Dege is one of the remotest towns in west Sichuan Province. It lies amid huge, sparse mountains on the northern route of the Sichuan-Tibet Highway and is one of the least-explored regions of China.
Dege itself is an ugly town with newer, large Chinese fortress-like buildings alongside more traditional Tibetan abodes. The big appeal are the views of the valley and the surrounding villages, although getting here is arduous and primarily by bus.
The old part of Dege is the easiest on the eye. It sits on a hillside behind a large temple and has great views of the valley. The mid-15th century Dege Chen monastery is the Dege architectural highlight and the Dege Buddhist Scriptures Printing House is also worth a look.
Farther afield to the south of Dege are many mountain monasteries involving various hikes, from one to four days.
Getting There & Away
Dege is best accessed from the town of Kangding, an 8-hour bus ride over bumpy, precipitous roads. It is a two-day journey from Chengdu all up, which is another 8 or 9 hours from Kangding. Chengdu Suhangliu International Airport is one of China’s busiest, 400kms to the east.
Things to Do
Dege Attractions
- Dege Gon Chen Monastery
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A huge monastery which hails from the 1440s and has amazing views of the valley.
Side trips from Dege
- Dege hiking
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There are many monasteries that lie on good hiking trails from town, ranging from one day to four days long.
Events
- Dege Yangle Festival
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Monks leave the confines of their monasteries in early july to read scriptures, dance, and perform operas.