Foto: One of the monasteries of Langmusi (bron: Ronald van der Veer)
China - Langmusi, also known by its Tibetan name Taktsang Lhamo, is a picturesque village at 3,325 meters altitude on the eastern edge of the Tibetan Plateau. It lies on the border of the Chinese provinces Gansu and Sichuan, with the river running through the village serving as a natural boundary. The name literally means "Tiger Cave and Fairy," referring to sacred caves in the nearby Lhamo Gorge. Langmusi is especially known for its two prominent Tibetan Buddhist monasteries: the Sertri Monastery in Gansu and the Kirti Monastery in Sichuan. Both belong to the Gelugpa school of Tibetan Buddhism. The Sertri Monastery, founded in the 13th century, is located on a hill north of the village. It is a serene place with a large chorten (stupa) and various temples. Around the monastery runs a pilgrimage route (kora) still actively used by devotees. On a nearby hill, traditional sky burials take place, where bodies are left to vultures, a practice stemming from Buddhist beliefs in reincarnation and the impermanence of the body. The Kirti Monastery, founded in 1748, is the larger of the two and houses about 1,000 monks. The complex includes multiple temples, a philosophical institute, a Kalachakra institute, and a medical school. Behind the monastery lies the Namo Gorge, a popular hiking destination with sacred caves and picturesque landscapes. Langmusi is not only a spiritual center but also a gateway to the natural beauty of the region. Visitors can enjoy hikes in the surrounding mountains, horseback rides, or experience the local nomadic culture. The village itself offers a mix of Tibetan, Han Chinese, and Hui influences, visible in the architecture, cuisine, and religious practices.
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