Qiongjie County

Introducing Qiongjie County

Qiongjie, which means "corners of houses hanging multiple layers" in Tibetan, is located in the southeastern part of Tibet Autonomous Region, on the northern slope of the Himalayas.

After the eighth Tibetan king passed away, he was buried in Qingyu, where the first Tibetan royal tomb was built. From the ninth to the fifteenth kings, six royal palaces were built on Qingwadazi Mountain in Qiongjie. By the end of the 6th century, the city of Pibo, Tibet's earliest castle, was established in Qiongjie.

Qiongjie County is the birthplace of Tibetan culture. It has many historical sites, profound cultural heritage and rich tourism resources. The most famous ones are the Tibetan king tombs from the Tubo Dynasty, the Trisong Detsen merit stele and base stele, and the stone lions in the Tibetan king tombs. These are all national key cultural relics protection units.

Climate and best time to travel

Late summer is the most beautiful season in Qiongjie County, Tibet, the ancient capital of Tubo. Stepping into Qiongjie, visitors are greeted by blue skies and white clouds, and the air is fresh. The countryside is filled with lush greenery, rolling wheat fields, and fragrant wildflowers.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Dejilinka

This forest garden, located in Baisong Village, Jiama Township, Qiongjie County, was the summer home of the Fifth Dalai Lama, Lobsang Gyatso, as a child. The area is situated along the ancient Xiongqu River, stretching from east to west and wide from north to south, with the land as flat as a whetstone. In spring and summer, towering trees create a verdant landscape, mosses flourish, and birds sing and flowers bloom, making it a sacred spot in Qiongjie. During Tibetan festivals, people dress in their finest attire, celebrating the Fifth Dalai Lama with song and dance, celebrating the occasion with joy and happiness.

Recommended play time: 1 day

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Most Popular FAQs for Qiongjie County

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

Qiongjie County is a historically significant area in Tibet, known for its Tibetan Buddhist culture and nomadic lifestyle. The county is home to sacred sites and monasteries, and it serves as an important cultural and spiritual center for Tibetans.

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

Qiongjie County is located in the Shannan Prefecture of Tibet, around 100 kilometers south of Lhasa. The best way to reach the county is by road, with private cars or local buses being the most common options. No metro or taxis are available in the rural areas.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Qiongjie County can be visited year-round, but the best times to visit are from May to October, when the weather is milder. The winter months (November to February) are cold and may pose difficulties due to snow and travel restrictions.

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

There is generally no entrance fee for visiting Qiongjie County. However, certain monasteries and spiritual sites may charge a small donation or entry fee, which can be paid on-site.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not required for most sites in Qiongjie County. However, it is recommended to book in advance for guided tours or specific spiritual sites during peak tourist seasons (May to October).

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Qiongjie County, including visiting the monasteries and trekking through the landscapes, 2 to 3 days is recommended. This will allow enough time for spiritual immersion and outdoor activities.

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

• The local monasteries, which are central to the county's spiritual and cultural identity.
• The surrounding mountainous landscape, offering stunning views and opportunities for trekking and photography.
• The sacred Tibetan Buddhist sites, such as shrines and temples, which are vital to Tibetan spiritual practices.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin and Tibetan, and English-speaking guides can be requested for a more personalized experience. Audio guides may also be available at certain sites.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The hills surrounding the monasteries provide panoramic views of the Tibetan Plateau and are ideal for photography.
• The high-altitude trekking paths offer incredible photo opportunities, particularly with the backdrop of snow-capped mountains.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A suggested itinerary is to start your visit with the monasteries in the morning, followed by a scenic trek through the mountain valleys. End the day with a visit to the sacred sites and enjoy the sunset from one of the high points.

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

Night visits are not common due to the remote nature of Qiongjie County. However, stargazing can be an unforgettable experience due to the clear skies at night.

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

Qiongjie County is not overly crowded, especially compared to major tourist destinations in Tibet. The least crowded times are during the winter months (November to February), though weather conditions may be challenging.

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

Basic facilities, such as toilets, food shops, and rest areas, are available in the county’s towns. However, for more comprehensive services, visitors will need to travel to Lhasa or other larger towns.

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

The terrain in Qiongjie County can be challenging, with mountainous paths and high altitudes. Elderly, children, and disabled visitors may face difficulties in accessing some sites, especially those that require trekking or long walks.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly used in Qiongjie County, and mobile payments are less widespread. It’s advisable to carry enough cash, especially when visiting remote areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few local restaurants serving Tibetan cuisine, such as tsampa (roasted barley flour) and momo (dumplings). More dining options can be found in nearby towns or Lhasa.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are widely available in Tibetan cuisine, and halal food is also common due to the Tibetan Muslim population.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Basic guesthouses and hotels are available in Qiongjie County. For more comfortable stays, it’s recommended to stay in Lhasa and visit the county as part of a day trip.

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

• The Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse, an important Tibetan Buddhist site.
• Namtso Lake, a breathtaking saltwater lake located to the northeast, offering stunning natural beauty.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, souvenir shops are available in Qiongjie County, offering Tibetan handicrafts, prayer beads, and local textiles. Traditional Tibetan rugs and clothing are also popular items.

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

• Private cars or taxis are the most convenient way to continue your journey to Lhasa or other parts of Tibet.
• Local buses can also be used, but they may be less comfortable and have limited schedules.