The Sacred Healing Valley: A Pilgrimage to Dezhong Hot Spring

A Hidden Sanctuary in the Valley

Deep within the rugged folds of the mountains in Maizhokunggar County, about 140 kilometers northeast of Lhasa, lies the legendary Dezhong Hot Spring. Situated at an impressive altitude of 4,590 meters, this sacred site is nestled in a narrow, lush valley protected by steep cliffs and frequented by larks,. Unlike the luxurious resorts found elsewhere, Dezhong offers a raw, authentic connection to the earth and Tibetan culture. It has a history spanning over 1,400 years and is revered as one of the "Four Great Holy Springs" of Tibet,. For travelers and pilgrims alike, Dezhong is not merely a place to bathe; it is a spiritual sanctuary where the healing powers of nature and the blessings of the divine converge,.

The Legacy of Guru Rinpoche

1.The sanctity of Dezhong Hot: Spring is deeply intertwined with Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche), the great master who brought Buddhism to Tibet. Legend holds that in the 8th century, Master Padmasambhava meditated in the caves behind the spring and opened this thermal source with his magical powers to heal the suffering of sentient beings,. The water is believed to possess miraculous medicinal properties, capable of curing various ailments such as gastritis, rheumatism, and skin diseases,. This belief draws thousands of Tibetans to the valley, especially during the "Gamajiri" (bathing festival) in the seventh month of the Tibetan calendar, when families set up tents and stay for a week to undergo traditional medicinal bath treatments,.

A Rustic and Authentic Experience

The hot spring facility retains a primitive and charming character. The pools are open-air, lined with cobblestones and surrounded by simple wooden structures that separate the male and female bathing areas,. The water temperature typically ranges around 40-50 degrees Celsius, fed by natural geysers that bubble up from the earth,. One of the most mystical aspects of Dezhong is the presence of the "Little Green Snakes" (Hot Spring Snakes). These creatures are considered guardians of the spring or incarnations of dragon deities. They are known to be harmless and are often seen swimming near the bathers, adding a layer of mystery and reverence to the experience,.

The Dezhong Nunnery and Zhigongti Temple

The hot spring settlement is built around the Dezhong Temple (Dezhong Nunnery), a serene monastery of the Zhigong Kagyu sect. The red-robed nuns living here lead a disciplined life of meditation and service, and their presence infuses the valley with a sense of peace and order,. Just 7 kilometers up the winding mountain road lies the famous Zhigongti Temple (Drigung Til Monastery), renowned for its spectacular location on a steep cliff and its significance as a major site for sky burials,. A visit to Dezhong often combines the physical relaxation of the hot spring with the spiritual exploration of these two important religious sites,.

A Journey of Purification

2.Visiting Dezhong Hot: Spring is a journey into the heart of Tibetan folk culture. The valley is isolated and tranquil, far removed from the hustle of the modern world. The sight of steam rising against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks, the sound of prayer wheels turning, and the genuine hospitality of the local Tibetan guesthouses create an atmosphere of profound relaxation,. Whether you are seeking relief from physical pain or simply wishing to wash away the dust of the mortal world in a "fairyland on the plateau," Dezhong offers a unique and unforgettable experience,.