Gyantse, the Third Largest Settlement in Tibet

Gyantse may be a small dusty town but it is the third largest settlement in Tibet and famous for its carpets. Usually only visited by people en-route to Nepal it really is well worth making a stop over.

Originally the capital of a 14^th century kingdom the remains of Gyantse's old Dzong (fort) watches over the town.

Sights

The Kumbum

Open: 9am - 7pm Mon-Sat (closed noon - 3pm)

Built around 1440 the Kumbum is a magnificent six-story chorten. It is honeycombed with small chapel and is constructed in a style that is unique to Tibet.

When visiting the Kumbum you will take a clock -wise route that leads past chapels that are packed full with statuary and decorated with murals from the 14^th century. In fact Kumbum literally means 'a hundred thousand images.'

When you arrive at the fourth floor you will see pairs of painted eyes looking out in each of the cardinal directions. This is to signify the all-seeing eyes of Buddha,.

The dome of the chorten is reached by the staircase that is in the eastern chapel Once in the dome you will be rewarded with some dramatic views.

The Pelkor Chode Monastery

Open: 9am - 7pm Mon-Sat (closed noon - 3pm)

The Pelkor Chode Monastery was constructed 20 years after the Kumbum and was actually designed for all the local Buddhist sects to use.

There are two thrones in the murky Assembly Hall, one for the Sakya Lama and the other for the Dalai Lama.

There is a statue of the Historical Buddha, Sakyamuni, at the back of the hall in the main chapel.

The Pelkor Chode Monastery also has some impressive decorations on its wooden roof.

Events

Early June in Gyantse there is an archery and horse racing festival.

Should you wish to attend to check the dates as they have a habit of changing.

Getting There

Minibuses to Gyantse leave from the front of Shigatse's main bus station daily between 10am and 8pm. Cost is approximately Y25 and the trip takes 1½ hours.

Or you could grab a taxi for Y25 and the journey time is cut down to one hour.

If you are in Lhasa then minibuses depart alternate days from the bus station.

Travel permits are required.

Once in Gyantse it is easy to get around on foot but if you do need them there are taxis. A fun way to get around is by rickshaw. Be sure to negotiate the price before you head out to your destination.

Source: China - Eye Witness Travel Guides