Photos courtesy of John Perry

Backroads China
Days 12/13-Zhongdian

Zhongdian - Only recently opened to foreigners, the Zhongdian Valley is a center of Tibetan Culture, with a large, recently restored Buddhist monastery and extensive rangelands where local pastoralists graze yak and ponies. Outdoor billiards tables, classical Tibetan village and monastic architecture, and Chinese karaoke restaurants in the New Town create a city of startling contrast. In Zhongdian, we'll take time to explore both by coach and on foot. Since this area is only recently opened, many opportunities exist to explore places little known to Westerners.