Tongren (known as Repkong in Tibetan) is a small and friendly town home to a monastery and a number of Tibetan monks and Hui shop owners – both of whom reside here because of the number of monasteries found in the valley.
The villages directly outside of the city are famous (and have been for centuries) for producing some of Tibet’s best thangkas and painted statues. The city’s main monastery, Wutun Si, allows visitors to meet the local artists and purchase a religious painting or two.
However, before you arrive and plan to shop, it is important to note that you will not be able to change any money here. You will need to make sure that you have plenty of yen before arriving as there are no banks.
You cannot visit the city without visiting the surrounding villages. They are home to a mix of Tibetans and Tu and have a long and detailed history. Tongren is a beautiful city, but the surrounding villages are even more picturesque and should not be missed.
Travel to Tongren - getting there
The road to and from Xiahe is extremely beautiful and there are daily buses available to and from each city, taking about 1 hour, 30 minutes. It is also possible to reach Tongren by bus from Xining, which is home to the nearest international airport. Journeys are, however, long.
Tongren attractions
Dongshan Temple: located in the heart of the city, this stunning temple is a must-see. It is home to many monks and is a working temple. It dates back hundreds of years and is ornately decorated.
Side trips from Tongren
Surrounding villages: the villages directly outside the city are a must-visit. They are beautiful and full of cultural wonders and the locals are extremely friendly. Mount Fanjingshan National Nature Reserve: a stunning nature reserve home to an abundance of wildlife and plant life.
In brief
What to do: tour the city, visit the monastery.
Best time to go: during spring or autumn (April to May or September to October).
How long? A day or less is enough to see Tongren. Tidbit: Tongren is home to a mix of tribes people and Tibetan monks.