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The Bangda Grassland, located in the high mountains and deep valleys of the Sanjiang River Basin in the Qamdo area of the Tibet Autonomous Region, is a high-altitude grassland with a wide and gentle terrain and abundant water and grass. It is more than 130 kilometers away from Basu County.
The Bonda Grassland is a broad and flat mountain basin between the Lancang River and the Nu River. The Yuqu River, a tributary of the Nu River, meanders here. On both sides of the river are low-lying wetlands and grasslands with meadow plants.
Because it is located in eastern Tibet, it receives slightly more rainfall than central and western Tibet. Coupled with river irrigation, the grass is relatively lush. Along the way, you can see herds of cattle and sheep leisurely grazing on the grassland.
The Bonda Grassland is famous because the world's highest-altitude airport, Qamdo Bonda Airport, is located on the grassland. It was completed and opened in 1995. It is known as the civil airport "farthest from the city" and "with the worst climate in the world."
The Bonda grasslands are full of wild flowers in summer, making it the best time to visit.
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Bonda Grassland is a high-altitude Tibetan plateau in Chamdo, Tibet. It is significant for its pristine natural environment and traditional Tibetan nomadic lifestyle, offering insight into the pastoral culture and highland ecology of eastern Tibet.
Bonda Grassland is located in Chamdo, eastern Tibet. Access is mainly via private car or organized tour from Chamdo city. Local buses may be available but infrequent. Walking is possible only for short excursions within the grassland.
There is no fixed entrance fee for Bonda Grassland. Some guided tours may charge a fee, bookable offline through local operators.
Booking in advance is not required for casual visits. For guided tours, arranging 1–2 weeks in advance is recommended.
A half-day is enough for a basic walk and sightseeing. Full-day visits allow hiking, horseback riding, and cultural experiences in nearby villages.
Guided tours are mostly available in Chinese and Tibetan. English-speaking guides are rare and must be arranged in advance.
Night visits are possible for camping under the stars, but there are no organized light shows or special tours. Cultural events may be arranged by local guides on request.
The grassland is generally quiet and uncrowded. Weekdays and off-peak months (May–June, September) are the least crowded.
Facilities are minimal. Some basic rest areas, small teahouses, and local stalls may be available near villages, but bring your own water and snacks.
Accessibility is moderate. Elderly and children can enjoy the open plains, but uneven terrain and high altitude may be challenging. Disabled access is limited.
Cash is recommended for any local purchases. Card or mobile payments are generally not accepted in this remote area.
Small Tibetan-style teahouses and eateries in nearby villages offer local food like tsampa, yak meat, and butter tea.
Vegetarian options are limited. Halal options depend on local Tibetan vendors.
Local Tibetan guesthouses, small inns, and homestays are available near the grassland, often offering basic amenities.
Small shops in nearby villages sell Tibetan handicrafts, prayer flags, jewelry, and local textiles.
