King Zang’s Tomb

　　Introduction　　King Zang’s Tomb is located 1 kilometer north of Daxawu Village, Taoyan Township, Zhouqu County, with the full name “Zang-Molim Cemetery.” Situated within an orchard in Daxawu Village, this cemetery is the family burial ground of the first generation of Zang-Molim. He was once the regent of Tibet, earning the title “King of Zang,” and established the Tsomoling succession system, which brought fame to his hometown throughout the Tibetan region.

　　      The First Tsomoling, Ngawang Tsultrim, became a monk at the age of 7. At 33, he went to Tibet for further studies, entering Sera Monastery to study Buddhist scriptures and doctrines. Due to his diligence and dedication, he was promoted to the abbot of the monastery. In 1762, he was summoned to Beijing to serve as the abbot and khenpo of the Yonghe Temple for 16 years, earning the deep appreciation of Emperor Qianlong, who granted him the title “Khenpo Nomihan.” In 1777, after the death of the Tibetan regent, Ngawang Tsultrim was appointed by imperial decree to go to Tibet as the 12th King of Zang. He also served as the spiritual teacher of the 8th Dalai Lama and held a position at the Tsomoling of Ganden Monastery in Tibet. In 1778, he became the 61st Triwa of Ganden Monastery. After assuming the role of regent, Ngawang Tsultrim governed effectively, gaining widespread support and respect from all sectors. He passed away in 1791 at the age of 71. His family brought his ashes back to their hometown for burial, hence the name King Zang’s Tomb.

　　      The ruins of King Zang’s Tomb cover an area of 4,800 square meters. The tomb area originally had two main halls of the King Zang Temple. The tombs within King Zang’s Tomb house cremated remains, traditionally arranged with males on the left and females on the right. It is said that the site contains the remains of nineteen generations of the family descending from the First Tsomoling, Ngawang Tsultrim, making it a sacred place devoutly worshipped by Tibetan people and Buddhist followers. The area surrounding King Zang’s Tomb boasts a serene environment, lush trees, and the gentle sound of flowing springs, leaving pilgrims enchanted.

　　 Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu