[2025 Sertar Attraction] Travel Guide for Five Sciences Buddhist Academy (Updated Mar)

"The Buddhist Kingdom in the Sky, Seda on Earth." It's not the houses that are beautiful, but the faith! You must take your loved one to Seda! As the snowflakes fall, the red ocean is instantly covered in white, red and white intertwined, like a dreamland. The snow falls silently, but adds a touch of holiness to Seda, each snowflake seems to be a blessing, gently kissing this land full of faith. The distant snow-capped mountains are faintly visible in the snow, contrasting with the red houses of Seda, forming a beautiful picture. In the snow, Seda is as quiet as a paradise at the end of the world, and every step seems to be on the road to the pure land of the soul, calling people to come and feel its unparalleled beauty and holiness.

📍Seda, a place lacking oxygen but not faith| Simply because I saw a photo of those red houses, I longed to go there.. Finally! I packed my backpack, set off on a journey, to find the pure land hidden deep within my heart. 📍The full name of the Buddhist Academy is Seda Larung Gar Five Sciences Buddhist Academy, with an average altitude of 3900 meters. All those living in the red houses are practicing students. Each person has their own house, living a simple life, dressed plainly, without material desires, but with bright eyes and peaceful smiles. 📸Viewing spots Seda Mandala City: Located on the top of the mountain of Seda Buddhist Academy, with three levels, where you can turn the prayer wheels 📸Buddhist Academy Viewing Platform: You can get there by walking along the road to the left of the Mandala City, where you can overlook the panoramic view of Seda Buddhist Academy, a great place for taking photos Buddhist Academy Long Staircase: Walking along the staircase allows you to closely admire the red houses Yao Wang Mountain Grassland: There are many chubby marmots on the mountain, and you can feed them 📍Warm tips On the mountainside and riverside, you can see many colorful Buddha statues and scriptures, do not step on them, and do not take them away! Seda has many religious buildings, such as temples and stupas, which should not be climbed, nor should you walk around them in a counterclockwise direction! Do not touch the heads of local children, as only living Buddhas are allowed to do that Without permission, do not randomly take photos of local Tibetans, monks, and the interior of temples It's very cold on the mountain, so wear a thick coat or down jacket You can bring red accessories, such as scarves, shawls, etc., for taking photos, which results in good pictures ⛳️Travel Route DAY1: Chengdu-Kangding-Red Sea-Zheduo Mountain-Xinduqiao DAY2: Xinduqiao-Mosika Park-Longdeng Grassland-Seda DAY3: Seda-Seda Half-Day Tour-Yala Snow Mountain Viewing Platform-Danba DAY4: Danba-Four Girls Mountain-Chengdu

...it's just too beautiful!!! When the boundless red comes into view, your heart will be deeply touched. This is Seda, a place full of mystery and the power of faith. Before you pack your bags and embark on this spiritual journey, take a look at this carefully compiled guide to help you have a perfect trip to Seda. Seda Larung Gar Buddhist Academy, the largest Tibetan Buddhist academy in the world Seda Larung Gar Buddhist Academy, a pure land of Buddha, is located in Luoruo Town, Seda County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province. Countless crimson-red monk houses densely cover the hillside, creating a magnificent and spectacular scene. Reservation method Make sure to book 48 hours in advance on the "Larunggou Jingou" mini program. There are only two booking slots per day, at 10:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Make sure to book on time to avoid missing out. The origin of the red houses Initially, newly arrived practitioners, in order to solve the accommodation problem, used local materials and built simple wooden sheds on the hillside. To give these dwellings sacred meaning, they painted them all red. Over time, red became the main color of this land, and the red houses became a unique symbol of Seda. Photography tips Corridor shots: The corridors on both sides of the academy are excellent photo spots. Standing in the corridor, you can take photos of yourself with the red houses, and also capture the scattered red monk houses in the distance, creating a photo with a rich sense of layering. Back mountain view: If you want to overlook the entire Seda, you need to challenge yourself with a hike up the back mountain, which has an altitude of 4,300 meters. Although the process is somewhat difficult, when you reach the top of the mountain, the red houses all over the mountain against the blue sky and white clouds look like a beautiful painting unfolding before your eyes. Every shot is a masterpiece. When night falls, the starry river is bright, and the dotted lights in the red houses make it feel like you've entered the dreamy cartoon world of Hayao Miyazaki. It's extremely stunning. Itinerary planning D1: Chengdu - Zhuokeji Tusi Guanzhai - Xisuo Folk Houses - Guanyinqiao Town/Barkam - Morning: Depart from Chengdu and enjoy the magnificent scenery of western Sichuan along the way to Zhuokeji Tusi Guanzhai. This official residence has a unique architectural style, blending the essence of Tibetan and Han architecture. Stepping inside, it's like traveling through time, experiencing the glory and mystery of the former Tusi family, and learning about the history and culture of the Gyalrong Tibetans. - Noon: Enjoy local specialties at a restaurant near Zhuokeji, such as Tibetan butter tea, hand-pulled meat, and buckwheat cakes, to experience the flavors of Tibetan cuisine. - Afternoon: Head to Xisuo Folk Houses, a well-preserved Gyalrong Tibetan village. The simple houses are scattered, and stone roads wind through them. Here you can experience authentic Tibetan life and admire exquisite traditional Tibetan handicrafts, such as Thangka and Tibetan carpets. In the evening, arrive at Guanyinqiao Town or Barkam, check into the hotel, and relax after a day's journey. D2: Guanyinqiao Town/Barkam - Wengda - Seda Larung Gar Buddhist Academy - Seda County - Morning: After breakfast, depart and pass through Wengda, enjoying the natural scenery of western Sichuan, such as grasslands and mountains, along the way. After arriving in Seda, go to Larung Gar Buddhist Academy and enter according to the appointment time. First, visit the academy, experience the strong religious atmosphere, and listen to the chanting of the lamas. - Noon: Have lunch at the vegetarian restaurant in the academy, experience the light vegetarian food, and feel the simplicity of monastic life. - Afternoon: Continue to explore the academy. You can choose to follow a local guide to learn more about the history, culture, and monastic traditions of the academy, or you can stroll among the red houses, communicate with practitioners, and take photos. In the evening, go to Seda County, and enjoy local delicacies such as yak beef hot pot and Tibetan hot pot to warm up your body and mind. D3: Seda - Donggar Monastery - Chengdu - Morning: Visit Donggar Monastery, an ancient temple with a long history. The temple houses many precious Buddhist relics and Thangkas. Feel the peaceful atmosphere in the temple and admire the exquisite architecture and murals. - Noon: After lunch nearby, embark on the return journey and end this meaningful trip to Seda. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery of western Sichuan again on the way and reminisce about the unforgettable experiences of these days. Food recommendations Yak beef hot pot: In Seda, you must try the steaming yak beef hot pot. The fresh yak beef is stewed until tender and flavorful, and the soup is delicious. Served with various vegetables, it can not only replenish energy but also resist the cold of the plateau. Tibetan yogurt: It has a rich and mellow taste, with a slightly sour taste and a hint of milky fragrance. The surface is sprinkled with a layer of white sugar or honey to neutralize the sourness. It is sweet and sour, appetizing, and refreshing. Tsampa: Made from roasted barley flour, it has a crispy texture and a strong aroma of wheat. It can be eaten with butter tea. It is one of the traditional staple foods of the Tibetan people and is full of rich Tibetan flavor. Things to note Altitude sickness: Seda is located in a high-altitude area. Take precautions against altitude sickness in advance, such as taking anti-altitude sickness medicine in advance, avoiding strenuous exercise after arrival, and getting enough rest. If you experience altitude sickness symptoms, you can use oxygen to relieve them. Respect local customs: In Buddhist academies and temples, respect local religious beliefs and customs. Do not take photos at will, do not make loud noises, and abide by local regulations. Keep warm: The temperature in the plateau area is low, and even in summer, the temperature difference between day and night is large. Be sure to bring enough warm clothes, such as down jackets, thick sweaters, and thermal pants.

This place is truly a red castle, absolutely stunning! ✅✅Recommended attractions: 1️⃣ Mandala: The highest point of the Buddhist Academy, overlooking the entire expanse of red houses, a truly breathtaking experience! 2️⃣ Assembly Hall: A magnificent golden building, where you can feel the rich religious atmosphere. 3️⃣ Kora Path: Walk the kora with the locals and experience the power of faith. 4️⃣ Larung Gar Buddhist Academy: Red houses scattered across the mountains, chanting voices, red-robed monks, a truly moving experience. A must-visit!👍 5️⃣ Viewing Platform: Follow the road to the left of the Mandala to reach the platform, which offers a panoramic view of the Serthar Buddhist Academy.👍👍 6️⃣ Sky Burial Platform: Witness the sacred sky burial ritual and experience Tibetan funeral culture. Those with strong hearts are welcome, but please refrain from taking photos. 7️⃣ Long Staircase: Walk along the staircase for a close-up view of the red houses and take some photos. 🈯Accommodation recommendations: ✅Sertar County: Generally better conditions, prices are reasonable, ranging from CNY 100–400, depending on your preference. ✅Within the Buddhist Academy: Larung Hotel, requires booking well in advance, often fully booked, and offers multi-bed rooms with shared toilets.🚾 📝Important tips: 1️⃣ Bring your ID card when visiting Sertar. Those without ID cards, Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan compatriots, and foreign friends are not allowed to enter. 2️⃣ Refrain from taking photos during visits to the Buddhist Academy and sky burial rituals. Respect local customs and avoid touching Tibetan children's heads. 3️⃣ If you want to see the night view, take the internal bus after sunset. The last bus is at 9pm. Be prepared for large temperature differences between day and night, and dress warmly in the evening. 4️⃣ No fire, no smoking, and no drones are allowed within the Buddhist Academy.🈲 5️⃣ Sertar is located at an altitude of over 4,000m. Be mindful of altitude sickness and bring oxygen tanks and altitude sickness medication. 📸Photography spot suggestions: 1️⃣ There is a yellow railing on the viewing platform. Stand by the railing and take a photo of the entire Sertar, including yourself. 2️⃣ There are two cement blocks, one tall and one short, below the viewing platform. You can take great photos from there, both俯拍 and sideways shots. 3️⃣ Walk down the cement road to the Mandala, turn around, and take a photo with the magnificent prayer wheels. 4️⃣ The red streets and alleys are also great photo spots. 5️⃣ The best time to capture a panoramic view of the Buddhist Academy is at 8:00 and 16:00.

On the plateau of western Sichuan, there is a mysterious place covered with crimson monk houses. When the sunlight shines down, every inch of land glows with the light of faith. This is Seda F Academy, a city of faith that countless people dream of visiting, a spiritual destination that you must visit in your lifetime. To help you easily embark on this soul-stirring journey, I have meticulously compiled this ultra-detailed guide to help you deeply appreciate the charm of Seda. 📸【Top Photo Spots】 1️⃣ West Viewing Platform of the Mandala: This is the perfect spot to capture panoramic views of the classic red houses and the golden sunrise over the mountains. When the first rays of morning sunlight pierce through the clouds and shine on the densely packed red houses, the scene is so beautiful it leaves you speechless. You will definitely capture photos that will go viral on social media. 2️⃣ Path behind the Sutra Hall: Want to take photos with fewer people and a strong sense of depth? This is your treasure spot. Walking along the winding path, surrounded by silence and countless red houses, every shot is filled with atmosphere. 3️⃣ Night View Spot: Boardwalk on the east side of the Mandala. Every night at 19:30, when the lights gradually turn on, the entire Buddhist academy is illuminated like a starry sky, with twinkling lights resembling a galaxy falling to the earth. It is the best spot for night photography. 🌟Outfit Suggestions: Wear a white or dark blue long dress, paired with an ethnic-style shawl to instantly blend into the sacred atmosphere. Adding a red scarf not only protects against the plateau's cold winds but also serves as a perfect accessory for stunning photos. 🙏【Pilgrimage Experience Checklist】 ▪️ At 7:00 AM, while the world is still asleep, wake up to the sound of chanting at F Academy. Let the chanting penetrate the mist and reach the depths of your soul, starting a soul-stirring spiritual journey. ▪️ Circumambulate the Mandala 108 times: This is a deep dialogue with faith. Remember to walk clockwise, with each circle carrying prayers for life, feeling the power of faith in the repetition. ▪️ Get a string of cinnabar F beads at the Sutra Distribution Center: Each bead contains blessings and prayers. Bring this gift from the F country home, keeping faith close to you. ▪️ Observe the debate: From 14:00 to 16:00, quietly sit at the debate ground and watch the monks engage in intense debates on F Dharma. Experience the profoundness of F Dharma through their intellectual exchanges. ⚠️【Plateau Survival Guide】 ✅ Must-bring items: Oxygen tank (cheaper to buy in the county, can be a lifesaver in critical moments), SPF50+ high SPF sunscreen (the plateau's UV rays are very strong, so sun protection is essential), wool hat (the plateau is very windy, so warmth and wind protection are necessary). ✅ Accommodation Recommendations: ▫️ Inside F Academy: LA Guesthouse, with an excellent location offering stunning views of the red houses from the window, making you feel like you are in a Buddhist painting. However, it is very popular, so remember to book a month in advance! ▫️ Comfortable choice in the county: Seda Washu Grand Hotel, which offers oxygen rooms that are a lifesaver for those affected by altitude sickness, allowing you to rest comfortably. ✅ Food Recommendations: ▫️ Nun's Kitchen Vegetarian Restaurant: Be sure to try the potato buns here. The unique texture and surprising taste will leave a lasting impression on your taste buds. ▫️ Must-try at the county's Tibetan restaurant: Butter tea + yak meat cover. The rich and mellow butter tea paired with tender and juicy yak meat is full of Tibetan flavor, satisfying your taste buds. 🔞【Taboos】 × No photography at the sky burial platform: Sky burial is a sacred and solemn custom of the Tibetan people, usually held from 13:00 to 15:00. Please maintain a sense of reverence and respect local cultural traditions. × Do not point at Buddha statues or touch young lamas' heads: This is a sign of respect for faith, avoiding unnecessary misunderstandings due to unfamiliarity with customs. × Remove hats and shoes inside the main hall: Enter the main hall with a pious heart, do not step over or sit on scriptures, and follow these taboos to better appreciate the solemnity and sanctity of Buddhist culture. 📅【Best Seasons】 June to August: The mountains are covered with blooming green velvet poppies, adding a fresh touch to the red F country, turning the entire Seda into a colorful fairy tale world. October to November: The interweaving of red leaves and white snow creates a stunning visual impact, showcasing a different beauty of Seda. ❄️ Winter temperatures can drop to -20°C, so travel with caution. However, if you are lucky enough to see Seda after snow, the entire F Academy is covered in silver, with the strong contrast of red and white creating a dreamlike beauty, making you feel like you are in a fairyland, an unforgettable visual feast. 🌌 When night falls, thousands of red houses light up one by one in the twilight. At that moment, you will deeply understand that this journey across mountains and rivers, all the fatigue and hardships have turned into inner touch and shock, worth remembering for a lifetime. Pack your bags and head to the city of faith in your heart to meet a better version of yourself!

Find Your Soul's Home 💖 Explore the Mysterious Buddhist Academy 🌄 Larung Gar Buddhist Academy in Ganzi Text: In this noisy world, there is a place where the soul can be purified, and that is Larung Gar Buddhist Academy in Ganzi, Sichuan. 📍 Today, let's take a look at this mysterious and beautiful place! 🌈 The academy is located in a beautiful valley, surrounded by green mountains and rivers, like a natural ink painting. 🏞️ Here, you can feel a sense of tranquility and peace away from the world. 💫 As soon as you enter the academy, you will be attracted by the strong religious atmosphere here. 🔥 The sound of monks chanting reverberates in the air, purifying the soul. Here, you can learn about the profound heritage and cultural inheritance of Tibetan Buddhism. 🕊️ The architectural style of the academy is unique and full of strong religious atmosphere. 🏛️ The golden roof shines in the sunlight, like a golden pagoda. Here, you can feel a sense of sacredness and solemnity. 🌸 The natural scenery around the academy is also very beautiful. 🏞️ In spring, the mountains are full of flowers; in summer, the grass is green; in autumn, the colors are colorful; in winter, the snow is white. Here, you can enjoy the wonderful changes of nature. 🍃 At Larung Gar Buddhist Academy, you can also taste local delicacies. 🥘 Butter tea, tsampa, highland barley wine... Every dish is full of strong ethnic flavor. Here, you can feel a unique food culture. 🌟 In short, Larung Gar Buddhist Academy in Ganzi is a place full of mystery and tranquility. Here, you can find the home of your soul and feel the true meaning of life. If you also want to experience this tranquility and peace, come and have a look!

Heavenly Buddhist Kingdom, Seda on Earth You have to see it to believe it Rows of red houses built along the mountain cover the entire slope 【☘️About Seda】 Seda Larung Gar Five Sciences Buddhist Academy is like a university, but with different subjects and more practitioners. The academy also has supermarkets, shops, hot pot restaurants, milk tea shops, etc. 【🎈How to Enter Seda】 Online reservations are tentatively available from June, and tickets must be purchased on-site one day in advance 🎫 (8:00–10:30) 1️⃣ There are two types of offline reservations: Navigation: Seda Jinma Grassland Distribution Center 👉 Boarding point: Jinma Grassland Distribution Center 💰48 👉 Boarding point: Luoruo Town Distribution Center 💰30 2️⃣ Online reservation: Little 🍊 "Pastoral Home" 3️⃣ Wild route: Led by locals, by motorcycle/on foot 【🌈Tour Route】 ✅ The bus terminal is "Tan City," where you can turn the prayer wheel and pray for blessings ✅ Walk all the way down from Tan City, passing by Larung Hotel, where you can take photos by the roadside ✅ Continue down to see a huge "prayer wheel," driven by a motor and lit up at night ✅ Continue along the road to "Larung Library," which houses many scriptures. You can visit, but remember to keep quiet ✅ Below Larung Library is the Nunnery, surrounded by canteens, supermarkets, and jewelry stores, which you can visit ✅ After visiting, go all the way up, passing by "Tan City," to the viewing platform, where you can overlook the entire Seda Buddhist Academy 【🚗Transportation and Accommodation】 There are buses in the academy, 3 yuan/person You can stay at "Larung Hotel" in the academy, which can only be booked offline; You can also stay in "Seda County" or "Luoruo Town" 【Sky Burial Platform】 🚫 Currently not open to the public, but there are small paths that can be hiked to 【🍝Food Recommendations】 The academy has eggs, but no meat You can try the vegetarian meat in the academy, which looks realistic and tastes similar 【⛰Nearby Attractions】 Dongga Temple: About 10 minutes' drive from Seda, you can drive to the entrance Danqing Yaowang Mountain: There are many marmots on the plank road in summer

Snow has fallen in Seda. This is a magical place worth visiting. The red walls and white tiles look even more sacred in the snow, as if they can cleanse your soul. Here, red clothes symbolize the practice of Buddhism, and red walls separate the mundane world from faith. It is a place that lacks oxygen but never lacks faith. When snowflakes fall, Seda is breathtakingly beautiful. The red color all over the mountains is like a cure for the soul, soothing everything. This is the end of the "pilgrimage journey". Here, you can see red houses, snow-capped mountains, and grasslands, which calm your mind, wash away the hustle and bustle of life, and are worth visiting to experience the unique local culture. [Location] Location: Larung Gar Buddhist Academy, Seda (Note: Do not set the location to Seda County, which is more than 20 km away) [Ticket Booking] 1. Online: Mu Ren Jia Yuan Mini Program, CNY 168/person. 2. Offline: 3. Jinma Grassland Tourist Center, CNY 48/person. 4. Luoruo Town Tourist Center, CNY 30/person. (Bring your ID card, and facial recognition is required. If you cannot make a reservation, you can ask a local to take you in for CNY 200. Make sure to do your research in advance.) [Check-in Spots] Larung Road Seda Mandala Long Stairs Buddhist Academy Viewing Platform Dongga Temple [Seda 5-Day Tour Route Recommendation] ·Day 1: Chengdu - Shuangqiao Valley - Danba/Siguniang Mountain. ·Day 2: Danba - Seda. ·Day 3: Seda - Gulong Village - Muya Monastery - Grassland Sunset - Tagong/Xinduqiao. ·Day 4: Tagong/Xinduqiao - Quanhua Beach - Lenggacuo - Shangmuju/Yulongxi Village (Snow Mountain & Afternoon Tea). ·Day 5: Shangmuju/Yulongxi Village - Zimei Pass - Jiagenba - Zheduo Mountain - Chengdu. [Notes] [One] Be sure to bring your ID card (Hong Kong and Macao residents also need to bring it), otherwise you will not be able to enter. [Two] Do not take photos at will, do not touch children's heads (only living Buddhas can do this), and do not take photos of monks or the interior of temples. [Three] Respect local customs. Smoking, using fire, and using drones are prohibited in the Buddhist Academy. [Four] Seda is at a high altitude, so prepare altitude sickness medicine, oxygen tanks, motion sickness medicine, and cold medicine. [Five] The climate is changeable. If you go during the National Day holiday, bring cotton-padded clothes, down jackets, thermal underwear, and long johns, and keep warm, sun-protected, and moisturized.

It’s snowing in Seda! Red walls and white tiles, like a dreamland [Cute] 📍Specific location: Larung Gar Buddhist Academy, Seda (don’t go to Seda County, it’s more than 20 kilometers away from the scenic spot) 🎫Ticket Purchasing Tips Online 🔗Shepherd’s Home mini program, 168 yuan/person, done with one click. Offline, you can go to the Jinma Grassland Tourism Distribution Center (48 yuan/person) or the Luoruo Town Distribution Center (30 yuan/person). You must bring your mainland China ID card. 📸Treasure check-in spot Larung Highway 🛣️ winds through magnificent mountains and rivers, and is the starting point of a visual feast; Seda Mandala🪷 A gathering place for faith, turn the sutras and pray for blessings, cleansing the soul; The long staircase 🚶‍♂️ leads to the sacred temple with pious steps at every step; The Buddhist Academy Observation Deck 👀 overlooks the red house like a sea, shocking the soul; Donggar Temple🛕 has an ancient charm and a profound Tibetan culture. Kind tips: You must bring your mainland China ID card, otherwise you won’t be able to enter. Do not take photos casually, and do not take photos of monks and temple interiors Drones are prohibited when visiting Buddhist colleges Seda is at a high altitude, so you should prepare altitude sickness medicine, oxygen cylinders, motion sickness medicine, and cold medicine. It is quite cold in western Sichuan now, so you need to wear down jackets or other warm clothes when you go there. [Cute] The Buddha Kingdom in Heaven, Seda on Earth, Worth a Visit

|A place I've always wanted to visit. Seda Buddhist Institute | A place I've always wanted to visit~ The red houses are the most iconic sight in Seda. They are arranged on the hillside in an orderly manner, like burning flames or a red sea, vast and magnificent. The red houses are not only architectural masterpieces but also symbols of faith. Each house is inhabited by devout practitioners who adhere to their faith day after day, injecting endless spiritual power into this land. The afterglow of the setting sun shines on the red houses, and the golden light blends with the red, creating a sacred and warm atmosphere that is touching. In Seda, time is slow and long. You can sit on the hillside, look at the distant scenery, and let your thoughts drift; you can also communicate with local practitioners, listen to their stories and insights, and gain wisdom and strength. There is no hustle and bustle of the city here, only inner peace and fulfillment. Scenic location: Location: Larung Gar Buddhist Academy, Seda (do not locate Seda County, which is more than 20 kilometers away) Ticket reservation method: Online: Mu Ren Jia Yuan Mini Program, 168/person Offline: Jinma Grassland Tourist Distribution Center, 48/person Luoruo Town Distribution Center, 30/person (Bring your ID card, face recognition is required, if you really can't make a reservation, you can only find a local person and pay 200 to get in, so you need to do your homework) Check-in spots: Larung Road, Seda Tancheng Long Ladder Buddhist Institute Observation Deck, Dongga Temple Seda 4-day tour route recommendation: D1: Chengdu - Kangding - Honghaizi - Sidingcuo - Yuzixi - Xinduqiao D2: Xinduqiao - Ga'ersi - Tagong Grassland - Moxi Park - Seda D3: Seda Buddhist Institute - Yala Snow Mountain Observation Deck - Danba D4: Danba - Siguniang Mountain Shuangqiaogou - Chengdu!! Notes: 1 Bring your ID card, otherwise you can't get in, the same goes for Hong Kong and Macau compatriots 2 Don't take pictures casually, don't touch children's heads (only living Buddhas can), don't take pictures of monks and temples 3 Respect local customs, no drones are allowed in the Buddhist Institute 4 Seda is at a high altitude, so prepare high-altitude sickness medicine, oxygen bottles, motion sickness medicine, and cold medicine 5 The climate is changeable, so be sure to bring cotton clothes, down jackets, thermal underwear, and keep warm, do sun protection, and moisturize the heavenly Buddhist kingdom, Seda on earth, is worth a visit!

#asiatrip Seda, located in the eastern part of Tibet in China’s Sichuan Province, is a unique and serene destination that captivates visitors with its spiritual significance and stunning landscapes. Known primarily for the Larung Gar Buddhist Academy, Seda is one of the most important centers for Tibetan Buddhism, attracting thousands of monks and nuns from around the world. The vast academy, set against a backdrop of rolling hills, houses thousands of bright red wooden buildings, creating a striking contrast with the green mountains and sky. The sheer scale of the Larung Gar Academy is awe-inspiring. The tightly packed houses of monks and nuns, arranged along the hillsides, create a maze-like appearance that adds to the mystique of the place. Visitors can wander through the narrow alleys, observing monks engaged in prayer, study, and meditation, providing a rare insight into Tibetan monastic life. The atmosphere is peaceful, and the sound of chanting prayers echoes through the mountains, enhancing the spiritual aura of the area. Seda is also known for its picturesque surroundings. The vibrant red buildings, combined with the towering snow-capped mountains in the distance, make for a dramatic and memorable sight. The remote location adds to the sense of tranquility, offering a perfect escape from the bustle of everyday life. While Seda is a deeply spiritual place, it is also a haven for those seeking adventure. The area offers scenic hiking trails with panoramic views of the valley below, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers. The town itself remains relatively untouched by modern development, offering an authentic and peaceful experience. Overall, Seda is a remarkable destination for those interested in Tibetan culture, spirituality, and natural beauty. Whether exploring the Buddhist academy or simply soaking in the landscape, Seda offers a profound and unforgettable experience.

📍Seda Larung Gar Buddhist Academy In the Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in western Sichuan, there is a mysterious and awe-inspiring land called Seda. It is a place full of faith and strength, like a pure land in the world, attracting countless people to explore the home of their hearts🧘‍. —————————————— Seda photo spots📷📷📷 1️⃣ Mandala: Located on the highest peak of the Seda Larung Gar Buddhist Academy, it has three floors and you can see monks turning the prayer wheels. 2️⃣ Viewing platform: You can reach it quickly along the Mandala and overlook the entire Seda Larung Gar Buddhist Academy. 3️⃣ Long staircase: Walk along the stairs devoutly, and the red houses are right in front of you. 4️⃣ Dongga Temple: Located 6 km outside Seda County, there is no need to go too early as it opens at 9 am. ————————————————— Sky burial🙏 Sky burial usually starts around 1 pm. Don't go too early, 1 pm is more appropriate. You can only see vultures, a group of vultures, and nothing else. You can also go from inside the Buddhist Academy and navigate to Seda Sky Burial Platform. Respect local customs and do not take photos. The scene is very shocking and has a smell, so please bring a mask. ——————————————————— Tips: 1⃣️ Be sure to bring your ID card🆔 before departure. Whether you go to Seda or other scenic spots, you need an ID card to enter the park. 2⃣️ Local tickets can only be reserved for the next day, so you can't see the night view that night. 3️⃣ After entering the Buddhist Academy, follow the advice of the locals and take the bus🚌 for 3 yuan/person. Go directly to the top and do not get off halfway. 4️⃣ Along the way, you will see nuns and lamas worshiping all the way. Do not disturb them, and do not take photos. 5️⃣ The viewing platform is on the left side of the Mandala. Walk along the road behind the mountain for 10 minutes to reach it, and you can see the grassland from a distance. 6️⃣ Seda County and Luoruo Town have various hotels and homestays. The Larong Hotel in the Buddhist Academy can only be booked on-site. ——————————————————— Transportation🚗 1️⃣ Official bus At the Jinma Distribution Center in Seda County, buy a 48 yuan bus ticket, and there are usually tickets available for the same day. You can choose the departure place, Seda County, or Luoruo Town where the Buddhist Academy is located. The two places are more than 20 km apart, so don't buy the wrong one. The return is also to the departure point. 2️⃣ Tour group More than 100 yuan for three attractions (including two free attractions). 3️⃣ Wild motorcycle Not recommended, not safe. The whole journey can only be described as beautiful and spectacular. I really felt what it means to have your body in hell and your eyes in heaven😄

Seda is a place you must visit in your lifetime. It is not a tourist attraction, but a sacred place of Tibetan Buddhism. When I arrived here, I found inner peace! Seda can wash away the hustle and bustle of life. For ordinary people, it is worth visiting once to experience the unique culture.

Location 🚩 Located in the northeast of Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, at the intersection of Sichuan Province, Qinghai Province, Aba Prefecture, Ganzi Prefecture, and Guoluo Prefecture in Qinghai Province. It has unique cultural landscapes and natural scenery. How to get there⁉️ 🚌 Bus: There are direct buses from Chengdu Chadianzi Bus Station to Seda, but the journey is long and may take more than ten hours. 🚗 Self-driving: You can drive to Seda by yourself. You can choose the route from Chengdu - Dujiangyan - Wenchuan - Lixian - Maerkang - Wengda - Seda, and enjoy the scenery along the way. ✈️ Take a plane to Kangding Airport or Ganzi Gesar Airport first, and then transfer to other means of transportation to Seda. ❣️Important❣️ This is not a scenic spot. If you want to go there, it is best to make a strategy in advance, make an appointment, and arrange your itinerary. You may not have faith, but please respect the faith of others. 🏨Accommodation: 1. There are many hotels and inns in Seda County to choose from, and the conditions are relatively good. 2. There are also some accommodations in the Buddhist Academy, but the conditions are relatively simple. 🍜Food: 1. Yak meat: fresh and tender, rich in nutrition. 2. Highland barley cake: crispy, with the aroma of highland barley. 3. Buttered tea: rich and sweet, warm and delicious. 🎫Attractions: 1. Seda Larung Gar Buddhist Academy: The red houses all over the mountains are very spectacular. 2. Sky burial platform: Experience the unique funeral culture. This depends on the local situation and may not be open to visitors. 💡Notes: 1. The altitude of Seda is relatively high, generally above 3,800 meters. Take precautions against altitude sickness in advance, and take anti-altitude sickness drugs in advance. 2. The local climate is changeable, and the temperature difference between morning and evening is large. Bring warm clothes, such as down jackets, and windbreakers. 3. Respect local religious beliefs and customs. Keep quiet when entering religious places such as Buddhist academies, and do not take photos at will. 4. Sky burial is a solemn ceremony. Please keep solemn and respectful when watching, and do not make loud noises or take photos or videos. 5. The local road conditions may not be good, so pay attention to driving safety when driving by yourself. Especially in winter 💠 Seda · Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture Seda Travel Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture · Sichuan Ganzi Travel Seda Larung Gar Buddhist Academy Buddhist Academy

In the mysterious land of Seda County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, lies the world-famous Seda Larung Gar Buddhist Academy. Surrounded by mountains at an altitude of 3,900 meters, it is an important school of the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism and a sacred place where faith and nature intertwine. In the early morning, when the first rays of sunlight pierce through the mist, the golden light shines on the crimson wooden houses scattered across the mountains, as if draping a sacred cloak over the tranquil valley. These houses are densely built on the surrounding slopes, creating a magnificent scene that resembles a grand painting from afar. They bear witness to the devotion and resilience of countless believers, with every brick and tile carrying deep faith and hope. Seda Larung Gar Buddhist Academy is not only a religious institution but also a comprehensive community. In addition to temples and shrines, it offers facilities such as restaurants, supermarkets, cafes, and guesthouses, providing convenience for both believers and visitors. Despite its remote location, it exudes a modern lifestyle. However, this does not disrupt the tranquility and harmony of the place; instead, it adds a touch of earthly warmth to this sacred land. Historically, Seda Larung Gar Buddhist Academy was founded by Jigme Phuntsok in 1980. After decades of development, it has become the largest Tibetan Buddhist

Sertar Buddhist College is a place of red faith You deserve a visit I went with a tour group (I felt it was very convenient to have someone arrange everything and know where it was worth going) The scene in front of the Buddhist Academy is magnificent. The footage I shot was too limited, and I couldn’t express the shock of the scene directly. There was also a strange scene on the way to the Buddhist College by car at the foot of the mountain. It was raining before I got on the bus. It was raining, hail, and sunny on the way. Sky burial ~ I don’t dare to go [Facepalm] The scenery along the way is beautiful, no matter where you go, it is a painting Go experience, go enjoy, go see the groundhogs The route passes through Aba Prefecture and Wenchuan ~ mid-May to early July ~ Cherries 🍒 Free Note: Don’t use too much water. The bathroom is hard to find. Bring some thick clothes and an umbrella 🌂

📍 Larung Gar Buddhist Academy, Seda County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan, is a famous Tibetan Buddhist school. Since it opened to the public, countless people have been attracted by the red monk houses here, like a red ocean, isolated from the world, quiet and solemn. - 🚌 You must make a reservation in advance to visit Seda Buddhist Academy. After arriving at the Luoruo Town Distribution Center, take a bus up the mountain. Self-driving vehicles are not allowed here. 📸 Must-visit attractions ✅ Seda Mandala: Located at the top of the Buddhist Academy, turn the prayer wheel and feel the peace of mind. ✅ Buddhist Academy Observation Deck: Overlook the panoramic view of the Buddhist Academy, the best place to take photos. ✅ Buddhist Academy Long Stairs: Walk among the red buildings and feel the solemnity up close. ✅ Reclining Buddha Temple: Located next to the altar, quiet and solemn, photography is not allowed here, please maintain a sense of awe. ✅ Dongga Temple: Not far from the county seat, it is one of the three major temples in Seda, with a unique flavor. 📸 Photo spots 1⃣️ Along the way up the mountain: Sitting on the left side, you can see rows of red houses, temples, monks, etc. 2⃣️ Mandala: The three floors are really shocking, located on the top of the mountain, with an endless stream of believers praying here. 3⃣️ Larung Hotel: There is a road leading directly to their rest area below, and the street lights along the way are very photogenic. 4⃣️ Buddhist Academy Observation Deck: Overlooking the entire view, the view is very wide, and you can see different scenery in spring, summer, autumn, and winter. 5⃣️ Long Stairs: Leading down from the local people's residence, the golden escalator is very photogenic. 🎒 [Items to bring] ✔️ Documents: ID card, driver's license, student ID ✔️ Clothing: Windbreaker, sneakers, hat, sunglasses, scarf, sun hat ✔️ Medicine: Motion sickness medicine, glucose, stomach medicine, cold medicine ✔️ Daily necessities: Lotion, face mask, sunscreen, lip balm, compressed towel, wet wipes ✔️ Electronics: Power bank, charger, headphones, camera, spare battery 🎫 Ticket purchase guide ❶. Online tickets have been stopped since July 2024, and all tickets need to be purchased on-site. ❷. On-site ticket purchases are for the next day, so you need to stay in Seda for at least 2 days. ❸. For on-site ticket purchases, navigate directly to Jinma Grassland Distribution Center, there is usually no queue. ❹. The so-called ticket is actually a bus ticket to the Buddhist Academy, 48R. ❺. Other ways can be through local motorcycles 100R. ⚠️ Travel Tips: 1⃣ If you want to see the night view of Seda, you can take the bus inside after sunset, the latest is 9 pm. 2⃣ The average temperature in Seda is around 0, so be sure to bring a thick coat! The average altitude is 4,127 meters, remember to bring an oxygen tank. 3⃣ Remember! Do not take photos inside the Buddhist Academy 📷

If you ask me what's in my heart It is irreplaceable and unique Then I would say "Seda" without hesitation. This is a red Buddhist country where faith and lack of oxygen coexist It is also one of the places rated as "a must-go place in this life" Red has another meaning here From a distance, it is shocking; from close up, it is faith. 🎫How to book tickets: 🔺Online: The small 🍊 reservation channels will be suspended from the beginning of June, and only offline reservations can be made. 🔺Offline: Go to the "Serda County Jinma Grassland Distribution Center" transportation line to buy tickets one day in advance, 30💰 per person, and you can make reservations for tickets at 07:30, 13:00, and 18:00 the next day. Any remaining tickets that have not been sold out on the day will also be sold at 08:30 in the morning. 🔺Others: Locals charge NT$100 per person for motorcycles and sneak in from the back mountain. It is quite dangerous. If you can’t get a ticket, you can try it. 📍Address: Larung Gar Buddhist Academy, Seda 🚌Transportation: ✔Bus: From Chengdu to Seda, buy a ticket at "Chadianzi Bus Station" for 284 yuan per person, swipe your mainland China ID card to get on the bus, depart at 06:40 in the morning and arrive in about 12 hours. ✔ Self-driving: Directly search for "Wu Ming Buddhist College" navigation. It is recommended to avoid traveling at night due to complex road conditions.

🌄Kids, you must visit Western Sichuan once! It is a treasure land favored by God. 🏔️In Daocheng Yading, the sacred and pure Yangmaiyong Snow Mountain stands between heaven and earth. The Milk Sea is like a blue gem inlaid at the foot of the snow mountain, surrounded by fluttering prayer flags. Every step closer seems to be a spiritual pilgrimage. 🌳Xinduqiao is not a bridge, but a paradise for photographers. The golden poplars, the boundless grassland, the winding stream, and the scattered Tibetan houses in the distance constitute a picturesque pastoral scenery. A random shot is a blockbuster that can be used as wallpaper. 🌊Seda Buddhist Academy, the red ocean is shocking. Thousands of red Tibetan-style bungalows are endless, surrounded by several magnificent temples and Buddhist halls. When night falls, thousands of lights are lit, as if the stars fall into the world. 🍲There are countless delicacies along the way. The yak meat is tender and juicy, and the butter tea is rich in aroma. Camping under the starry sky, talking with friends by the bonfire. Western Sichuan has all the beauty you yearn for! Come and start this dream journey.

Who hasn't been to Seda? After waiting for 7 years, I finally made it. Seda is not closed!!! You can visit. 1️⃣ Tickets can only be purchased offline. It is recommended to purchase tickets one day in advance during peak season. ‼️You must bring your ID card/Household Registration (Hukou)/electronic ID card to the site in person (including children). 📍Ticket purchase address: Jinma Grassland Tourist Distribution Center ⏰Ticket purchase time: 08:00-22:30 —— 2️⃣Ticket price (divided into two types according to the boarding point) ✅Seda Jinma Grassland Tourist Distribution Center: CNY 48/person round trip ✅Luo Ruo Distribution Center: CNY 30/person round trip ‼️Tickets cannot be purchased at the Luo Ruo Distribution Center, only boarding is available. It is said that tickets can be purchased online, CNY 168/person. —— 3️⃣The tour time is only one hour. If you miss the shuttle bus, you can only take the bus or walk down the mountain. (Bus fare: CNY 3/person) The bus terminal 🏁 is at the gate of the Buddhist Academy at the foot of the mountain, 1.7 kilometers away from the Luo Ruo Distribution Center. There are private cars to Seda County. ‼️The last bus is at 21:00 —— 4️⃣Seda is at a high altitude. When checking in at the hotel, you can choose a hotel with an oxygen generator. You can buy oxygen cylinders in the county before going up the mountain. ⚠️Precautions ①Not all Buddhist academies are open, and many places have 🚫 signs prohibiting tourists from entering. ②Do not take photos of local lamas without permission. ③The lights of the Buddhist Academy are on at 20:00, and all lights are on at 21:00. ④Prepare a thick coat 🧥. The temperature difference between day and night on the mountain is large, so keep warm.

(8) Sichuan-Tibet North-South Self-Driving Tour: "A Place of Hypoxia but Not Lacking Faith" - Seda Buddhist Academy Sichuan Ganzi 2024.9.8 Seda weather: Sunny to cloudy, temperature 5-21 degrees, altitude 3886 meters. It feels cool in the morning, so wear autumn and winter clothes. Seda, a place of hypoxia but not lacking faith. Seda Buddhist Academy is not a scenic spot, but a place for monks and nuns to study and cultivate. It is not open to the public. There were various online strategies before, such as making an appointment for a visit. However, online appointments were cancelled from June 6 this year and changed to offline appointments. We saw the situation on the spot, and the above situation is true. The full name of Seda Buddhist Academy is "Seda Larung Gar Five Sciences Buddhist Academy" (Figure 1), located in Larung Gar Valley, Luozhuo Town, Seda County, Ganzi Prefecture (Figure 2), about 20 kilometers from the county seat, with an average altitude of over 3800 meters, belonging to the Nyingma School of Tibetan Buddhism. There are two main types of people who visit the Buddhist Academy: religious believers who study and practice, and photography enthusiasts who travel and check in. Whether you are a believer or a traveler, in the hearts of many people, this is a holy place worth visiting (Figure 3), the rows of densely packed prayer houses (Figure 4), the red houses (Figure 5), the blue sky and white clouds (Figure 6), the simple Tibetan people and the devout monks (Figure 7), all of which make people feel pious and respectful. The "Mandala" (Figure 8) is the highest and most magnificent building in the Buddhist Academy. The Mandala has three floors. The first floor is a prayer corridor, where countless believers come to pray every day, praying for their next life (Figure 9). The second floor houses various Buddhas and Bodhisattvas. The third floor houses esoteric statues that are not usually seen, which are currently under repair. (There are many electric poles and wires in the Buddhist Academy, which cannot be avoided. Let's keep it original for now.) Currently, there is no entrance fee to visit the Buddhist Academy. There are two main ways to get there: one is to make an appointment at the Golden Horse Grassland Tourist Center in the county seat to go to the Buddhist Academy. There are two places where you can get on the bus, the county seat or Luozhuo Town. There are seven time slots every day, morning and afternoon. The fare is CNY48/person. The daily quota is limited. The appointment window is open from 8:00 to 20:00. The second is to make an appointment on the "Seda Pastoral Home" official account. The price is CNY168/person, including three points of the Buddhist Academy. Appointments start three days in advance. Appointments are more difficult during holidays, so it is recommended to avoid them as much as possible. Both of the above are official channels. There are also ways to get in through the back door, but I haven't tried them and don't recommend them. After arriving in Seda at 3:30 pm yesterday, we immediately went to the site to make an appointment, but it was sold out for the day, and there was only an afternoon slot for the next day. We made an appointment for 3 pm, which delayed us by half a day and required us to stay one more night. It is also necessary to slow down the pace when first arriving on the plateau. Tomorrow, we will travel to Dege via Ganzi.

🎒【Travel Plan】Day1: Depart from Chengdu, enjoy the magnificent mountains and rivers along the way, arrive in Seda in the evening, and watch the red house lights at night; Day2: Explore the Buddhist Academy, discover the path of practice under thousands of butter lamps, and visit the Sky Burial Platform in the afternoon to feel the cycle of life; Day3: Visit the natural beauty around the Seda Larung Gar Buddhist Academy, return to Chengdu in the evening, and come back fully loaded. 📚【Travel Essentials】Warm clothing🧥, sunscreen🌞, water bottle🥤, camera📷 to capture every stunning moment. Respect local customs and bring a sense of reverence. 🚗【About Transportation】Self-driving or chartering a car is recommended. It takes about 7 hours to drive from Chengdu to Seda, with endless scenery along the way. You can also choose to take a long-distance bus, but it offers less flexibility. 🍜【About Food】Try Tibetan hot pot🍲, which warms both body and heart; Tsampa and butter tea☕️, authentic flavors not to be missed. There are also many Sichuan restaurants in Seda town to satisfy your Chinese palate. 🏨【About Accommodation】It is recommended to choose inns near the Buddhist Academy for convenient early morning sightseeing. Although the conditions are limited, the starry night and morning chanting will surely be unforgettable. 📸【Photo Spots】The red houses of the Buddhist Academy, with the best shooting point at the mountain top viewing platform🌄; the Sky Burial Platform, although not suitable for long stays, can still touch the soul from a distance; at night, the red houses under the starry sky are a paradise for photography enthusiasts🌌. 💡【Tips】Pay attention to sun protection and warmth in high-altitude areas, drink water moderately to prevent altitude sickness; respect local culture and beliefs, and keep the environment clean; accommodation is tight during peak seasons, so it is recommended to book in advance. Don't wait, take this guide and head towards the pure land of the soul!🚀

In mid-June, I just returned from Seda Although the travel time was relatively short I still think this place is very good This Buddhist academy, located on a plateau at an altitude of 4200 meters Surrounded by magnificent snow-capped mountains and vast grasslands Attracts monks and scholars from all over the world They come here to study, communicate, and research Buddhist doctrines For us, the architecture of Seda Buddhist Academy is also eye-catching Its style is full of Tibetan characteristics, the architectural complex is neat and orderly, and the momentum is magnificent 📍Address: Located in Luoruo Town, Seda County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, navigate to Seda Buddhist Academy⛪️ 🏠Accommodation: You can stay in Luoruo Town, next to the entrance of Seda Larung Gar Buddhist Academy 🎫Tickets: When I went, I could only buy the 168 yuan ticket, the 40 yuan online ticket was closed, you need to book in advance 📸Photography: ✅Seda Tancheng: You can follow the monks and walk around the Tancheng three times clockwise on each level ✅Observation Deck: 300 meters up from the Tancheng, there is an observation deck where you can overlook the entire Seda Buddhist Academy⛪️ ✅Seda Night View: The night view🌃 is also very impressive, you can take the bus🚌 out after sunset, the latest is 9 o'clock ⚠️Photography Notice: Do not disturb the local monks🙅‍♂️ ⚠️Note: The temperature difference in the mountains is large, you need to wear thick clothes🧥, the altitude is high, walk slowly, otherwise it is easy to get hypoxia

Seda! A place that captivates the soul! Nyingma! A mysterious and secluded pure land! Five Sciences! The universe is summarized into five sciences! Academy! Let your body reach it so your eyes won't regret it... ❌The 3-year pandemic has passed! Seda is about to open! 🎫Ticket Reservation ➡️Seda in the Cloud (Mini Program) ⭐Be sure to book in advance! 🗺️Route Recommendations 1⃣️Chengdu～434 Highway～Yuzi West/Gedilamu～Xinduqiao 2⃣️Xinduqiao～Tagong Grassland～Moshi Park～Seda 3⃣️Seda～Buddhist Academy～Yala Snow Mountain～Danba 4⃣️Danba～Siguniang Mountain～Balang Mountain～Chengdu 🏨Hotel Selection Xinduqiao: Many types of hotels, also unique homestays! Seda: Various grades of hotels, also unique inns! Danba: Unique homestays are the highlight here! 🛎️Food Recommendations Xinduqiao: Yak meat hot pot, beef offal hot pot, Tibetan cuisine, Sichuan cuisine Seda: Mushroom hot pot, Sichuan stir-fry Danba: Tibetan home-cooked dishes

📆Best Travel Time: May to October is the best season, with snowscapes after November, but winter travel is inconvenient due to road conditions. During the monastery's festivals in January, April, June, and September, it gets very crowded, so be sure to book your tickets and hotels in advance. 📍Address: Luoruo Township, Seda County, Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province🏔️Altitude: Around 3977 meters ✅Current reservation methods are online and offline 1⃣️Online - Larung Gar Entrance Reservation Reservations available for 10:00 and 15:30 slots (tickets go on sale at 18:00) 🎫440 tickets available daily💰30 RMB per person 2⃣️Offline - Seda County Tourism and Culture Bureau ⏰Reservations for the same day's 13:00 and 18:00 tickets start at 8:30 ⏰14:00-18:00 reservations for the next day's 7:30, 13:00, and 18:00 tickets 🎫560 tickets available daily💰48 RMB per person 🎒Items to bring: ID card, sunscreen, sunglasses, power bank, oxygen bottle, hat, gloves, scarf, thermos, hand warmers ⚠️Precautions 🔸Seda is at a high altitude, so be sure to prepare altitude sickness medication or painkillers (such as Acetaminophen or Gaoyuan An, etc.) 🔸The temperature in Seda changes rapidly, so if you're staying for several days, prepare both thick and thin clothing 🔸Women should not enter temples in revealing clothing, and men should not wear shorts or short sleeves. You can rent local Tibetan attire (it's cheap, remember to bargain), which can also be used for taking photos later 🔸Do not step on the thresholds of temples casually, and do not point at monks with your finger (if you need to point at someone, do so with your palm facing up to show respect) 🔸Do not take photos of local monks without permission ✅Wuming Buddhist Academy The largest Buddhist academy in the world, be sure to experience the local Buddhist teachings. Classes start at 19:30, with separate seating for men and women. As long as you follow the order and do not make noise, the monks will not stop you from listening in. ✅Red House Viewing Platform To see the most stunning view of Seda's red houses, follow the road with white railings next to the mandala (opposite direction of Larung Hotel) all the way up to the viewing platform, where you can overlook the entire breathtaking landscape of red houses. ✅Mandala Magnificent and awe-inspiring. There are three levels, and every day countless monks and devotees circle around, turning prayer wheels and paying homage. You can join the locals in circling and praying for blessings. ✅Sky Burial Platform The scene is so shocking that it's hard to snap back to reality for a long time. With a whistle, vultures cover the sky. In this place, it seems as if the distance between life and death is broken, prompting a rethinking of the meaning of life. (The scene is shocking, be mentally prepared before you go, and wear a mask on site) 🏨Accommodation: Larung Hotel is the only hotel in Seda Buddhist Academy, which cannot be booked in advance and only upon arrival. When we stayed, it was about 200 RMB per room, with basic facilities; there are also cheaper beds, but you have to use a communal bathroom. The hotel is on a hill, and you have to carry your luggage up a long flight of stairs, so it's not recommended if you're not physically fit. Other than that, you can only stay in Seda County. 🩹Tips: 🚨Oxygen: Bagged oxygen can be rented from the hospital, with a deposit of 30 RMB for the oxygen bag, and the oxygen costs a few yuan. Keep the deposit slip safe, and return the oxygen bag before leaving the academy. 🚨Diet: To prevent altitude sickness, eat more vegetables and fruits, drink more water; avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, and overeating 🚨Clothing: The temperature in high-altitude areas is low, so no matter the season, be sure to bring a down jacket or a windbreaker 🚨Toilet Guide: Public toilets are located in the residential areas of lamas and nuns, not easy to find, so ask around. Be sure to bring a flashlight at night, as sometimes there are no lights in the toilets or on the road. 💝The above is a guide to Seda, hoping it will be helpful to you. During your trip, respect the local culture and customs, maintain a good attitude, and enjoy the fun of traveling.

Take a spontaneous trip! 🚗 Destination—mysterious Seda, the red Buddhist land that captivates the heart, is now officially open to the public! 🎉 🎈Did you know? Since 2020, the Seda Larung Gar Buddhist Academy has been waiting for the day to reunite with us. And now, on July 20, 2022, it has finally lifted its veil of mystery and opened its arms to the world once again! 🙏 🏞️Stepping into Seda is like entering a secluded sanctuary. Home to the world's largest Tibetan Buddhist academy, the mountains are covered with red houses and prayer flags, all bearing witness to faith. 🏯 Walking on this red land, you will feel an unprecedented sense of tranquility and harmony. 🍃The ubiquitous red across the hills can heal all the weariness and irritation in your heart. Standing on the mountaintop, overlooking the entire Seda, you will be deeply moved by the red ocean. 🌄 At that moment, you will feel as if all troubles have vanished, leaving only inner peace and serenity. 💖Seda is not just a travel destination, but a sacred place where the soul can be purified. 🌸 Here, you can let go of all burdens and have a deep conversation with your inner self. You will discover that life can be so beautiful and simple. 🌈So, dear friends, if you too are tired of the irritations of life, come to Seda! 🚗 Let's embark on this pilgrimage together, feel the power of faith, and find inner peace and serenity. 🙏

🏮A celestial Buddha land, a worldly Seda. A place lacking oxygen but not faith, a sacred destination one must visit in their lifetime. "Seda is a place where religion is irrelevant, and only faith matters." Longing for Seda for a long time, I had only seen its magnificence in photos before. This time we drove there and witnessed the sanctity of Seda with our own eyes. 🚘【Transportation】 Departing from Chengdu, navigate to "Seda Larung Gar Buddhist Academy," which takes about 9 hours. Remember not to directly navigate to "Seda County" because the academy is 20 kilometers away from the county town. 🅿️Parking is very convenient, right next to the Luoruo Distribution Center, 8 yuan for 2 hours, then 3 yuan for each additional hour. (If you're not driving, you can also take a bus from Chengdu Chadianzi Bus Station, which takes a bit longer, about 15 hours.) 🎫【Tickets】 You need to make a reservation to enter Seda, which can be done 'online or offline.' We booked online two days in advance. ✅Online: Two days in advance, go to the mini-program "Larung Valley Entry Reservation," transportation line ➡️ Luoruo Distribution Center transportation line ➡️ select time and book immediately, 💰30/person. ✅Offline: One day in advance, go to "Seda County Jinma Distribution Center" transportation line, book on-site 💰48/person. ⚠️If you can't book through either online or offline methods, we learned that you can find locals to take you in. However, it involves riding a motorcycle off-road, which feels very dangerous, and the price is much higher than a normal reservation, 150 yuan per person. Moreover, you need to hike down the mountain by yourself, so the experience might not be very good. So, make sure to book your 🎫tickets in advance before you travel! The weather was unstable on the day we went. It snowed the night before we arrived at Luoruo County (where Seda Larung Gar Buddhist Academy is located), and it kept snowing intermittently the next morning. The sun came out at noon, but when we went up the mountain, the sun had set again. We only briefly saw Seda bathed in sunlight, but it was enough to leave us in awe. Our reservation time was quite late, at 4:50 pm, so in the morning we went to a popular Tibetan restaurant in Seda County for lunch and took a side trip to Dongga Temple nearby. 🥣Yamzha Tibetan Restaurant We ordered three dishes, a pot of butter tea, and a yogurt. The portions were substantial, and two people were quite full and couldn't finish it all. 📍Dongga Temple About 10 minutes from Seda County, you can drive directly to the temple entrance without walking. Moreover, there's no entrance fee, it's less crowded and the scenery is beautiful, and the white pagoda is very pretty. It was snowing lightly when we visited, and it was truly beautiful. Friends who go to Seda can also visit Dongga Temple. Seda is beautiful. We originally wanted to stay to see the night view before leaving, but since we had to rush back to Chengdu, we only walked around for the allotted 1 hour and then descended the mountain, leaving a bit of regret for next time~

Here's the guide. In the remote western Sichuan plateau, there is a land dyed red by faith—Seda. Here, it is the spiritual destination for practitioners, and a stunning spectacle in the eyes of travelers. Thousands of red wooden houses are built along the mountains, resembling red lotus flowers blooming in the valleys, telling stories about faith and perseverance. 🏞️【Attraction Introduction: A Visual Feast that Shocks the Soul】🏞️ • Larung Gar Buddhist Academy: The world's largest Tibetan Buddhist academy, with tens of thousands of monks' huts densely scattered across the mountains. When night falls, countless lights decorate this red ocean like stars, tranquil and sacred. • Sky Burial Site: A place that profoundly makes one comprehend the cycle of life. Although the ceremony is solemn and somewhat mysterious, it is an indispensable lesson in understanding Tibetan culture. • Mandala: Located at the center of the Buddhist academy, the golden mandala is not only a sacred place for turning prayer wheels and praying for blessings but also the focus of photographers' lenses. Turning the prayer wheels, each rotation is a purification of the soul. 🚗【Transportation Strategy: Crossing Thousands of Mountains and Rivers, Just to Witness Its True Beauty】🚗 • Plane + Car: You can first fly to Chengdu, then take a long-distance bus directly to Seda from Chadianzi Bus Station in Chengdu. Although the journey is long, the scenery along the way is picturesque, enough to comfort the fatigue of the journey. • Self-driving: Recommended for those who seek freedom and adventure. Drive along National Highway 317, crossing snow mountains and grasslands, with endless beautiful scenery along the way, but be mindful of driving safety on the plateau. 🍲【Culinary Exploration: The Taste of Tibetan Flavors】🍲 • Tsampa: A simple yet energy-packed Tibetan staple, best accompanied by butter tea, the best replenishment during the journey. • Yak Meat: A delicacy unique to the plateau, with fresh and nutritious meat. Whether stewed or grilled, it is a gourmet dish not to be missed. • Highland Barley Wine: A drink that warms the body and heart, and is the best medium for exchanging feelings with local friends. 📅【Itinerary: Four Days and Three Nights, A Deep Experience Journey】📅 Day 1: Depart from Chengdu, arrive at Seda, acclimatize to the high altitude, and head to the Mandala to watch the sunset in the evening. Day 2: Spend the whole day visiting Larung Gar Buddhist Academy, attend the morning class, and observe the lights at night. Day 3: Visit the Sky Burial Site (respect local customs), free time in the afternoon to experience Tibetan culture and taste local specialties. Day 4: Capture the morning light of the Buddhist academy at dawn, then return to Chengdu, ending the unforgettable journey to Seda. Seda, a place where the soul can find rest, every inch of land is permeated with the power of faith. Here, you can temporarily put aside the hustle and bustle of the world and find inner peace. Bring your camera, pack your bags, and let us embark on this soul-cleansing journey together, capturing those heart-touching moments, making every step of the journey the most precious memory.

📝 Note tips: - Reservation for visit: Advance reservation is required, with both online and offline reservation methods available. - Online reservation : Search for 'Larung Gar Entrance Reservation' on WeChat, where you can book one of three time slots for entry: 9:10 AM, 1:40 PM, and 4:40 PM. The visit is generally 40 minutes long, with the same vehicle for both entry and exit. Tickets are released 54 hours in advance (at 6 PM), so for a visit on the 4th, you need to book precisely at 6 PM on the 1st. - Offline reservation : You can make a reservation on site one day in advance at the Seda County Jinma Grassland Tourist Distribution Center, where the number of tickets for each time slot is limited. If you can't make a reservation, you can also enter through local channels, with costs ranging from 100 to 200 yuan. 📝 Note tips: - Best time to visit: May to October, when the weather is warmer and the mountains are covered with red leaves. 🗓 Itinerary: - Dongga Monastery (over 3 hours) - Seda Sky Burial Platform (2 hours) - Larung Gar Five Sciences Buddhist Academy (2 hours) - Mandala (2 hours): First, visit Dongga Monastery, where marmots appear from July to October. Then return to the foot of the Buddhist Academy for lunch, followed by a brief stop before heading to the Sky Burial Platform to learn about the Tibetan sky burial customs. Afterwards, proceed to the Five Sciences Buddhist Academy, stroll along the academy's paths, and experience the monks' way of practice. As night falls, you can stand on the platform beside the Mandala to overlook the entire valley and enjoy the quiet, dazzling night. 📝 Note tips: - Larung Gar Five Sciences Buddhist Academy is a place of religious activities, and it is important to respect local religious beliefs during your visit. - Flying drones is prohibited in the Buddhist Academy. - Be sure to keep warm and protect yourself from the sun. - The average altitude of Seda is around 4,000 meters, so always pay attention to your physical condition. - Private vehicles are not allowed to enter, and you need to park your vehicle in advance at the Luoruo Town parking lot and take the shuttle bus from the distribution center.