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With Ben Cubbage ... Welcome to Langmusi - A Serene Tibetan Village in GanSu Province Introduction Top Attractions Activities Local Culture Local Cuisine Visitor Tips Getting There Introduction Langmusi, also known as Taktsang Lhamo in Tibetan, is a picturesque village nestled in the Tibetan Grasslands, straddling the border between GanSu and SiChuan provinces. Known for its serene beauty, Langmusi is a spiritual haven and an important cultural hub for the Tibetan people. The village is surrounded by rolling grasslands, majestic mountains, and crystal-clear rivers, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Langmusi is famous for its Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant Tibetan culture. It serves as a gateway to the vast Tibetan Plateau and is a popular destination for travelers seeking peace, spirituality, and a deeper connection with nature. Despite its remote location, Langmusi has retained its traditional charm and offers visitors a unique glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Tibetan people. Top Attractions Sertri Monastery Sertri Monastery, also known as Taktsang Lhamo Kirti Gompa, is one of the two main monasteries in Langmusi. Located on the northern side of the village, this monastery is an important center for Tibetan Buddhism and is home to hundreds of monks. The monastery's stunning architecture, intricate murals, and peaceful atmosphere make it a must-visit for anyone interested in Tibetan culture and spirituality. Visitors can attend prayer sessions, observe daily rituals, and explore the monastery's various halls and chapels. Kerti Monastery Kerti Monastery, also known as Kirti Gompa, is the second major monastery in Langmusi. Situated on the southern side of the village, Kerti Monastery is slightly smaller but equally significant. The monastery is known for its vibrant religious festivals, where monks and locals gather to celebrate with colorful processions, music, and dance. The surrounding area is also ideal for short hikes, offering panoramic views of the village and the surrounding grasslands. Namo Gorge Namo Gorge is a breathtaking natural wonder located just outside Langmusi. This narrow gorge is carved by the Bailong River and is flanked by towering cliffs and dense forests. A walk through the gorge offers a peaceful retreat into nature, with the sound of the river, the chirping of birds, and the scent of wildflowers filling the air. The gorge is also home to several meditation caves used by monks, adding to its spiritual significance. Sky Burial Site The Sky Burial Site in Langmusi is a unique and culturally significant place where traditional Tibetan sky burials are conducted. This ancient funerary practice involves placing the deceased on a mountaintop to be consumed by vultures, symbolizing the cycle of life and death in Tibetan Buddhism. While tourists are generally not allowed to observe the ceremonies out of respect, the site is an important aspect of Tibetan culture and spirituality, and its location offers a serene view of the surrounding landscape. Activities Hiking and Trekking: Langmusi is a paradise for hikers and trekkers, with numerous trails leading through the Tibetan Grasslands, mountains, and valleys. Popular routes include hikes to Namo Gorge, visits to meditation caves, and treks to nearby Tibetan nomad camps. Horseback Riding: Experience the traditional Tibetan way of life by exploring the grasslands on horseback. Local guides offer horseback riding tours that take you through scenic landscapes and offer insights into the nomadic culture of the region. Cultural Tours: Immerse yourself in Tibetan culture by visiting local monasteries, attending prayer sessions, and learning about Buddhist rituals and traditions. Cultural tours often include visits to both Sertri and Kerti Monasteries, as well as interactions with local monks. Photography: Langmusi's stunning landscapes, traditional Tibetan architecture, and vibrant culture make it a photographer's dream. Capture the beauty of the grasslands, the serenity of the monasteries, and the daily life of the Tibetan people. Stargazing: Due to its remote location and high altitude, Langmusi offers exceptional stargazing opportunities. On clear nights, the sky is filled with countless stars, making it an ideal place to connect with the cosmos. Local Culture Langmusi is deeply rooted in Tibetan culture, and visitors to the village will have the opportunity to experience the rich traditions, spirituality, and way of life of the Tibetan people. The village is home to both Tibetans and Hui Muslims, and the blend of cultures adds to the unique charm of the area. Tibetan Buddhism plays a central role in the daily life of the villagers, and the two main monasteries, Sertri and Kerti, are integral to the spiritual and cultural fabric of Langmusi. Festivals and religious ceremonies are celebrated with great enthusiasm, and visitors may have the chance to witness colorful processions, traditional music, and sacred dances. The Tibetan nomadic culture is also prevalent in the surrounding grasslands, where nomads live in traditional tents and herd yaks and sheep. Visitors can learn about the nomadic way of life, including their customs, clothing, and food, by visiting nomad camps or interacting with local families. Local Cuisine The cuisine in Langmusi is a reflection of its Tibetan heritage, with hearty dishes that are well-suited to the high-altitude environment. Some must-try dishes include: Yak Butter Tea: A traditional Tibetan drink made from yak butter, salt, and tea leaves. It has a unique flavor and is often consumed to provide warmth and energy in the cold climate. Tsampa: A staple food in Tibetan cuisine, tsampa is made from roasted barley flour and is often mixed with yak butter tea to form a dough-like consistency. It is a versatile dish that can be eaten at any time of day. Yak Meat Dishes: Yak meat is a common ingredient in Tibetan cuisine, and it is often used in stews, dumplings, and stir-fries. The meat is flavorful and rich, making it a popular choice among locals and visitors alike. Momos: Tibetan dumplings filled with meat or vegetables and served with a spicy dipping sauce. Momos are a popular snack and are often enjoyed with tea. Thukpa: A hearty noodle soup made with meat, vegetables, and sometimes yak butter. Thukpa is a warming dish that is perfect for the cool climate of Langmusi. Visitor Tips Altitude Awareness: Langmusi is located at an altitude of over 3,300 meters (10,827 feet), so it's important to be aware of altitude sickness. Take time to acclimatize, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous activity in the first few days. Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Langmusi is from May to October when the weather is milder and the grasslands are lush and green. Winter can be extremely cold, with heavy snowfall making travel difficult. Respect Local Customs: Langmusi is a deeply spiritual place, so it's important to respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly, particularly when visiting monasteries, and ask for permission before taking photos of people or religious sites. Stay on Designated Paths: When exploring the grasslands and surrounding nature, stick to designated paths to avoid damaging the fragile ecosystem and to ensure your safety. Language: While Mandarin is spoken in Langmusi, many locals, particularly older residents and monks, speak Tibetan. Learning a few basic phrases in Tibetan can enhance your experience and help you connect with the local community. Getting There Langmusi is located in a remote area, but it is accessible by several means: By Air: The nearest airport is Xiahe/Gannan Airport, which is about 90 km (56 miles) from Langmusi. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to the village. Flights to Xiahe/Gannan Airport are available from major cities such as ChengDu and Xi'An. By Bus: Buses run regularly from nearby towns such as HeZuO, XiaHe, and LuQu to Langmusi. The bus ride offers scenic views of the Tibetan Plateau and is an affordable option for reaching the village. By Car: Renting a car or hiring a private driver is a convenient way to reach Langmusi, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding areas. The drive from HeZuO to Langmusi takes about 4 hours and offers stunning views of the grasslands and mountains. By Train: The nearest major train station is in Lanzhou, GanSu's capital. From Lanzhou, you can take a bus or hire a car to reach Langmusi. The journey from Lanzhou takes approximately 8-10 hours.

HuangShan (Yellow Mountain) lies in AnHui province.Highly worn granite summits peak out from a sea of clouds, dotted with ancient pines, have been an inspiration to artists and philosophers for many centuries ...

An fascinating look inside the massive campus ... And also a quick look at BaiDu's campus in BeiJing ... And TenCent (WeChat)'s HQ in ShenZhen ... Bonus films ...

With Valeriy Blank ... Visitor Guide to XianYang Introduction to XianYang XianYang (咸阳), located in ShaanXi Province, is one of China's most historically significant cities. As the ancient capital of the Qin Dynasty (221–206 BCE), XianYang played a pivotal role in Chinese history and culture. Today, it is a vibrant city that blends its rich past with modern development, offering visitors a unique mix of historical sites, cultural experiences, and natural beauty. Top Attractions in XianYang Maoling Mausoleum (茂陵) - The tomb of Emperor Wu of the Han Dynasty, surrounded by smaller tombs of his concubines and generals. The site features impressive stone carvings and statues. Qianling Mausoleum (乾陵) - The joint burial site of Emperor Gaozong and Empress Wu Zetian, the only female emperor in Chinese history. The site is known for its grand scale and the famous "Silent Statues" lining the Sacred Way. XianYang Museum (咸阳博物馆) - A treasure trove of artifacts from the Qin and Han Dynasties, including pottery, jade, and bronze ware. The museum provides a deep dive into the region's history. ZhangLiang Temple (张良庙) - A temple dedicated to ZhangLiang, a famous strategist and statesman of the early Han Dynasty. The temple is set in a serene environment with beautiful architecture. FengHe River Scenic Area (沣河风景区) - A picturesque area along the FengHe River, perfect for leisurely walks, boating, and enjoying the natural scenery. Local Cuisine XianYang is known for its delicious ShaanXi cuisine, which features bold flavors and hearty dishes. Some must-try foods include: BiangBiang Noodles (BiangBiang Mian) - Thick, hand-pulled noodles served with a savory sauce, often topped with vegetables and meat. RouJiaMo (肉夹馍) - Often referred to as the "Chinese hamburger," this dish consists of braised pork stuffed inside a flatbread. YangRou PaoMo (羊肉泡馍) - A hearty lamb soup with crumbled flatbread, a specialty of ShaanXi Province. LiangPi (凉皮) - Cold, chewy noodles made from wheat or rice flour, served with a spicy and tangy sauce. Getting Around XianYang XianYang is well-connected by public transportation, making it easy to explore the city and its surroundings. Options include: Buses: The city has an extensive bus network that connects major attractions and neighborhoods. Taxis: Taxis are readily available and affordable for getting around the city. Bicycles: Renting a bicycle is a great way to explore XianYang at your own pace, especially along the FengHe River. High-Speed Rail: XianYang is just a short ride from Xi'An via high-speed rail, making it easy to combine visits to both cities. Best Time to Visit The best time to visit XianYang is during the spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. These seasons are ideal for exploring outdoor attractions like the FengHe River Scenic Area and the ancient mausoleums. Tips for Visitors Language: Mandarin is the primary language spoken in XianYang. Learning a few basic phrases can be helpful, especially in more rural areas. Currency: The local currency is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels and restaurants, but it's a good idea to carry cash for smaller establishments. Etiquette: When visiting historical sites, dress modestly and be respectful of local customs and traditions. Health and Safety: XianYang is generally a safe city, but it's always a good idea to take standard precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and staying aware of your surroundings. Conclusion XianYang is a city steeped in history and culture, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and explore the legacy of ancient China. From its majestic mausoleums to its vibrant local cuisine, XianYang is a destination that promises a rich and rewarding experience. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a food lover, or simply looking to explore a lesser-known gem in ShaanXi Province, XianYang is sure to leave a lasting impression.

In a chance discovery, an entire army of terracotta warriors was found. The first emperor of China had them created and buried with him, to protect him in the afterlife. Construction of this mausoleum began in 246 BC and is believed to have taken about 700,000 workers and craftsmen 38 years to complete.

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