Derge

What are the most recommended things to do in Derge?

Visit the famous Derge Printing House, one of the largest Tibetan woodblock printing centers.
Explore local Tibetan monasteries and temples to experience religious culture.
Walk through the traditional Tibetan streets and markets for local crafts and souvenirs.
Take photos of the surrounding mountains, rivers, and cultural landmarks.
Learn about Tibetan calligraphy and printing techniques through guided demonstrations.

Introducing Derge

Derge County, with its seat in Gengqing Town, is located in the northwest of Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province. Hidden away here is a centuries-old Buddhist scripture printing house. Far from the hustle and bustle of the city, the local customs are simple. Set amidst vast grasslands, nestled between mountains and rivers, the scenery is captivating.

Entering Derge County, the fluttering prayer flags and the sight of monks in auburn attire everywhere give you the feeling of having entered a Buddhist paradise. The five major Tibetan Buddhist sects each flourish here, and to promote their respective influences, they have established Buddhist academies.

Climate and best time to travel

Derge County has a continental plateau monsoon climate with dry air, low temperature, long winter and short summer.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Derge Sutra Printing House

Gengqing Monastery, a Sakya monastery located in Derge County, Sichuan Province, is renowned for its rich and comprehensive collection of books, including its inclusiveness of various sects. It is known as the "Encyclopedia of Tibetan Culture," "The Shining Cultural Pearl of the Tibetan Region," and "A Treasure House Beneath the Snow-capped Mountains."

Queer Mountain

Local residents call it "Cola," evoking the image of a woman holding a pipa, half-hiding her face. The main peak, at 6,168 meters, is not only the highest point on the Sichuan Highway, but also the highest point on the entire Sichuan-Tibet Highway. Therefore, Queer Mountain is known as the highest point in Sichuan and Tibet.

New Road Sea

A famous glacial lake in Ganzi Prefecture, Xinlu Lake is fed by the melting snow and glaciers of Mount Queer. The stream flowing out of the lake is one of the sources of the Cuoqu River. Xinlu Lake and its surrounding ecosystem are pristine and intact. The shimmering glacier cascades down from a 5,000-meter-high snow basin to the lakeside grasslands, creating a truly spectacular sight.

Recommended play time: 1-2 days

Most Popular FAQs for Derge

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

Derge is a historic town in the Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan. It is renowned for its centuries-old Derge Printing House, which preserves traditional Tibetan woodblock printing. The town has a rich cultural and religious history, serving as a hub for Tibetan Buddhism, art, and literature.

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

Derge is located in western Sichuan, near the border with Tibet. The town is accessible via bus or private car from nearby towns like Kangding or Ganzi. Walking is recommended for exploring the town center and cultural sites.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Best time to visit: May–October for mild weather and accessible roads.
Derge Printing House: usually open 8:00 AM–6:00 PM.
Monasteries and shops: generally open during daylight hours.

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

Derge Printing House: around 30–50 RMB; tickets bought onsite.
Monasteries: often free or small donation requested.
Guided tours: 100–300 RMB, bookable locally.

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

Booking is recommended for guided tours or workshops, ideally 1–2 weeks in advance. Individual visits to town and monasteries typically do not require advance tickets.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

1–2 days to explore the town, Printing House, monasteries, and local markets. Longer stays allow cultural immersion and nearby trekking.

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

Derge Printing House and its workshops
Local Tibetan monasteries
Traditional streets and markets
Scenic rivers and mountains surrounding the town

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese and sometimes English. Audio guides are limited and may not be widely available.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Exterior of Derge Printing House with wooden blocks
Monasteries on hilltops
Rivers and traditional Tibetan streets at sunrise or sunset

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with the Derge Printing House → visit local monasteries → explore the town markets → enjoy scenic viewpoints along rivers and hills.

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

Night visits are limited; some monasteries may hold evening prayers. Special workshops at the Printing House may be arranged by appointment.

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

Derge is generally quiet. Peak visits occur during Tibetan festivals and summer months. Weekdays in May–June or September–October are least crowded.

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

Basic toilets and small eateries in town
Local shops for souvenirs and snacks
Rest areas near major cultural sites

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

Main streets and Printing House are accessible for children and elderly, though some monasteries and hilly areas may be difficult for disabled visitors.