Seda Travel Guide

Discover the hidden gems of Seda, China through this comprehensive travel guide. From cultural attractions to natural wonders, this guide covers everything you need to know for an unforgettable trip.


Introduction to Seda

Seda, also known as Sêrtar or Sertar, is a small town located in the Sichuan province of Southwest China. Often referred to as the “Soul of Kham”, Seda is known for its scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage. The town is home to the world’s largest Tibetan Buddhist institute, Larung Gar Buddhist Academy, which makes it a popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists.

List of Places to Visit in Seda

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Larung Gar Buddhist Academy - the largest Tibetan Buddhist institute in the world, home to thousands of monks and nuns.
  • Jonang Temple - a 400-year-old temple known for its unique architecture and stunning views.
  • Chengduo Temple - another ancient temple located on a hill, with views of the valley below.
  • Seda County Museum - a great place to learn about the local history and culture of Seda.

Natural Attractions of Seda: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Seda Grasslands - vast stretches of green grasslands that are breathtakingly beautiful and serene.
  • Jiaju Tibetan Village - a picturesque village nestled in the mountains, with traditional Tibetan houses and stunning views.
  • Changping Valley - a scenic valley with crystal-clear streams, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
  • Pengcuo Scenic Area - a sacred lake that is surrounded by mountains and is believed to be the origin of the Jinsha River.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Seda

  • Changping Valley Hiking Trail - a 9 km trail through the valley, with stunning views of the waterfalls and streams.
  • Seda Grasslands Hiking Trail - a 10 km trail through the grasslands, with views of the snow-capped mountains in the distance.
  • Pengcuo Lake Circular Trail - a 7 km trail around the lake, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and crystal-clear waters.

Best Things to Do in Seda: Activities and Tours

  • Attend a Buddhist Ceremony at Larung Gar Buddhist Academy - a unique opportunity to witness a traditional Buddhist ceremony.
  • Horseback Riding on Seda Grasslands - an unforgettable experience, riding through the vast stretches of green grasslands.
  • Tibetan Home Visits - learn about the local culture and way of life by visiting a traditional Tibetan home.
  • Stargazing at night - the clear skies of Seda make it an ideal place for stargazing.

Week-Long Itinerary for Seda

Day 1 Arrive in Seda, visit Seda County Museum
Day 2 Visit Jonang Temple and Chengduo Temple
Day 3 Attend a Buddhist Ceremony at Larung Gar Buddhist Academy
Day 4 Hike through Changping Valley
Day 5 Horseback Riding on Seda Grasslands
Day 6 Visit Jiaju Tibetan Village and Pengcuo Scenic Area
Day 7 Depart Seda

Food and Drink Scene of Seda

Must-Try Dishes

  • Yak Butter Tea - a traditional Tibetan drink made from tea leaves and yak butter.
  • Thenthuk - a hearty noodle soup with vegetables and meat.
  • Momo - Tibetan dumplings filled with meat or vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Chang - a fermented drink made from barley, often served at celebrations and festivals.
  • Raksi - a strong alcoholic beverage made from fermented grains.

Where to Stay in Seda: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Larung Gar Guesthouse - located within the Larung Gar Buddhist Academy, offering simple accommodations for visitors.
  • Seda Love Guesthouse - a budget-friendly option located in the heart of Seda.
  • Serdeng Guesthouse - a traditional Tibetan guesthouse with cozy rooms and stunning views.

What to Buy in Seda: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade Tibetan Carpets - intricately woven carpets with traditional Tibetan designs.
  • Seda Yak Wool Products - warm and cozy blankets, scarves, and clothing made from locally sourced yak wool.
  • Thangka Paintings - traditional Tibetan paintings on silk or cotton, often depicting Buddhist deities and stories.

Local Culture and Customs of Seda

  • Respect the Local Culture - be mindful of the local customs and traditions when visiting temples and other cultural attractions.
  • Dress Appropriately - it is recommended to dress modestly and wear comfortable shoes when visiting outdoor attractions.
  • Be Polite - greet locals with a friendly “Tashi Delek” (hello) and “Jakyamasho” (thank you).

Best Time to Visit Seda

The best time to visit Seda is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is mild and the grasslands are green and lush. However, the town can be visited year-round, with autumn and winter offering a unique and beautiful experience.

Do’s and Don’ts of Seda

Do:

  • Respect the Local Customs - be respectful of the local culture and traditions when visiting temples and other cultural sites.
  • Pack Appropriately - bring warm clothing for the cool evenings and comfortable shoes for outdoor activities.
  • Learn Some Mandarin and Tibetan - knowing a few phrases of the local languages can go a long way in communicating with locals.

Don’t:

  • Don’t Disrespect the Locals - be mindful of the local culture and customs, and avoid behavior that may be offensive.
  • Don’t Litter - help keep Seda clean by disposing of trash properly.
  • Don’t Disturb Wildlife - be respectful of the natural environment and avoid disturbing wildlife.

Safety and Health

Safety in Seda

Seda is a relatively safe destination, with low crime rates. However, it is recommended to take precautions such as keeping valuables safe and being aware of your surroundings after dark.

Health in Seda

Altitude sickness can be a concern in Seda, as the town sits at an elevation of over 4,000 meters. Visitors should take it slow and allow time to acclimate to the altitude. In addition, it is recommended to bring any necessary medications and consult with a doctor before traveling.

Getting to Seda: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Seda

  • Yading Airport - located approximately 100 km from Seda, offering flights to major cities in China.

Bus Stations Near Seda

  • Seda Bus Station - located in the town center, offering buses to Chengdu and other nearby destinations.
  • Changdu Bus Station - located approximately 40 km from Seda, offering buses to other destinations in the Sichuan province.

Other Options

Visitors can also hire a private car or take a taxi from Chengdu, which is approximately a 13-hour drive from Seda.

How to Get Around in Seda

Most attractions in Seda are located within walking distance of each other. However, it is possible to rent a bicycle or hire a taxi to visit attractions that are further away.

Where to Go Next from Seda: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Chengdu - the capital of the Sichuan province, known for its spicy cuisine and pandas.
  • Daocheng Yading Nature Reserve - a stunning nature reserve with snow-capped mountains and crystal-clear lakes.
  • Litang - a historical town known for its traditional Tibetan architecture and rich cultural heritage.

Conclusion

Seda is an off-the-beaten-path destination, full of stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. From the world’s largest Buddhist institute to the vast stretches of grasslands, Seda offers something for every type of traveler. With this comprehensive guide, you’re ready to explore this hidden gem of China.

Larung Gar Buddhist Institute Larung Gar Buddhist Institute Vulture in flight during a sky burial Vulture in flight during a sky burial Panorama of Sêrtar, facing north Panorama of Sêrtar, facing north Panorama of Sêrtar, facing south Panorama of Sêrtar, facing south Panorama of Sêrtar, facing east Panorama of Sêrtar, facing east