Golden Pagoda

金塔

Located on the Sun and Moon Mountain, this sacred Tibetan pagoda marks the ancient boundary between Han and Tibetan regions. The pagoda offers spiritual significance and stunning views of Qinghai Lake and the surrounding plateau.

Things to do

• Circumambulate the Golden Pagoda — Walk clockwise around the sacred pagoda while spinning prayer wheels, a traditional Buddhist practice that accumulates merit.
• Sunrise viewing from Sun and Moon Mountain — Arrive early to witness the golden light illuminating Qinghai Lake and the Tibetan plateau from the mountain's eastern ridge.
• Visit the Han-Tibetan boundary marker — Explore the historical stone marker and interpretive area showing where ancient Han Chinese and Tibetan territories met.
• Photography at Qinghai Lake viewpoint — Capture panoramic views of China's largest saltwater lake from the elevated vantage point near the pagoda.
• Prayer flag installation ceremony — Purchase and install colorful prayer flags at designated spots around the pagoda while learning about Buddhist symbolism.
• Mountain hiking trails — Trek the alpine grassland paths surrounding Sun and Moon Mountain to experience the plateau ecosystem and local shepherding communities.

Food to try

• Yak butter tea (酥油茶) — A traditional Tibetan beverage made with yak butter, salt, and tea that provides warmth and sustenance at high altitude.
• Tsampa (糌粑) — Roasted barley flour mixed with yak butter and tea, a staple Tibetan food that's quick to prepare and highly nutritious.
• Qinghai lake fish (青海湖鱼) — Fresh-caught local fish from Qinghai Lake, often prepared steamed or in hearty soups at nearby restaurants.
• Momos (饺子) — Tibetan dumplings filled with yak meat or vegetables, steamed and served with spicy sauce at local eateries.
• Highland barley noodles (青稞面) — Noodles made from local barley grain, served in warming broths perfect for the cool mountain climate.

Local customs & good to know

• Respectful pagoda etiquette — Always walk clockwise around the pagoda, avoid pointing at religious objects, and dress modestly when visiting this sacred site.
• High altitude preparation — The site sits at approximately 3,280 meters elevation; allow time to acclimate and stay hydrated to avoid altitude sickness.
• Photography sensitivities — Ask permission before photographing monks or local Tibetan people, and be aware that some sacred ceremonies may restrict photography.
• Lunar calendar festivals — Visit during Tibetan New Year (Losar) or full moon celebrations for special religious ceremonies and larger pilgrim gatherings at the pagoda.