Live Your Best Lives
Longdengba Grassland is located in Longdeng Township, Daofu County, Garze Prefecture (3,500 meters above sea level). Its Tibetan name, "Gesartong," means "the grassland where King Gesar conquered." The grassland and surrounding mountains form a picture of the Eight Auspicious Treasures. The Zama River meanders through it like a hada, and the Yala and Gongga Snow Mountains provide distant protection, creating a sacred landscape of "sacred mountains, holy waters, and grasslands."
The grassland changes color 12 times every year with the change of seasons - the rape flowers are gilded in June, the wild flowers are like a sea of stars in July, the red grass is like fire in September, and the snow is covered with silver in winter. It is known as the "color-changing wallpaper of western Sichuan."
Peak period (June-August)
Flower Sea Feast: In July, the wildflower coverage rate exceeds 80%, and irises, geraniums, and meconopsis form a carpet, which is suitable for photography and camping.
Horse Racing Festival: In the seventh month of the lunar calendar, herders gather to perform horse racing, Tibetan opera, and Guozhuang dance. Monks from Rangu Temple also perform the epic drama of King Gesar (free to watch).
The climate is pleasant: the average daily temperature is 15-20℃, but it is rainy and foggy in the afternoon, so bring a jacket and waterproof shoes.
Shoulder season (September to early October)
The autumn colors change: the meadows are dyed in a gradient of gold and red, the morning frost reflects the rising sun like broken diamonds, and tourists are few and far between, enjoying the tranquility.
Migratory birds passing through: Bar-headed geese and black-necked cranes gather at Zhumucuo, and the lake reflects the snow-capped mountains and autumn forests.
1. King Gesar's Platform
: This 53x53-meter square earthen platform is said to have been King Gesar's training ground. Upon reaching the platform, you'll see relics such as the "Dismounting Stone" and "Stone Teaware," allowing you to imagine the scene of thousands of troops arrayed in formation.
Photography Tip: Capture the platform's long shadows slicing across the grassland at sunrise, and wear Tibetan robes and wave prayer flags to enhance the narrative.
2. Zhumucuo (Emerald Sea)
: Mythical Lake: Legend has it that it was formed from the lost headdress of Princess Zhumu. Covering 0.6 square kilometers, the waters are crystal clear. Swans often swim here, and in September, you can photograph the "bird waves" flying across the snow-capped mountains.
Hidden Gem: Explore the lake and search for the "Princess's Dressing Stone." Herders claim that touching it will bring blessings for love.
3. Rangu Temple and the Pleasant Buddha Group
: A Tantric wonder: This Red Sect temple houses 108 twin-bodied Pleasant Buddhas, the largest in the world, symbolizing the unity of wisdom and compassion. Photography is prohibited within the inner halls, but the thangka wall in the outer courtyard is permitted.
Longdengba Grassland is part of the Tibetan cultural region of Ganzi Prefecture in Sichuan. It is significant for its pristine high-altitude grasslands, traditional Tibetan herding lifestyle, and rich biodiversity. The area reflects the harmony between local communities and nature.
Longdengba Grassland is located in Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, China. Visitors typically reach it via Kangding or Litang by bus or private car, then local taxis or guided tours can take you to the grassland itself. Public transportation is limited, so private transport is recommended.
The grassland is open year-round as it is a natural area. The best time to visit is from late May to September, when the grass is green and flowers bloom, and the weather is mild.
There is generally no formal entrance fee for Longdengba Grassland, though some local areas may charge a small access fee. Tickets, if needed, are usually purchased offline at local entry points.
Advance booking is not typically required for entry. However, if hiring guides, arranging horseback rides, or staying at nearby accommodations, booking a few days to a week in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.
A half-day can cover basic sightseeing, while a full day is ideal to enjoy hikes, horse rides, and photography. Overnight stays for camping offer a complete experience.
Guided tours may be available through local operators, mostly in Chinese. English-speaking guides are limited, so arranging a private guide or translator in advance is recommended.
Start at the main access point, walk or ride towards central viewpoints, visit nearby villages, then explore open plains and water features. Return before nightfall unless camping.
There are no formal night tours or light shows. Nighttime experiences are limited to camping, stargazing, and enjoying the natural environment.
The grassland is generally peaceful and less crowded than more famous grasslands. Weekdays and early mornings are the quietest times, while summer weekends see more visitors.
Facilities are basic. Some small shops, local eateries, and rest areas may exist near villages. Carry water, snacks, and necessary supplies for a self-sufficient visit.
The terrain can be uneven and hilly. Elderly and children should take care, and accessibility for disabled visitors may be limited. Guided rides or flat areas near villages offer easier access.
Cash is recommended, especially for small vendors and local services. Mobile payments may be accepted in some areas, but reliability is limited.
Local Tibetan-style restaurants and simple eateries are available near villages. Options are limited, so carrying light snacks is advised.
Vegetarian options may be available in Tibetan restaurants; halal options are limited but possible in some local eateries. Confirm in advance if required.
Guesthouses, small hotels, and homestays are available in nearby towns such as Litang or Kangding. Booking in advance is recommended during peak season.
Souvenir options include Tibetan handicrafts, rugs, prayer flags, jewelry, and local dairy products.
Private cars or taxis are the most practical. Local buses may connect to nearby towns, but schedules are limited. Renting a vehicle or joining a tour is recommended for flexible travel.
