Tsedang Town

Tsedang Town While Maduo might be known as the 'Cradle of Chinese Civilization', Tsedang holds the esteemed title of the 'Birthplace of the Tibetans'. Located about 200 kilometers (125 miles) southeast of Lhasa, it is easily accessible from the Tibetan capital. Rich legends have given rise to a multitude of mystic legends here. Stories tell of a sacred monkey that was married off to a cannibal ogre's beautiful daughter. The daughter in turn gave birth to six monkeys, who in turn had offspring that were human children. These children are fabled to be the original Tibetans.

Tsedang is currently one the largest cities in Tibet, and was also quite the sight to see back in the day. In the 19th century it is said that the town contained a fort, a gompa, a huge bazaar and well over 1000 housing structures.

Tsedang is by far one of the most impressive, breathtaking sites on the list. There are three Monkey Caves hidden in the surrounding rock. These caverns are stamped with Tibet rock paintings and characters. The locale is also home to the first house of the Tibetans. Located in Nedong County, very near to Tsedang, the Nyatru Tsenpo was built for the first rulers of the Tubo Kingdom. Just north of city, legend has it that gods bestowed the rich fields for cultivating crop, thus making it a more permanent settlement.

Also, Tibet's very first monastery is located just 30 kilometers (less than 20 miles) from the city. Samye was founded in 779 by King Trisong Detsen. Closer to the town (about 5 kilometers south) is the Changzhung monastery, which was founded during the reign of the Songsten Gampo. It makes for a great side trip when visiting Tsedang. In town, the reconstructed Gelugpa monastery is a tourist hot spot. It houses a bed and throne that the Dalai Lama used and includes a chapel devoted to the study of medicine.

While in Tsedang, get a good look at how butter tea, the traditional drink of Tibet made from yak's milk, tealeaves and salt, is produced and served. Since the drink is made from rich butter, it was perfect for nomads looking for a warming glass to fulfill their caloric needs in these high altitude regions. If you are brave enough to try the unique concoction, there are several places in town for a cup. Also, the highlands here are known for their delicious barley wine. Make sure to try a glass when in the city.

Getting to Tsedang is about a half a day's worth drive from Lhasa. Many travel companies and coach buses run frequently from the capital to the site. The roads are usually well maintained and offer a great chance to see some of the rural Tibetan countryside any time of year.

 

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