Longdeng Prairie: The Velvet Carpet of King Gesar

The Pearl of King Gesar

1.Located in Daofu: County, Garzê Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, Longdeng Prairie (also known as "Gesartang") is a place where history, legend, and breathtaking natural beauty converge. Unlike the rugged and undulating terrain found in many parts of the Kham region, Longdeng Prairie is renowned for its remarkably flat and vast surface, resembling a giant, emerald-green velvet carpet spread across the plateau. Legend has it that this was once the camping ground of the legendary King Gesar, the hero of the Tibetan epic. It is said that when King Gesar stationed his troops here, he placed his jewel-encrusted hat on the ground, and the land miraculously flattened to accommodate his camp. The name "Longdeng" implies a "stool" or "seat" in Tibetan, symbolizing the place where the King sat.

A Landscape of Velvet and Flowers

2.The geography of: Longdeng is unique among the high-altitude grasslands of Western Sichuan. Surrounded by rolling mountains, the prairie itself stretches out in a vast, smooth expanse that is perfect for horseback riding and leisurely hiking. In the summer (July and August), the green grass is dotted with a kaleidoscope of wildflowers in red, yellow, blue, and purple, creating a vibrant tapestry under the deep blue highland sky. Amidst this sea of grass lies the Pearl Sea (Zuhai), a freshwater lake that sparkles like a gem. According to folklore, this lake was formed from an emerald lost by King Gesar's wife, Zhuoma, adding a layer of romance to the tranquil waters.

The Historic Huiyuan Monastery

Standing prominently on the prairie is the magnificent Huiyuan Monastery (Gartar Monastery). Built in 1729 during the Qing Dynasty under the order of the Yongzheng Emperor, this temple holds a unique position in Tibetan history. It was constructed to provide a safe sanctuary for the 7th Dalai Lama, Kelzang Gyatso, during a period of unrest in Tibet. The 11th Dalai Lama was also born nearby. Because it was funded by the imperial court, the architecture of Huiyuan Monastery is a rare and striking blend of Han Chinese palace style and Tibetan temple aesthetics. Its massive perimeter walls and golden roofs contrast sharply with the surrounding open wilderness, making it a focal point for both photographers and pilgrims.

A Serene Escape on the Tea Horse Road

3.Historically a vital stop on the Tea: Horse Road, Longdeng Prairie today offers a serene escape for travelers seeking solitude away from the more crowded tourist spots. Whether you are exploring the "Washing Horse Pond" where King Gesar's troops allegedly tended their steeds, or simply sitting by the Huiyuan Temple watching the clouds drift over the golden roofs, Longdeng offers a profound sense of peace. It is a place where you can immerse yourself in the "Highland Aesthetics" of the Kham region, experiencing the harmony between the nomadic way of life and the spiritual devotion that permeates the land.