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China Destination Guide - Gyantse

Tibet's fourth largest city sitting at 3,977m, Gyantse has traditionally guarded the southern approaches to the Tsangpo Valley and Lhasa. Extensively ransacked by the British in 1904 and the Chinese in 1954 and 1959, life is back to relative normality these days and being on the Friendship Highway from Lhasa to Kathmandu, the city attracts many travellers who come to see the Gyantse Kumbum, the largest chorten in Tibet.

What there is to see...

The Gyantse Dzong, or fortress, is the highest point in the city and well worth the climb for the view although there isn't so much to see of the fortress once up there. The 500 soldiers of the fort held the British force of Younghusband out for 4 days in 1904 and since then Gyantse has often been referred to as "Hero City."
The 35 meter high Gyantse Kumbum is the largest in Tibet and was built in 1427. Inside are countless small chapels with stunning murals.
The Pelkor Chode Monastery is a sprawling complex containing many paintings and statues as well as being a fascinating place to wander around.

Best time to visit Gyantse

April to October are the best months. Winters are cold but exceptionally dry. Saying that, there are less tourists in the winter months which can make the experience more authentic.

Best reason to visit Gyantse

The Pelkor Chode Monastery is a big draw but we like the climb up to the top of the fort for the amazing views that can be had rather than the fort itself.

Our last word on Gyantse

Gyantse is a worthy stop whether as part of a couple of days side trip from Lhasa or as a stop on the Friendship Highway route to Everest and Nepal.