Tagong Grassland (塔公草原) is situated in the northwest of Kangding City, 113 kilometers away, in the Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Sichuan Province, along the sides of the Sichuan-Tibet Highway. In Tibetan, “Tagong” means “a place loved by Bodhisattva.”
Nestled against the renowned Yala Holy Mountain, the grassland boasts a flat terrain, abundant water, and lush grass, providing a picturesque setting for herds of cattle and sheep. Scattered across the verdant meadows are the Tagong Monastery and Muya Golden Pagoda, surrounded by the traditional Tibetan tents of local herdsmen, creating a harmonious landscape characteristic of the Tibetan plateau.
Annually, Tagong Grassland hosts 1 to 2 traditional horse racing festivals. During these events, herdsmen don festive attire and converge from all directions to celebrate the traditional festivities. The racecourse witnesses the galloping of spirited horses, thrilling equestrian performances, and bursts of applause, cheers, and whistles, creating an atmosphere of joyous celebration on the high-altitude Tibetan plateau.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Tagong Grasslands
- Video about Tagong Grassland
- Useful Tips from Genuine Reviews
- Other Attractions in Kangding
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | About 2 hours |
| Ticket Price | The admission is free. The cost of horse riding ranges from 80 to 200 RMB. The cost of renting a tent is about 200 RMB. |
| Opening Hours | 24 hours a day |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0836-2825570 |
Location and Transportation
Tagong Grasslands is situated in the western part of Sichuan province, China. It lies within the Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, which is known for its stunning landscapes and strong Tibetan cultural influences. The grasslands are nestled amidst the towering peaks of the eastern Tibetan Plateau, making it a part of the picturesque and mountainous region of western China.
To reach Tagong Grasslands, travelers often start their journey from the city of Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province. From Chengdu, they embark on a scenic drive through winding mountain roads, passing quaint villages and lush valleys before arriving at the vast and captivating grasslands.
Highlights of Tagong Grasslands
Yala Snow Mountain
Yala Snow Mountain, one of the renowned large snow mountains in the Kangba region, holds a significant place as one of the Four Sacred Mountains in Tibetan culture, as recorded in the famous Tibetan epic “King Gesar.” Ancient Tibetan scriptures describe Yala Snow Mountain as the “Second Shambhala,” a mythical realm believed to be the abode of deities – a utopian destination in the minds of the Tibetan people. With an elevation of 5,820 meters, the summit of Yala Snow Mountain remains perennially blanketed in pristine white snow, surrounded by swirling clouds and mist. Gazing upon the snow-capped peaks of Yala is considered a fortunate and auspicious sight, embodying the spiritual significance attributed to this majestic mountain.
Tibetan Culture
In the Tagong Grasslands, the Tibetan culture weaves a rich tapestry that adds an unparalleled charm to the region. The local communities are predominantly Tibetan, preserving their age-old traditions and nomadic way of life. Visitors are warmly welcomed into yak-hair tents, where they can experience authentic Tibetan hospitality and cuisine. Colorful prayer flags flutter in the breeze, and the melodious sound of chanting monks fills the air around the Tagong Monastery. Traditional festivals like horse racing and Tibetan opera showcase the vibrant spirit of the culture. The deep-rooted spirituality and warm camaraderie of the Tibetan people create an unforgettable cultural immersion in Tagong Grasslands.
Tagong Monastery
Tagong Monastery is a prominent Sakya (Sutrayana) sect monastery in Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. It stands as one of the sacred pilgrimage sites for Tibetan Buddhists in the Kangba region. Renowned for the legendary “Zhituo” Stupa housed within its stupa hall, the monastery derives its name from this revered structure, also known as “Zhituo Sangzhulin” (meaning Achieving Liberation at First Sight). The monastery’s origins are intertwined with the construction of the stupa. Over time, numerous eminent monks and benefactors have visited the monastery to contribute to the construction of stupas, resulting in a vast forest with over 100 stupas. Notable among them are the White Stupa in the east, Yellow Stupa in the south, Red Stupa in the west, and Green Stupa in the north, collectively forming a majestic and solemn stupa landscape.
Outdoor Activities
Tagong Grasslands offer an array of thrilling outdoor activities that cater to adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The vast open meadows and rolling hills are perfect for hiking, providing scenic trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints. Horse trekking offers a unique way to explore the expansive landscape while experiencing the nomadic culture. Camping under the starry skies amidst the tranquil surroundings is a memorable experience for those seeking solitude and connection with nature. Additionally, birdwatching allows visitors to spot various avian species that inhabit the grasslands. Whether hiking, horse trekking, camping, or birdwatching, the outdoor activities in Tagong Grasslands promise unforgettable encounters with the pristine wilderness.
Video about Tagong Grassland
Useful Tips from Genuine Reviews
Photography Considerations: The grassland is described as a sloping area, and the reviewer feels that it may not be the best spot for capturing impressive photos. Additionally, there is an entrance fee, and the observation deck, while present, may not offer better views than the open grassy areas along the roadside.
Horse Riding Opportunities: Upon reaching the entrance, many locals with horses may approach visitors offering horse riding experiences. The price is mentioned to be around 100-120 yuan per person, including a 20 yuan entrance ticket. Bargaining is possible, with the reviewer negotiating a total of 150 yuan for two people.
Beware of Photographers’ Attitude: Several reviews mention that the photographers at Tagong Grassland can be lazy, uninterested, and impatient. They may take a large number of photos in a short time, providing little opportunity for adjustments or posing. The photographers may not be helpful in guiding individuals to pose correctly or notify them if something obstructs the shot. It is suggested that visitors be aware of this potential issue.
Exploring Alternative Spots: If the main grassland area is not satisfying, consider exploring other areas along the roadside that may offer better and more natural views. Sometimes, the less crowded and more open spots can provide a more authentic experience.
