Huanglong Valley, the worldclass scenic zone, Wolong Nature Reserve, China's largest natural habitat for giant pandas; Jiuzhaigou, a wonderland on earth; the Miyaluo Scenic Zone, which is famous for its red and yellow leaves and hot springs; all these are located in Aba prefecture on the Southern rim of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and the northwestern part of Sichuan Province.

However, beyond these natural attractions, did you know that there is a place in Aba prefecture that attracts hundreds and thousands of local Tibetans every year? Did you know that there is a place that reserves the most original living style of Tibetans? Did you know that there is a place where you can enjoy the most diversified Tibetan buildings and festival celebrations?

Yes, this is Aba County, the place that harbors the scared mountains and pure land in the heart of Tibetans.

Aba County, located on the Tibetan plateau at an elevation of 3,200 meters, is the largest county in the Aba prefecture and also the second largest Buddhist resort after Lasa in China.

Known as the "little potala palace," Aba is also home to 42 monasteries. And among its 60,110 population, a third are monks.

Tibetan Buddhism, during a long course of history, has been giving out glorious luster in the county. In Aba County, you can almost see all the schools of Tibetan Buddhism, and the routine daily practices of the local monks will bring you closer to the purity of their hearts.

Aba County is also the best place to experience Tibetan culture. Every year, there are countless activities that are initiated by the local Tibetans to memorize and celebrate various festivals.

Zachong Festival, which takes place from September 15 to September 17 according to the lunar calendar every year, is the best opportunity to enjoy the Tibetan culture and customs. During the festival, you will be able to enjoy the quintessence of their religious culture in the county, which include mysterious mask dances, grand religious services, Tangka Paintings, and beautiful mural paintings.

Aba County is also a place to bring you back to the ancient times. Well decorated and colored Tibetan buildings with a thousand years of history will surprise you with both their taste in art and their solid structures. And what expression will you have if you knew that the buildings were simply built by mud?

Dotted throughout the Aqu Valley, together with the natural sightseeing, these Tibetan buildings make a wonderful picture - one that can take your breath away!

Several facts about travelling in Aba

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