Litang

Introducing Litang

Litang, meaning "flat grassland like a bronze mirror" in Tibetan, is named after the vast Maoya Grassland within the county. With an altitude of 4,014 meters, the county seat is known as the "Highest City in the World."

Litang Temple, also known as Changqingchunkol Temple, is a famous tourist attraction in Litang. It is the largest yellow temple in southern Kang region and is known as the "Buddhist Holy Land in Southern Kang". The temple houses various types of precious cultural relics such as gilded bronze statues of Sakyamuni, Buddhist scriptures, the saddle used by the Third Dalai Lama, and murals from the Ming and Qing dynasties. The temple's butter flower sculpture festival on the fifteenth day of the first lunar month every year is known as "a unique attraction in Kang region."

Climate and best time to travel

Litang has long, dry and cold winters and short, warm and cool warm seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1 day

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Most Popular FAQs for Litang

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

Litang is a town located in the Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture and is of great significance to Tibetan Buddhism. It is home to the Litang Monastery, one of the largest monasteries in the Tibetan Plateau. Historically, Litang was an important cultural and religious center, known for its high-altitude grasslands and unique Tibetan nomadic lifestyle.

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

Litang is located in the southwest of Sichuan province. It can be reached by bus from Kangding, which is the nearest major city. The journey to Litang involves a scenic drive through mountainous roads, offering stunning views of the plateau. There is no metro, and taxi or walking is not recommended for long distances due to the rough terrain.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Litang is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is mild, and the wildflowers bloom on the grasslands. The autumn months (September to October) are also great for photography due to the colorful landscapes. Winter and spring can be cold and challenging for outdoor activities.

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

Entrance to Litang itself is free, but certain attractions like the Litang Monastery may charge a small fee, around 20-30 RMB. Tickets can be bought at the entrance of these attractions or through local tour operators. Online booking is not commonly available for most sites.

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

Tickets for attractions such as the Litang Monastery do not need to be booked in advance, and you can purchase them on-site. However, during peak tourist seasons (summer and autumn), it’s advisable to book accommodation and local tours in advance, at least a week before your visit.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Litang, you should plan at least 2-3 days. This allows time to visit the Litang Monastery, experience local culture, and explore the surrounding natural beauty. For those wanting to do more in-depth trekking or visit remote areas, additional days are recommended.

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

The Litang Monastery is the central highlight, with its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere. Also, the surrounding grasslands offer beautiful views, especially at sunrise and sunset. Visiting the Tibetan villages nearby provides insight into the local culture and way of life.

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

Guided tours are available for the Litang Monastery and surrounding areas. Most guides speak Mandarin, and some may offer services in English, though English-speaking guides are limited. It’s best to arrange a tour through local travel agencies.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are along the grasslands, especially near the Litang Monastery, where the backdrop of snow-capped mountains makes for dramatic photos. Sunrise and sunset over the plateau provide some of the most breathtaking views. For panoramic shots, the nearby mountains are also a great choice.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A recommended itinerary starts with a visit to the Litang Monastery, followed by a walk around the local Tibetan villages to experience daily life. Afterward, a hike or horseback ride through the surrounding grasslands, or even a trip to nearby high-altitude peaks, would complete the experience.

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

There are no specific light shows or night visits available in Litang. However, the clear night skies over the Tibetan Plateau make it an excellent spot for stargazing, with minimal light pollution.

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

Litang is not as crowded as some other Tibetan destinations, making it a peaceful place to visit. The least crowded times are during the winter and early spring months when fewer tourists visit due to colder weather.

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

Facilities in Litang are basic but sufficient for most travelers. There are public toilets, local restaurants serving Tibetan food, and small shops selling souvenirs. Drinking water and other essentials are available, but it’s a good idea to bring extra supplies if you're venturing into remote areas.

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

The rugged terrain of Litang and its high altitude may make it challenging for elderly, young children, or disabled visitors to fully enjoy the site. While the town itself is accessible, some hiking areas and the monastery may require more strenuous effort.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is widely used in Litang, and mobile payment methods such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are increasingly accepted, especially in larger towns. However, in more remote areas, it's best to carry cash, as card payment options are limited.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several local restaurants offering Tibetan cuisine, including momos (dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), and yak meat dishes. Most eateries are simple but provide authentic local food. For more variety, visitors can head to the town center.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available, particularly in the form of vegetable-based Tibetan dishes. Halal food options are less common, but travelers can inquire with local restaurants to see if they can accommodate specific dietary needs.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Litang has a range of accommodations, from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels. For more luxurious stays, visitors may need to head to larger towns such as Kangding. It’s advisable to book accommodations in advance during peak seasons.

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

Nearby attractions include the town of Kangding, which offers access to more Tibetan culture and mountain treks. The Daping Tibetan Cultural Village and the scenic Sershul Monastery are also worth a visit. These places can be combined in a day trip from Litang.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops in Litang sell a variety of Tibetan handicrafts such as handmade jewelry, prayer beads, and traditional Tibetan textiles. You can also find religious items like prayer wheels and thangka paintings.

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

After visiting Litang, travelers can take buses or hire taxis to nearby towns like Kangding or Chengdu. For more flexibility, renting a car is a good option, though be prepared for high-altitude mountain roads.