Located in the western part of Sichuan Province, Baiyu County is one of the most important centers of the Nyingma (Ningma) School of Tibetan Buddhism, also known as the Red Sect. Surrounded by the magnificent landscapes of the Tibetan Plateau, Baiyu is famous for its ancient monasteries, strong Buddhist traditions, high-altitude scenery, and pristine natural environment.
The county is home to several large and influential Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, attracting monks, pilgrims, researchers, and travelers seeking to experience authentic Tibetan culture away from modern urban life.
With its combination of sacred Buddhist sites and spectacular natural landscapes, Baiyu County is one of the most fascinating destinations in western Sichuan.
Baiyu Monastery: A Historic Center of Nyingma Buddhism
Baiyu Monastery is one of the most important Nyingma monasteries in the border region of Sichuan, Qinghai, and Tibet. Founded in 1857, the monastery is located along the traditional routes connecting Sichuan and Tibet.
The monastery became accessible by road only in the late 1970s, when a highway was built to connect it with Chengdu, approximately 991 kilometers away.
Known as the mother monastery of the Baiyu Buddhist tradition, Baiyu Monastery is the largest monastery in Baiyu County. Its impressive complex includes:
* Seven main Buddhist halls
* Three smaller temples
* Three stupas
* Eight large prayer halls
* Monastic residences for more than 1,000 monks
The monastery houses nearly 10,000 Buddha statues and many precious Buddhist artifacts. Among its most treasured relics are two sacred stupas dedicated to respected Buddhist masters, one of which is said to contain a Buddha tooth relic.
Inside the lecture hall, visitors can admire a beautifully crafted collection of Tibetan scriptures donated by overseas Tibetan communities.
In 1994, Baiyu Monastery was officially listed as a National Cultural Heritage Site.
Buddhist Activities at Baiyu Monastery
Every year, the monastery hosts important Buddhist activities, including the traditional 45-day summer retreat held in July and August.
During this period, thousands of monks and devotees gather to worship Buddha statues, offer Hada (traditional Tibetan ceremonial scarves), and participate in religious ceremonies. The atmosphere is one of the most impressive expressions of Tibetan Buddhist devotion.
Yaqing Monastery: The World’s Largest Female Buddhist Community
Located in Changtuo Village, Acha Town, Baiyu County, Yaqing Monastery is one of the most unique Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in China.
Situated at an altitude of approximately 4,000 meters, the monastery belongs to the Nyingma School of Tibetan Buddhism and is built on the vast Changtai Grassland, where the Changqu River flows through the valley.
The monastery is divided naturally into two areas:
* The eastern side of the river is a basin and wetland area known as the Juemu (female practitioner) area
* The western hillside is the monk area
Thousands of small wooden houses built along the hillside create one of the most distinctive landscapes on the Tibetan Plateau.
A Sacred Place for Female Buddhist Practitioners
Yaqing Monastery is especially famous for its large community of female Buddhist practitioners, known in Tibetan as “Juemu” (觉姆).
According to estimates, tens of thousands of female practitioners have gathered here to study Buddhism and practice meditation. Their simple lifestyle, dedication, and spiritual discipline have made Yaqing Monastery an important symbol of Tibetan Buddhist culture.
Living far from modern society, these practitioners devote themselves to Buddhist teachings, meditation, and daily temple activities. Their commitment reflects the Buddhist principles of compassion, wisdom, and equality.
Yaqing Monastery represents the unique role of women in Tibetan Buddhism, where female practitioners are respected as important participants in spiritual practice.
Spiritual Experience at Yaqing Monastery
Visitors to Yaqing Monastery can experience a deeply peaceful atmosphere surrounded by high mountains, grasslands, and Buddhist traditions.
The monastery provides a rare opportunity to observe Tibetan Buddhist life, meditation practices, and the relationship between humans and nature on the Tibetan Plateau.
Gartok Monastery: A Mysterious Nyingma Buddhist Temple
Hidden deep within the mountains of Baiyu County, Gartok Monastery is considered one of the most mysterious and remote monasteries of the Nyingma School.
Surrounded by untouched natural landscapes, the monastery preserves traditional Tibetan Buddhist practices and offers visitors a glimpse into the spiritual life of remote plateau communities.
Chaqing Songduo Nature Reserve: A Paradise for Wildlife
Located about 40 kilometers southeast of Baiyu County, Chaqing Songduo Nature Reserve is a national-level nature reserve dedicated to protecting forests, wildlife, and fragile alpine ecosystems.
Covering approximately 1,436.826 square kilometers, the reserve is home to many rare animals and is considered one of China’s important biodiversity areas.
The reserve mainly protects species such as:
* White-lipped deer
* Golden eagle
* Leopard
* Other rare plateau wildlife
The area contains:
* 8 species of national first-class protected animals
* 23 species of national second-class protected animals
* 4 species of provincial protected animals
Among them, the white-lipped deer population is particularly significant, with the area containing one of the world’s most concentrated habitats for this rare species.
Eco-Tourism and Nature Exploration
With its rich biodiversity, spectacular forests, mountains, and wildlife resources, Chaqing Songduo Nature Reserve offers opportunities for:
* Eco-tourism
* Wildlife observation
* Nature photography
* Scientific research
* Outdoor exploration
The reserve serves as both a natural paradise for visitors and an important research base for studying biodiversity and plateau ecosystems.
Why Visit Baiyu County?
Baiyu County offers a rare combination of Tibetan Buddhist culture and untouched natural landscapes.
From the historic halls of Baiyu Monastery, to the unique spiritual community of Yaqing Monastery, and the rich wildlife of Chaqing Songduo Nature Reserve, Baiyu provides travelers with an authentic experience of western Sichuan’s Tibetan heritage.
For those interested in Tibetan Buddhism, cultural exploration, high-altitude landscapes, and off-the-beaten-path adventures, Baiyu County is one of the most rewarding destinations in China’s Tibetan regions.