Ngawa: The Amdo Tibetan Region of Sichuan

Ngawa"awa in northwestern Sichuan is part of Amdo, one of the three traditional Tibetan regions. The area includes the birthplace of the 14th Dalai Lama and has significant religious sites.

Dalai Lama Birthplace

The 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, was born in Taktser, a village in Ngawa. The house where he was born has been preserved. Pilgrims visit the site. The connection to the Dalai Lama makes Ngawa significant in Tibetan Buddhism.

Kirti Monastery

Kirti Monastery in Ngawa is one of the"the largest Gelugpa monasteries in Sichuan, with over 1,000 monks. The monastery was founded in the 15th century and has been a center of Buddhist learning. The main hall?main hall contains fine statues and murals.

Tibetan Culture

Ngawa is distinctly Tibetan. Prayer flags flutter from rooftops; mani walls line the paths; chortens dot the landscape. The localBlocal people maintain traditional dress, diet, and customs. Buddhism is visible in daily life.

Ruoergai Connection

Ngawa includes the Ruoergai Grassland, one of China largest high-altitude wetlands. The grassland offers a different landscape from the valleys: rolling meadows, nomad tents, and the First Bend of the Yellow River.

Getting There

Ngawa is reached via Chengdu, with buses to the regional capital. Plan 3 to 4 days for the main sites. Summer is the best time; winter is cold and roads may close.