The Stunning yet Overlooked Wonders of Western Sichuan

Mountains, primeval forests, lakes, grasslands, and religious cultures are the signature attractions of the Sichuan-Tibet region, drawing swarms of domestic and international tourists. Ganzi Prefecture’s ‘Tagong Grassland,’ due to its vast expanse and the cultural significance from the story of Princess Wencheng, has become a popular local attraction. Tagong Monastery and Muya Monastery adjacent to the grassland represent the distinctive local architecture. Their red walls and golden roofs, set against the backdrop of surrounding snow-capped mountains, are as picturesque as Monet’s paintings.

From the slopes near Muya Monastery, one can overlook Gerima Village across Kangding, as seen in Image 1. Though lacking the grandeur of Seda, the well-arranged Tibetan villages, rich and vibrant colors, and the simple, understated cultural atmosphere evokes a sense of longing and cleanses the soul. Photography here provides numerous unexpected delights.

During our visit, we encountered children doing business on the scenic hillsides, persistently asking if we wanted to ride horses. The prices were very fair, ranging from 15 to 20 yuan, depending on your negotiation with them. The innocent and cheerful demeanor of these children created precious memories I hadn’t encountered in a long time.

The reason for recommending this place is its minimal commercialization and rather primitive state. With fewer tourists, beautiful scenery, it’s ideal for honeymoon trips and graduation travels.

Clothing: I visited in March, and it was a bit cold, especially when it snowed. I suggest wearing thicker clothing: either padded jackets or light down jackets.

Altitude: Approximately 4000 meters, so mild altitude sickness might occur. It’s not advisable for most people to engage in vigorous activities on the grassland/slopes. For those who can’t tolerate altitude sickness, carrying a few oxygen canisters is recommended; inhaling oxygen helps ease discomfort.

Transportation: Self-driving is recommended. The area is quite spacious, and parking is not a concern. You can search for Muya Monastery on navigation systems.

Photography: Capture images similar to Image 1 on the slopes, including the background of Gerima Village. You might consider renting Tibetan clothing; it’s generally available near the lodges in Tagong Grassland.