Name: Tsedang

Chinese name: 泽当 – རྩེ་ཐང་|

Region: Tibet Autonomous Region

Status: Village

Population: 58,000 inhabitants

Area: 7,000 km²

Tsedang is a small village located just over 160 km southeast of Lhasa in Tibet. This high-altitude town is currently the capital of Shannan and forms one large city with Nedong.

History

Tsedang was once the capital of the Yarlung dynasty and consequently an important city.

Today

Regarded as the cradle of Tibetan civilization, the city of Tsedang enjoys a fantastic natural and cultural environment. Its river valleys open onto magnificent lakes with crystalline waters surrounded by mountains.

Tsedang also holds an important place in Tibetan culture and houses several significant structures, including Yongbulakhang, a fortified palace whose history is linked to the first mythical king, Nyatri Tsenpo. The Samye Monastery is also a must-see in Tsedang. Tibet's first monastery, it stands outside the city but is well worth the visit for its authentic architecture featuring a large circular palisade.

Other points of interest in Tsedang include Trandrak Monastery, built in the 7th century, representing the earliest Buddhist architecture in Tibet constructed during the Tubo period, and the tombs of Tibetan kings, the largest of which belongs to Songsten Gampo.

The streets of Tsedang, still preserved from urbanization, will immerse you in a unique world at the heart of Tibetan life. Tsedang is truly an essential stop during a trip to Tibet to discover Tibetan culture and understand its origins**.**

Climate

Located in central Tibet, Tsedang enjoys very sunny days. The average annual temperature ranges from 7°C to 9°C. Winters are extremely cold with below-freezing temperatures, while summers are relatively mild and cool.

The best time to visit Tsedang and its region spans from April to November. July and August, however, occasionally experience intense rainfall.

From Lhasa, buses and minibuses travel to Tsedang daily. The journey takes approximately 3 hours.

Buses from Gyantse also shuttle between the two cities.

The village can be explored on foot by wandering through its streets. Minibuses or 4×4 vehicles are available to take you to the various tourist sites around the city.

What to Do in Tsedang?

• Stop at the Yongbulakhang Palace, the city's significant fortified sanctuary.
• Venture out to discover Samye Monastery, Tibet's first monastery.
• Visit Trandrak Monastery, an example of Tibet's earliest Buddhist architecture.
• Enjoy a short cruise along the Yarlung Tsangpu River and appreciate the majestic landscape unfolding before you.