Sun and Moon Mountain
Qinghai Sheng
Sun and Moon Mountain, also known as Riyue Mountain or Nyima Dawa La in Tibetan, is a mountain pass situated at 3,399 meters above sea level in Qinghai Province, China. It serves as a natural boundary separating the Qinghai Lake basin from the Huangshui River basin and divides Qinghai into pastoral and agricultural zones. This pass is historically significant as part of the Southern Silk Road and the Tang-Tibet Ancient Road, making it a key transit point for multi-ethnic groups. The Daotang River flows westward from the pass into Qinghai Lake, an unusual direction in the region. The mountain is culturally renowned for its association with Princess Wencheng, who, according to legend, smashed a magic mirror here when she could only see her own reflection. The river is said to be formed from her tears. Today, two modern temples with murals depicting royal and nomadic life stand at the pass, and the area hosts an annual Flower Song Festival. The mountain’s strategic location and rich cultural heritage make it a unique destination for visitors interested in history, culture, and natural landscapes.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Sun and Moon Mountain is around the 6th day of the 6th lunar month, when the traditional Flower Song Festival is held, offering a vibrant cultural experience. Visitors should consider purchasing tickets or arranging permits in advance if required, especially for access to local temples or festivals. The site is accessible via China National Highway 214, which follows the ancient trade route. Modest accommodations and basic visitor services are available nearby. Dress warmly due to the high altitude and variable weather conditions.
Faits intéressants
- •The Daotang River flowing westward from Sun and Moon Mountain is unusual for the region and is said to originate from Princess Wencheng's tears.
- •Two small modern temples with murals depicting the royal couple and nomadic life have been built on the pass.
- •The mountain pass is a natural boundary dividing Qinghai Province into pastoral and agricultural zones.
- •Sun and Moon Mountain was part of the ancient Southern Silk Road and Tang-Tibet Ancient Road, vital for trade and cultural exchange.
- •An annual Flower Song Festival is held here around the 6th day of the 6th lunar month, celebrating local traditions.
Histoire
Sun and Moon Mountain, historically known as Chiling, has been a significant geographic and cultural landmark since ancient times.
It served as a natural divide between agricultural and pastoral regions in Qinghai and was a crucial passage on the Southern Silk Road and Tang-Tibet Ancient Road.
In 822 AD, the Tang-Tibet peace treaty established a boundary near this area, commemorated by the Tang-Tibet Alliance Stele.
The mountain’s name changed from Chiling to Riyue Mountain during the Tang dynasty, inspired by its distinctive red soil and symbolic sun and moon imagery.
Over centuries, it has remained a vital cultural and trade link between China and Tibet.
Guide du lieu
Sun and Moon Mountain Pass
The mountain pass itself, sitting at 3,399 meters, offers striking views and serves as a natural boundary between different ecological and cultural zones in Qinghai. It is historically significant as a major route connecting central China with Tibet.
Modern Temples at the PassModern era
Two small concrete temples featuring modern murals depicting Princess Wencheng, Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo, and scenes of nomadic life. They symbolize the cultural heritage and ongoing religious significance of the site.
Daotang River
A unique river flowing westward from the pass into Qinghai Lake, unusual in this region where most rivers flow east. According to legend, it was formed from the tears of Princess Wencheng.