Zongshan Ancient Fortress (Zongshan Anti-British Resistance Site)

　　The site stands atop the cliffs in the heart of Gyantse’s ancient town. In 1904, 600 British imperialist troops occupied Gampa Dzong and invaded Gyantse from Yadong to the north. They were met with desperate resistance from the local soldiers and civilians at Zongshan. The people of Gyantse built artillery positions on the mountain and fought bravely with homemade guns, rifles, “guduo” (a type of throwing weapon), swords, spears, and bows and arrows. The battle lasted for eight months.

　　One night in early May 1904, over a thousand soldiers and civilians launched a surprise attack on the British forces and annihilated them all. In June, the British sent reinforcements and bombarded the Zongshan artillery positions with heavy artillery. The fortress’s gunpowder magazine was hit by British shells. In their final moments, the defenders continued to resist with stones for three days and nights. In the end, all the brave warriors chose death over surrender, leaping off the cliffs and sacrificing their lives, writing a glorious and tragic chapter in history.

　　The artillery positions used during the anti-British resistance are still preserved on Zongshan. Zongshan was also the site of the former Gyantse Dzong, the administrative center of the old Tibetan government. Four stone tablets from the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty, inscribed by imperial envoys during their border inspections, remain well-preserved and hold significant historical and cultural value. Although the former buildings and artillery positions at the Zongshan Anti-British Resistance Site have been restored, its greatest appeal lies in its history. When ascending Zongshan, take your time—the mountain isn’t high, but be sure to regulate your breathing.

　　Transportation

　　The Zongshan Anti-British Resistance Site is located in the center of Gyantse County. You can take a long-distance bus from Shigatse to Gyantse County and then walk to the site.

　　Address: At the mountaintop behind Palcho Monastery, Gyantse County, Shigatse City

　　Type: Historical Site

　　Recommended Visiting Time: 1 hour

　　Opening Hours:

　　The fortress is not open to the public, but the square in front of it is open all day.

　　Ticket Information:

　　Free entry. The fortress is not open to the public, but the square beneath it is free to visit.