tashilhunpo Monastery, which is an important cultural site, and the Yarlung Tsangpo River. Combining visits to these landmarks with a trip to Mummy Cave makes for an enriching day trip exploring Tibetan culture and natural beauty.
There are souvenir shops near the Mummy Cave, offering local handicrafts such as Tibetan jewelry, prayer beads, and traditional textiles. These make for popular souvenirs, along with small artifacts related to the cave’s history.
After visiting the Mummy Cave, you can travel to other Tibetan landmarks by taxi or rented car. Public transport options are limited in rural areas, so a private vehicle is the most convenient way to continue your trip. Taxis can take you to nearby towns for onward travel.
