Mount Zhajia Sacred Mountain

Mount Zhajia Sacred Mountain

Mount Zhajia Sacred Mountain is one of the four sacred mountains of Xinlong. Its main peak, split as if by an axe, is steep, majestic, and soars straight into the clouds. Beneath the mountain lies dense forest where a variety of wild animals leap and play. The surrounding peaks are tall and graceful, creating a breathtaking landscape.

The sacred mountain boasts many fascinating legends and uniquely shaped attractions, such as the steep Treasure-Seeking Rock, the mysterious Guixin Crack, the spectacular Gate of the Sacred Mountain, the peculiar Shengzi Pagoda, the alluring Cave of Heaven, and the naturally formed giant butter lamp. Herds of argali sheep in the forest are another highlight of the mountain. These argali are unafraid of people, especially living harmoniously with the monks of the nearby temple. Travelers may witness the touching sight of the sheep feeding from the palms of the monks.

On the eastern side of the mountain lies a dense primeval forest, oval in shape. In the middle of the forest is a mysteriously open elliptical grassland, with a stream quietly flowing along its edge. The grassland blooms with flowers, while rabbits hop about joyfully and argali graze peacefully. Scattered around the grassland are small wooden cabins, creating a scene reminiscent of a fairy tale. This is yet another scenic wonder of the sacred mountain, known locally as "Powa Valley" (a site for Vajrayana practice). This serene forest meadow has been a place of meditation for many eminent monks, and the wooden cabins serve as their retreats. On another grassy area to the east of this meadow, which is flat and platform-like and surrounded by countless prayer flags, lies a site of great renown in Xinlong County — a place where most Tibetan residents of the county bring the bodies of the deceased for sky burial.