Live Your Best Lives
Yanjing is most famous for its ancient salt fields that have lasted for thousands of years. It has a history of 1,300 years and is located on the east and west banks of the Lancang River in Yanjing Town. It is the only place in my country that has preserved the most complete and original method of manual salt drying.
Historical records indicate that salt production in salt wells dates back to the Tang Dynasty. The process itself is simple. Every morning, women descend from ladders to a depth of several to ten meters below the caverns, carry brine back, and pour it into the salt pans. Under the intense sunlight, the water gradually evaporates, and salt grains form in the pans.
This primitive method of salt production has remained unchanged for thousands of years. The majestic salt fields, built layer upon layer against the mountainside, are a sight to behold. Following the footsteps of their ancestors, salt farmers toil diligently on rugged and treacherous paths, sustaining their livelihoods while also creating a unique landscape.
The climate here is relatively hot and dry, and the peak season for salt mining is from March to May each year.
Recommended play time: 2-3 hours
free
All day
Mangkang Salt Well is one of Tibet’s ancient salt production sites, historically crucial for trade and local economy. It reflects traditional Tibetan methods of salt extraction and provides insight into the daily lives of local communities and their cultural heritage.
Located in Mangkang County, Chamdo, eastern Tibet. Visitors typically travel by private car or guided tour from Chamdo. Public transportation is limited; walking is required to explore the salt wells.
Entrance is generally free. Guided tours or local agencies may charge a small fee; tickets are booked offline.
Booking is not mandatory for casual visits. For guided tours, book 1–2 weeks in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist season.
2–3 hours to explore the salt wells, observe production, and enjoy the surrounding scenery.
Guided tours are available through local agencies, typically in Chinese and Tibetan; English may be available with special arrangements.
Night visits are not allowed. Special tours may be organized during local festivals or salt harvest periods.
It is generally quiet except during local festivals or harvest periods. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.
Cash is preferred for local purchases and donations; cards and mobile payments may not be widely accepted.
Small local eateries near the entrance serving traditional Tibetan food; limited facilities inside the salt well area.
Vegetarian and vegan options are usually available in Tibetan dishes; Halal options are limited.
Guesthouses and small hotels in Mangkang town, approximately 15–30 minutes by car from the salt wells.
Yes, near the entrance; typical souvenirs include Tibetan salt, handicrafts, prayer flags, and local artworks.
