Renbu County

Introducing Renbu County

"Renbu" means "many treasures, treasure gathering" in Tibetan. It is located in the southern part of Tibet Autonomous Region and the eastern part of Shigatse City.

Renbu County boasts a rich history, situated at the junction of the front and back Tibet. Its people, with the latter being the dominant region, enjoy a coexistence of both front and back Tibetan customs, characterized by diligence, simplicity, and hospitality. Major traditional festivals include the Cuola Garbu Cultural Tourism Festival, the Jiqu Festival, and the Jianggar Tibetan Opera Cultural Tourism Festival.

The main tourist attractions in the county include: the Holy Kari Mountain in Padang Township, the Guanxiang Sacred Lake in Yongze Green Cotso, the "Bumucuo" Mountain in Mu Township, etc., as well as Jiangga Tibetan Opera, one of the four major schools of blue mask Tibetan Opera, Renbu Yu, Kangxiong butter sculptures and ethnic handicrafts and other famous historical and cultural relics, tourist attractions and tourism products.

Climate and best time to travel

Renbu County has a southern temperate semi-arid plateau monsoon climate with ample sunshine and an average annual temperature of 6.3°C. The rainy season is concentrated in July and August.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Yongze Lucuo

Located in Dejilin Township, Renbu County, approximately 70 kilometers from the county seat, this lake is said to reveal fortune and misfortune in this life and the next. Consequently, Yongze Lucuo Lake is considered a "divine lake for physiognomy." Even the reincarnation of the Panchen Lama was traditionally observed here. The allure of this sacred lake lies not only in its natural beauty but also in its lingering spiritual aura. It is this fusion of nature and humanity that draws countless visitors and pilgrims to each of these sacred lakes on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.

Qiangqin Monastery

Located at the foot of Gongba Gyalpo Mountain, approximately 3,800 meters above sea level, the monastery faces south and covers an area of ​​approximately 6,000 square meters. It was built in 1427 by Rinpo Tsongkhapa, the leader of the Rinpo Tsongkhapa. After more than 600 years of vicissitudes, the Qiangqin Monastery still welcomes monks and believers who come to worship here.

Recommended play time: 1 day

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Most Popular FAQs for Renbu County

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Renbu County, located in Tibet's Shigatse Prefecture, is rich in Tibetan Buddhist culture and history. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, including vast plateaus and towering mountains. The region is home to traditional Tibetan villages where the local culture and lifestyle remain largely unchanged. The county’s monasteries and religious significance make it a key destination for those exploring Tibetan spirituality.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Renbu County is located in the southwestern part of Tibet, near the border with Nepal. The best way to get there is by road from Shigatse, which is approximately 160 kilometers away. Travelers can take a bus or taxi to Renbu County. As there is no metro service, road transport is the most common option. Walking is feasible for local exploration but not for long distances.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Renbu County is an open region without formal hours of operation, but the best time to visit is during the warmer months, from May to October. The peak tourist season is during the summer, but spring and autumn offer more temperate weather and fewer crowds.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There are no entrance fees for Renbu County itself, but some specific attractions, like monasteries or certain trekking routes, may have small fees. Tickets can be purchased on-site, and there is generally no need for online booking unless it involves special tours.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

No advance booking is necessary for Renbu County itself. However, if you are planning to visit specific monasteries or engage in organized tours, it is recommended to book at least a week in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A full exploration of Renbu County, including trekking, visiting monasteries, and immersing in the local culture, can take 2 to 3 days. This allows for a relaxed visit without rushing through the county's main highlights.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The monasteries scattered across the region, including those with ancient Tibetan Buddhist relics and murals.
• The natural landscapes, such as high-altitude grasslands and views of the Himalayas.
• Local Tibetan villages, where you can experience authentic rural Tibetan culture and architecture.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available, especially for visitors interested in exploring Tibetan culture, history, and religion. These tours are primarily in Mandarin, with some English-speaking guides available for international tourists. Audio guides are less common but may be available for some sites.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The high-altitude plateaus, where you can capture panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks and vast Tibetan grasslands.
• The monasteries, especially those perched on the sides of hills or mountains, offering both architectural beauty and breathtaking surroundings for photography.
• The Tibetan villages, where you can capture the charm of traditional Tibetan life amidst scenic landscapes.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the monasteries, which are often the heart of Tibetan culture. Then, spend time exploring the natural beauty of the county through hiking or trekking routes. Lastly, visit the local Tibetan villages to experience daily life. A circular route that begins and ends at Renbu’s central areas would provide a comprehensive experience.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are generally not available in Renbu County. The area is rural and relatively quiet after dark. Special tours may be available upon request, such as spiritual or cultural tours, but these are typically daytime activities.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Renbu County is less crowded compared to major Tibetan destinations like Lhasa. The least crowded times are during the winter months, from November to March, when temperatures are lower and fewer tourists visit. Spring and autumn provide a good balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Renbu County is a relatively remote area, so facilities are limited. There are basic toilets and small local shops in the county center and surrounding villages. Food options are primarily Tibetan cuisine, with local eateries serving traditional dishes. Water is available but may need to be purchased or carried from local shops.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Due to the mountainous terrain and rural setting, Renbu County may not be easily accessible for elderly, young children, or disabled visitors, especially for those wishing to visit remote monasteries or go trekking. However, the main roads and areas near the county center are more accessible.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly needed in Renbu County, as mobile payments and cards are rarely accepted. It’s best to carry sufficient cash in Chinese yuan, especially for purchases in remote villages or rural areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are small Tibetan restaurants and tea houses serving local dishes, such as tsampa (roasted barley flour) and yak meat. More substantial restaurant options can be found in Shigatse, which is a larger city located around 160 km away from Renbu County.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available, particularly for tourists who prefer plant-based foods. Tibetan cuisine typically includes barley, vegetables, and dairy, making vegetarian and vegan diets fairly easy to follow. Halal options are limited, but you may find them in larger cities like Shigatse.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are basic guesthouses and inns in Renbu County, offering simple accommodations. For more luxurious options, visitors may need to travel to Shigatse, where a variety of hotels are available ranging from budget to mid-range and high-end accommodations.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Shigatse, which is home to the Tashilhunpo Monastery, one of Tibet's most important religious sites.
• The Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet’s most beautiful and sacred lakes, located a few hours from Renbu County.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops are mostly local and offer traditional Tibetan handicrafts, such as prayer beads, thangka paintings, and handwoven textiles. You can also find local Tibetan jewelry and small religious artifacts.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

The best transportation option to continue your trip is by bus or private car. Shigatse, which is the closest large city, is about a 3-hour drive away, and from there, you can take a bus to Lhasa or other major Tibetan destinations.