
Zhaguanbeng is dotted with magnificent pyramid-like Mani piles, built piece by piece over thousands of years by the Tibetans who circumambulated the mountains of Daocheng Yading. It is a 20-minute journey from Chonggu Temple and is a must-see on the way there.
"Zhaguanbeng" means "the end of the cliff" in Tibetan. "Zhaguan" means "the cave for meditation on the top of the mountain," and "beng" means the tail, which refers to the dam under the rock. According to legend, a high monk practiced meditation in a cave on the cliff, and later the Zhaguan Temple was built in this cave.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
Tickets are included in the Daocheng Yading Scenic Area ticket
7:00-18:30. Ticket sales will stop after 18:30
Zhaguanbeng is a relatively lesser-known but culturally significant area in the Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. It is notable for its unique Tibetan architecture, religious sites, and close proximity to several important Tibetan cultural landmarks.
Zhaguanbeng is located in the Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Sichuan. It can be accessed by taxi or bus from the nearest city, Kangding, which is about 100 km away. Travel by car is recommended due to the remote location.
Zhaguanbeng is an open area with no specific opening hours. The best time to visit is from late spring to early autumn (May to September) when the weather is mild and outdoor activities are most enjoyable.
There is no entrance fee for Zhaguanbeng itself. However, certain temples and cultural sites in the region may have a small entrance fee, which can be paid on-site.
No advance booking is necessary for visiting Zhaguanbeng. However, it is advisable to book transportation in advance, especially if visiting during peak tourist seasons.
It typically takes about half a day to explore Zhaguanbeng and its surrounding areas. If you're interested in hiking or photography, you may want to allocate an entire day.
Guided tours may be available, but they are limited. Most guides speak Mandarin, and some may have basic knowledge of English. It's recommended to arrange a tour in advance if you require specific language support.
Start with a visit to the main monastery, then take a walk through the surrounding Tibetan villages. End your day with a scenic hike or photography session near the river or on the mountainside.
Night visits are not typically available, and there are no light shows in Zhaguanbeng. However, the peaceful atmosphere at night makes it a great place for stargazing.
Zhaguanbeng is generally not crowded, especially compared to more popular tourist destinations in Sichuan. Weekdays or early mornings are the least crowded times to visit.
Basic facilities such as toilets are available, but food and water may be limited in the area. It's recommended to carry your own water and snacks. Rest areas are available for relaxing during your visit.
Zhaguanbeng is a relatively remote area with uneven terrain. It may not be fully accessible for elderly or disabled visitors, especially if they have difficulty with walking or hiking. It is advisable to check specific access conditions before visiting.
Cash is required for most purchases in Zhaguanbeng, as mobile payments and credit cards are not widely accepted in the area. It's advisable to carry sufficient cash.
There are a few small local restaurants near Zhaguanbeng offering Tibetan cuisine. Options for dining are limited, so it's best to plan accordingly.
Vegetarian options are available at some local restaurants, especially in the form of Tibetan-style dishes. Halal food options are not common in this region.
Souvenir shops are available, selling local Tibetan handicrafts, jewelry, and textiles, including handwoven scarves and Tibetan rugs.