Tagong Grassland

What are the most recommended things to do in Tagong Grassland?

  • Ride horses across the vast grasslands to experience Tibetan nomadic culture.
  • Photograph the stunning high-altitude landscapes, especially at sunrise and sunset.
  • Visit Tagong Monastery, a major Tibetan Buddhist site nearby.
  • Hike or walk along scenic trails to explore the rolling hills and pastures.
  • Interact with local herders and learn about their traditional lifestyle.
  • Camp on the grasslands for a night under the stars.

Introducing Tagong Grassland

Tagong Grassland is located in Tagong Town, Kangding City, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province. It is the closest pure pastoral grassland to Kangding. From late June to early August every year is the most beautiful and lively season of Tagong Grassland. If you are lucky, you can also catch the grand traditional horse racing meeting.

Some people think it's just a grassy plain, meaningless, but for photographers, it's a surprising spot. Along the Tagong Road, wildflowers are in full bloom, and tents with white and blue patterns are occasionally set up casually on the green grass. You might even spot yaks, horses, or sheep leisurely grazing, and your mood will become bright and relaxed.

Climate and best time to travel

Plateau mountain climate;

Late June to early August

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Tagong Temple

Tagong Monastery is a vital part of the Tagong Grassland. Behind the monastery lie three mountain ranges, densely packed with Mani prayer flags in triangular and square formations, fluttering in the wind. Although the vibrant colors have faded in the wind and rain, this does not dampen the Tibetans' devotion. It is said that the prayer flags are read by the wind into the Buddha's ears. These are the three sacred mountains of the Three Uttarakuru Mountains, a core part of Tibetan Buddhism.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day


Most Popular FAQs for Tagong Grassland

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

Tagong Grassland is a high-altitude Tibetan grassland in Sichuan, known for its vast plains, traditional Tibetan culture, and the Tagong Monastery. It is culturally and spiritually significant to Tibetan Buddhism and attracts photographers and nature lovers worldwide.

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

Tagong Grassland is located in Kangding County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan. It is accessible by road from Kangding or Litang. Travelers typically use private cars, taxis, or local buses; walking is suitable for exploring the grasslands locally.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The grassland is open year-round. The best time to visit is late spring to early autumn (May–October) when the weather is mild and the grass is green, ideal for photography and outdoor activities.

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

There is no entrance fee for Tagong Grassland itself. Fees may apply for guided tours or horseback riding, which can be arranged offline locally.

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

Advance booking is only needed for accommodations, guided tours, or horseback riding services; local visits to the grasslands do not require prior tickets.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

1–2 days are sufficient to experience the grasslands, visit Tagong Monastery, and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking or horse riding.

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

  • Expansive green pastures with grazing yaks
  • Tagong Monastery and its surrounding cultural sites
  • Rolling hills and mountain backdrops
  • Traditional Tibetan herders and their settlements

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

Guided tours are available locally, usually in Chinese and occasionally in English. Audio guides are generally not provided.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • Sunrise and sunset over the grasslands and mountains
  • Tagong Monastery and its surrounding area
  • Rolling hills and rivers cutting through the plains
  • Traditional Tibetan nomadic settlements

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Begin at Tagong Monastery, explore the village, ride or walk across the grasslands, and visit local herder settlements. End at scenic viewpoints for sunset photography.

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

Night visits are possible, especially for stargazing and camping. There are no organized light shows, but some cultural experiences may be arranged locally.

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

The grasslands are generally peaceful. Peak visitation occurs during summer holidays; weekdays in spring or autumn are the least crowded.

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

Basic facilities include small restaurants, guesthouses, public restrooms, and local shops. Visitors should carry water for long outdoor trips.

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

Accessible for most visitors, but uneven terrain may be challenging for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash (Chinese yuan) is recommended for local services; mobile payments like WeChat and Alipay are widely accepted.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Small Tibetan-style guesthouses and restaurants serve local dishes, yak meat, noodles, and butter tea. Limited modern cafes are available.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at Tibetan restaurants (mainly vegetables and tsampa). Halal options are limited.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

  • Guesthouses and inns in Tagong village
  • Small hotels catering to tourists and photographers
  • Camping options on the grasslands

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

  • Kangding for Tibetan cultural experiences (2–3 hours drive)
  • Xinduqiao for scenic photography (1–2 hours drive)
  • Litang Tibetan Plateau (2–3 hours drive)

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops sell Tibetan handicrafts, prayer flags, yak wool products, and traditional clothing.

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

Private cars, local buses, or tour vans connect to Kangding, Litang, or Xinduqiao. From larger cities like Chengdu, flights or long-distance buses can be arranged.