Let's set off to Kangding, a delightful city nestled in the mountains of the Garzê Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, in Sichuan Province, China. Known as the "City of Love" in popular Chinese culture, Kangding is a captivating blend of Tibetan and Han Chinese influences, brimming with natural beauty, cultural richness, and a soothing pace of life. So put on your hiking boots and tune your ears to the melody of Tibetan love songs – we're heading to Kangding!
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Trip.com | -9% | |
| 2. Cheap | Agoda | -7% | |
| 3. Average | Booking.com | -2% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Expedia | 4% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Hotels.com | 8% |
Downtown Kangding: In the heart of Kangding, you'll find the city's vibrant energy and convenient access to various amenities. From modern hotels to charming guesthouses, this area is ideal for first-time visitors.
Nanwu Lamasery Area: Near the sacred Nanwu Lamasery, this serene location offers guesthouses and homestays that allow you to embrace tranquility and spiritual connection.
Paoma Mountain Foot: Close to the popular attraction of Paoma Mountain, accommodations here offer fantastic views and easy access to the starting point for the mountain trek.
Mugecuo Scenic Area: Ideal for nature lovers, staying in this area brings you closer to the breathtaking Mugecuo Scenic Area. Various guesthouses and lodges are available for the adventurous.
Xinduqiao Town: About an hour away from Kangding, Xinduqiao is a picturesque town known as the "Paradise of Photographers". Stay here for incredible landscapes and a slice of local life.
Paoma Mountain: Take a horse ride or hike up this famed mountain, known for its gorgeous panoramic views and the romantic legend of a hero’s quest for love.
Nanwu Lamasery: This grand monastery is an important site for Tibetan Buddhists. You can experience the peaceful aura, observe religious rituals, and see exquisite Tibetan thangka paintings.
Mugecuo Scenic Area: Comprising of hot springs, forests, waterfalls, and the largest glacier-dammed lake in northwest Sichuan, this area is a paradise for nature lovers.
Anjue Lamasery: A magnificent monastery in Kangding, it houses beautiful murals and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Xinduqiao Town: A treat for photographers, this small town presents idyllic landscapes, with an enchanting mix of rivers, bridges, Tibetan villages, and pastures.
Yak Meat Hot Pot: This traditional Tibetan dish is a must-try in Kangding. Yak meat is lean, tender, and is often cooked with a variety of fresh local vegetables.
Tsampa: This is a staple Tibetan food made of barley flour, yak butter, and tea. It’s often rolled into balls and eaten for breakfast or lunch.
Yak Yogurt: Known for its creamy texture and slightly sour taste, the yak yogurt in Kangding is refreshingly natural and often sweetened with honey.
Yak Butter Tea: A distinctive Tibetan beverage, it's made by boiling tea leaves, adding yak butter, and churning until it blends. It's a perfect drink for the high-altitude chill.
Tibetan Sausages: These are usually made from yak meat or pork, seasoned with local spices and air-dried. They're often grilled and serve as a tasty street snack.