Tibetan Kings' Tombs: Tibet's Ancient Royal Legacy in Shannan
The Chongye Burial Mounds—also known as the Tombs of the Tibetan Kings in Qonggyai County within the Shannan Prefecture—prioritize raw heritage over commercialization. For archaeology enthusiasts, this means wandering unspoiled ruins, tracing weathered carvings, and connecting with Tibet's Tubo Dynasty past without the distractions of overdevelopment.
Located at the foot of Muri Mountain, with the meandering Yarlung River flowing gently in front, the tombs boast a prime location that follows ancient Tibetan feng shui principles—"backing onto mountains and facing water." Covering a sprawling 3.85 square kilometers, the site is a striking blend of man-made structures and natural beauty. From a distance, the tombs look like low, rounded hills, their rammed earth walls softened by centuries of wind and rain, seamlessly merging with the surrounding landscape. But get closer, and you'll realize these are no ordinary mounds—they're the final resting places of 21 Tubo Dynasty rulers, their wives, and high-ranking officials, spanning the 7th to 9th centuries.
The history behind these tombs is as fascinating as their appearance. Built during the Tubo Dynasty's golden age, they tell the story of Tibet's first centralized kingdom—one that forged alliances with China's Tang Dynasty and laid the groundwork for Tibetan culture as we know it. While most Tibetans practice sky burial today, these earth mounds reveal a different funerary tradition, rooted in the ancient Bon faith. Archaeologists believe Bon priests oversaw the burials, which included sacrificial offerings, offering a rare window into pre-Buddhist spiritual practices. Among these confirmed tombs, two stand out: the tomb of Songtsen Gampo, Tibet's most revered ruler, topped with a small Nyingmapa Temple, and the tomb of Trisong Detsen, a powerful leader who promoted Buddhism, perched high on Muri Mountain's slopes. Climbing to Trisong Detsen's tomb will be rewarded with the panoramic views of the Qonggyai Valley that will leave you breathless—both from the altitude and the scenery.
Conclusion
Wandering among the mounds, you can almost feel the weight of history: the royal processions, the ancient rituals, and the stories of kings who shaped Tibet's destiny. Add this ancient royal complex to your Tibet itinerary, and discover a side of the plateau that's as fascinating as it is timeless.
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35 Comment ON "Tibetan Kings' Tombs: Tibet's Ancient Royal Legacy in Shannan"
Asked by Liliana Me** from Macau
plan a 7-8days trip for me and my boyfriend in April
Hi! I would like to plan a 7-8days trip for me and my boyfriend in April (3rd to 10th ideally) to Nepal, Tibet, and, if possible, Bhutan. Do you think it would be doable? Based on what I read, there are some places/things to do to consider: Nepal: Everest Base Camp trek and the Annapurna Circuit, ancient temples, sacred sites like Lumbini, Kathmandu, Tibet: The Potala Palace in Lhasa and the Jokhang Temple. eventually the holy Mount Kailash or the high-altitude plains. Bhutan: Thimphu, Paro, and the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery. To take part in cultural traditions, yoga, meditation... Of course I am open to any recommendations you could make. For your reference, we are both based in Asia: him, in Bangkok and myself in Macau. Thank you so much for the information you could provide and, if possible, an estimated budget for your offer.
Asked by Ke** from Singapore
Cycling Tour to Mt Kailash
Hi , we are planning a Cycling Trip once Tibet opens for Tourism. The plan is we shall arrive to Kathmandu , travel to the border and enter via Kerung. Can you pls send a day to day Itinerary starting from Kerung - Lake Manasarovar - Darchen - Asthapath. We shall go around Kailash on foot and resume Cycling back to Kerung. We are a Group of 6-8 persons. Thanks Pls send ur reply to Kevin
Asked by Debo** from USA
Please can you tell me the prices and dates for the Tibet Luxury Tour.
Also, could you please provide a detailed itinerary - I want to see how many hours are spent on buses/vehicles. Thank you! Deborah
Asked by S** from HongKong
Tibet Tour from HK
May I know if holding Mainland Travel Permit for HK Residents. is it also need to get the visa permit to Tibet and what is the procedure if need to apply? Thank you
Asked by Na** from USA
Is Kailash Mansarovar Trip open for Indian Passport Holder?
Is it open for Indian Passport Holder?
Asked by A** from Singapore
Enquiry on private tour
We are planning a trip from Hong Kong to Tibet during the 12th to 21st of April. We want a private tour that covers all the scenic places as well as the EBC. Please advise an itinerary along with the cost breakdown. Thanks.
Asked by Na** from Canada
We would like to take the train from Xining to Lhasa
Asked by Gr** from Canada
The "Tibet Entry Permit" should be apply
Asked by Tam** from Singapore
Sightseeing Potala Palace
Asked by Ka** from Singapore
plan to travel to Mount Kailash