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The Buru Skull Walls are located in Buru County. There are three of them: the Dodoka Sky Burial Platform at Damur Monastery (Dharma Temple), the smaller (partially destroyed) Dodoka Sky Burial Platform at Ridan Monastery, and the nearby Quedai Temple Sky Burial Platform (also destroyed). Of these, the Dodoka Sky Burial Platform at Damur Monastery (Dharma Temple) in Dachaqu Township is the largest and most famous. Therefore, the Buru Skull Walls mentioned here specifically refer to the Dodoka Sky Burial Platform. It is a miracle among Tibetan sky burials. In other sky burials, the entire body, including the hair, is eaten by vultures, allowing the soul to ascend to heaven and escape suffering.
Plateau mountain climate; suitable for all seasons
Sky Burial Platform: 1 hour
10 yuan
All day
The Skeleton Wall is a unique and enigmatic site in Tibet’s Nagqu Prefecture, known for its mysterious historical background. The site is often linked to local myths and legends, with some believing it marks the location of ancient Tibetan rituals or battles. It is a significant cultural and archaeological site for those interested in Tibetan history and folklore.
The Skeleton Wall is located in the remote Nagqu Prefecture of Tibet. Due to its secluded location, reaching the site usually requires a combination of long-distance travel to Lhasa followed by a local taxi or private vehicle to the site. The nearest major town is Nagqu, and visitors often hire a car or guide for the trip.
The Skeleton Wall is outdoors and can be visited at any time of day. The best time to visit is during the summer months (May to September) when the weather is more temperate. Early morning and late afternoon provide the best lighting for photography.
There is no official entrance fee for visiting the Skeleton Wall, as it is a natural and cultural landmark. However, there may be small charges for local guides or vehicle hire, and some cultural sites nearby may have their own entrance fees.
No tickets are required for visiting the Skeleton Wall itself, but it is advisable to arrange for local transport and a guide in advance, especially if traveling during peak tourist season. Booking 1-2 weeks ahead is recommended.
Visiting the Skeleton Wall itself can take around 1-2 hours, depending on how much time you spend taking photos and exploring the surrounding area. If you’re also exploring the local folklore and nearby cultural sites, it could take up to half a day.
Local guided tours are available and typically offered in Mandarin and Tibetan. English-speaking guides may be available, but it’s best to book them in advance through local tour operators or your hotel in Lhasa.
The best photography spots are from a distance to capture the entirety of the Skeleton Wall against the backdrop of the Tibetan landscape. Sunrise and sunset provide the best lighting for dramatic photos of the wall and surrounding scenery.
Visitors should start by walking up to the Skeleton Wall for a closer inspection. From there, take a moment to observe the wall and its surrounding area. Afterward, you can explore the nearby natural landmarks and take in the panoramic views of the Tibetan Plateau.
Night visits or light shows are not available at the Skeleton Wall, as it is an outdoor natural site. Special tours may be available during certain times of the year for those interested in the cultural and historical aspects of the site.
The Skeleton Wall is located in a remote area, so it is typically not crowded. The least crowded times are during weekdays and early mornings, especially outside of peak tourist seasons (May to September).
There are no major facilities at the Skeleton Wall site itself, as it is a natural landmark. However, basic amenities like restrooms, food, and water can be found in nearby towns like Nagqu. It’s advisable to bring your own water and snacks for the journey.
The Skeleton Wall is located in a remote, rugged area, and access can be challenging. It may not be suitable for elderly or disabled visitors without assistance, as the terrain can be difficult to navigate. Children can visit with supervision but should be prepared for outdoor conditions.
Cash is preferred in the surrounding areas as mobile payments and credit card facilities may not be widely available in remote locations. It’s advisable to bring enough cash with you for transport, guides, and small purchases.
There are no restaurants or cafes at the Skeleton Wall. The nearest options can be found in Nagqu, where you can find local Tibetan eateries serving traditional dishes like momo (dumplings) and yak meat.
Vegetarian food options are available in nearby towns, particularly in Tibetan cuisine, which includes dishes like barley bread, tsampa, and vegetable stews. Halal food may be limited, but there are a few establishments in Tibet that cater to Muslim visitors.
There are no hotels near the Skeleton Wall itself, but you can find accommodation in Nagqu, such as basic guesthouses or local hotels. For more comfortable stays, Harbin or Lhasa offer a wider range of options.
There are no souvenir shops directly at the Skeleton Wall. However, local shops in Nagqu or Lhasa offer traditional Tibetan handicrafts such as thangkas, Tibetan jewelry, and woolen garments.
