Gonggarh County

Introducing Gonggarh County

Gongjue means "Gong" Living Buddha settled in "Jue" in Tibetan. It is located in the southeastern Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, the northern section of Tanggula Hengduan Mountains, and the west bank of the upper reaches of Jinsha River.

The dwellings in Gongjue Sanyan have a very unique feature - they are built in the style of watchtowers. These houses echo each other and are built on the mountain. In the concentrated areas, dozens of houses can be seen as far as the eye can see, forming a spectacular group of watchtowers.

The scenery of the Dharma Temple grassland in Lato Township, Gonggar County is unique. Cang (a place name), 15 kilometers away from the seat of the Lato Township People's Government, has become a very famous tourist destination because of the natural giant "Six-Character Mantra".

Climate and best time to travel

Gonggar County belongs to the semi-arid and semi-humid mountain climate zone in the southeastern Tibetan temperate zone. The temperature varies significantly vertically, the temperature is relatively low, and the daily temperature difference is large, making it suitable for tourism in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Lato Wetland

Located in Latuo Village, Latuo Township, Gonggar County, 80 kilometers from the county seat, the wetland is a mosaic of hills and plains, dotted with lakes and grasslands. Covering approximately 30 square kilometers, with an average elevation of 4,300 meters, it is one of the finest wetlands in the Qamdo region.

Three Rocks

Located in the eastern part of Gonggar County, on the west bank of the upper reaches of the Jinsha River, "Sanyan" means a dangerous place in Tibetan. Here, the mountains are high and the valleys are deep, the cliffs are towering, and the forests are dense. The social organization of the primitive patriarchal clan period - "Pacuo" still remains. The unique geographical and social environment has created the brave and tough personality of the local people, and also formed the unique regional characteristics and the different styles of watchtower culture and folk customs. It is a human paradise integrating tourism, adventure, sightseeing and archaeology.

Recommended play time: 1 day

---

Most Popular FAQs for Gonggarh County

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

Gonggarh County is a historically rich region in Tibet, part of Chamdo, known for its deep-rooted Tibetan culture and connection to Buddhism. It is located in a remote part of Tibet, surrounded by majestic mountains and valleys, offering insights into the ancient traditions of the Tibetan Plateau.

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

Gonggarh County is located in Chamdo, Tibet, China. There are no metro services in the area due to its remote location. Visitors typically reach the area by bus, private vehicle, or hiking from nearby towns.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The region does not have specific opening hours as it is primarily outdoors and rural. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months, as the weather is milder and more suitable for trekking.

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

There is no specific entrance fee to visit Gonggarh County. Some monasteries or cultural sites may charge a small entrance fee. Tickets can usually be bought on-site or through local tour agencies.

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

Generally, tickets do not need to be booked in advance, but for special tours or visits to remote monasteries, it is recommended to book tours a few days ahead, especially during the peak season.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Gonggarh County, including its natural beauty and cultural sites, 3 to 4 days are recommended. Longer stays are ideal for trekking and immersing yourself in the Tibetan way of life.

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

• The panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
• The Tibetan monasteries, where you can learn about Buddhist practices.
• The local Tibetan villages and their traditional architecture.
• Scenic trekking trails that offer glimpses of wildlife and untouched nature.

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

Guided tours are available, typically in Tibetan and Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be available through certain travel agencies in Lhasa or Chamdo.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The high-altitude trekking routes provide breathtaking views of the plateau.
• Monasteries and Tibetan villages offer beautiful backdrops for photography, especially at sunrise or sunset.
• The river valleys and mountain passes are great for landscape photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A recommended itinerary includes visiting the monasteries first, then hiking through the scenic trails and valleys, and ending with a visit to nearby Tibetan villages to learn about local life.

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

There are no night visits or light shows in Gonggarh County. It is best to visit during the day to enjoy the natural beauty and cultural heritage.

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

Gonggarh County is relatively less crowded compared to other parts of Tibet. To avoid crowds, visit during the spring or autumn months, which are off-peak times for tourists.

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

Basic facilities such as toilets and water stations are available near major tourist spots like monasteries. Food options are available at local restaurants, but it is advisable to bring your own snacks and water for remote areas.

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

Due to its rugged terrain and mountainous environment, Gonggarh County may not be fully accessible for elderly or disabled visitors. Trekking may also be challenging for young children.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is the preferred method of payment, as cards and mobile payments like WeChat Pay or Alipay are not widely accepted in remote areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are basic Tibetan restaurants in nearby towns offering traditional dishes like momos, thukpa, and butter tea. Options are limited, so it's advisable to bring your own food for longer hikes.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are common in Tibetan cuisine, such as vegetable stew and Tibetan bread. Halal food is less common, but vegetarian options are widely available.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Basic guesthouses and lodges are available in towns near Gonggarh County. For more comfort, visitors can stay in Chamdo or Lhasa, where better accommodations are available.

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

• Lhasa, Tibet’s capital, with the famous Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple.
• Namling Monastery, a historical site nearby.
• The Nyingchi region, known for its natural beauty and scenic landscapes.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, local souvenir shops offer traditional Tibetan crafts such as prayer wheels, handmade jewelry, and religious statues. Tibetan textiles like carpets and scarves are also popular.

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

• Buses or private vehicles are available for travel to Chamdo, Lhasa, or other parts of Tibet.
• For those continuing on a trek, it is advisable to have a private guide or tour arrangement.