Luhuo County

Introducing Luhuo County

Luhuo County, part of Garze Prefecture in Sichuan Province, is located in the north-central Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. The Sichuan-Tibet Highway 317 runs through the county from southeast to northwest. Historically, it was a key thoroughfare from Tibet to Qinghai and a key town on the Ancient Tea-Horse Road. Luhuo County is the center of northern Kang and a crucial transportation hub.

Luhuo means "mountain village" in Tibetan, citing its origins as the land of the four Tusi tribes that governed the Horzhang Valley. It is home to a diverse range of ethnic minorities, including the Yi, Tibetan, Qiang, Miao, Hui, Mongolian, Tujia, Lisu, Manchu, Yao, Dong, Naxi, Buyi, Bai, Zhuang, and Dai. It also boasts a large grassland area, creating a semi-agricultural and semi-pastoral landscape.

Climate and best time to travel

It belongs to the sub-humid climate zone of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, with warm summers, cold winters and springs, dry air, and strong winds and sandstorms.

Summer and autumn are the best seasons to visit

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Lake Kasa

Located 60 kilometers west of Luhuo County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, at an altitude of 3,510 meters and covering an area of ​​1.92 square kilometers, Kasa Lake is a plateau freshwater lake and the largest waterbird habitat along the northern Sichuan-Tibet Highway. In winter, Kasa Lake's waters are like a mirror, reflecting the mountains and white clouds, creating a tranquil and beautiful scene.

Mibale, a quiet holy place

Located in Renda Township, Luhuo County, this area is the sanctuary of the Three Protectors of the Tantric Buddhism. Also known as the Three Protectors Sacred Mountains, the three mountains face each other and are steeped in legend. The mountains boast numerous landscapes, including forests, caves, and white springs. Rare animals inhabit the mountains, and within the valley are two temples belonging to the Nyingma and Bonpo sects, respectively.

Luhuokasa Lake Sarcophagus Tomb

The Kasa Lake sarcophagus cemetery in Luhuo County was discovered in early 1984 during the excavation of a water diversion channel for the Kasa Lake hydroelectric power station. Excavations revealed an area of ​​approximately 6,000 square meters. The west side of the diversion channel and the surrounding area of ​​the lake were not explored; only 275 sarcophagus tombs were excavated within the diversion channel area. This is the largest sarcophagus burial complex in China. The sarcophagi vary in construction method and form, and can be broadly categorized into four types: complete sarcophagus, common sarcophagus, simple sarcophagus, and modified sarcophagus.

It is recommended to visit for 1~2 days

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Most Popular FAQs for Luhuo County

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

Luhuo County is known for its rich Tibetan heritage, deep-rooted in Buddhism. The region's history is marked by its significant role in Tibetan culture and religion. Luhuo is home to several monasteries that attract pilgrims, and the area remains a cultural hub for Tibetans living in Sichuan.

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

Luhuo County is located in the Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Sichuan, China. It is accessible by bus from Chengdu, and visitors can hire taxis for a more direct route. The region is not served by a metro system, but roads are well-maintained for driving or public transport.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

There are no specific opening hours for Luhuo County as it is a region with outdoor attractions. The best time to visit is from May to October when the weather is pleasant and the landscape is lush, though winter offers a serene, snow-capped experience.

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

There is no entrance fee for Luhuo County. However, some monasteries and specific cultural sites may charge a small fee, which can be paid on-site. Visitors can inquire locally for ticket information at individual attractions.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not required for general visits to Luhuo County. However, for special events or monastery visits, it may be advisable to book ahead, particularly during peak seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore the natural landscapes and cultural sites in Luhuo, a 2 to 3-day trip is ideal. This allows time for visiting monasteries, hiking, and experiencing the local Tibetan culture.

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

• Luhuo Monastery, one of the most famous Tibetan monasteries in the region.
• The vast Tibetan plateau landscapes with impressive mountain views.
• Traditional Tibetan villages, offering insight into local life and customs.

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

Guided tours are available at some of the monasteries and cultural sites, but they are typically in Chinese or Tibetan. It is advisable to hire a local guide who can speak English if you do not speak Mandarin.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The views from the Luhuo Monastery, which offer a panoramic view of the surrounding Tibetan plateau.
• The Tibetan villages and fields, which offer authentic rural landscapes with the backdrop of mountains.
• Sunrise and sunset over the plateau for stunning, golden-hour photographs.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit by exploring Luhuo Monastery, followed by a hike through the surrounding landscape. Visit local villages for a deeper understanding of Tibetan life, and finish your day with a peaceful view of the sunset from one of the plateaus.

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

There are no light shows or night visits in Luhuo County. However, the area’s serenity at night, especially under the stars, offers a unique experience for visitors who appreciate quiet, natural beauty.

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

Luhuo County is not as crowded as major tourist destinations in China, but it does attract a significant number of visitors during summer and Tibetan New Year. The least crowded times are during the off-season, from November to March.

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

Facilities in Luhuo are limited. There are small local shops and basic restaurants offering Tibetan food. Toilets are available at major monasteries and tourist spots, but you may need to bring your own water and snacks for longer excursions.

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

Luhuo County's mountainous terrain can make it challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. The roads and some monasteries are accessible, but many of the natural sites require some hiking, which may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is generally required in Luhuo County, especially in smaller villages and local shops. Mobile payment systems are not widely accepted, and credit cards are rarely used outside of major cities.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are local Tibetan restaurants and small eateries serving traditional dishes like yak meat and barley. Options in Luhuo County are limited, but you'll find more variety in nearby towns or Ganzi City.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available, particularly for those seeking Tibetan barley and vegetable-based dishes. Vegan and halal options may be more limited but can be found in larger towns like Ganzi.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are basic guesthouses and small hotels in Luhuo County. For more comfortable accommodations, visitors may prefer to stay in Ganzi City, which offers a wider range of lodging options.

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

• Ganzi Monastery, a beautiful Tibetan Buddhist site located in Ganzi City.
• Yajiang County, offering similar Tibetan cultural experiences and landscapes.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are a few local shops where visitors can purchase traditional Tibetan crafts, such as handwoven scarves, yak wool products, prayer beads, and Tibetan jewelry.

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

After visiting Luhuo County, taxis and buses can take you to nearby towns such as Ganzi or Yajiang. From Ganzi, you can easily access other parts of Sichuan by bus or private transport.