Huangnan རྨ་ལྷོ།Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture

The Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture is located in eastern Qinghai Province, on the northeastern edge of the Tibetan Plateau. As part of the Amdo region of Tibet, Huangnan is renowned for its deeply rooted Tibetan culture, important monasteries, living folk traditions, and rich artistic heritage—especially thangka painting.

Cultural & Spiritual Significance

Huangnan is predominantly inhabited by Amdo Tibetans, whose religious life centers on Tibetan Buddhism, Bon traditions, and village rituals. The prefecture is home to major monasteries such as Longwu (Rebkong) Monastery, an important Gelug institution, and numerous smaller temples scattered across valleys and hills.

The region is internationally recognized as a center of Tibetan thangka art, with Rebkong listed by UNESCO for its Intangible Cultural Heritage status. Traditional arts such as sculpture, mural painting, wood carving, and ritual mask-making remain active and community-based.

Historical Importance

Historically, Huangnan lay along regional trade and pilgrimage routes connecting Amdo, Gansu, and Sichuan. These routes facilitated the spread of Buddhism and artistic traditions, shaping the prefecture’s strong cultural identity.

Natural Landscapes

Huangnan features rolling hills, river valleys, grasslands, and forested mountains, offering gentler terrain compared to higher plateau regions. The altitude is moderate, making it accessible while still providing dramatic Tibetan highland scenery.

Local Life & Festivals

Life in Huangnan revolves around monasteries, farming, and herding. The prefecture hosts distinctive festivals, including the Rebkong Shaman Festival, monastery cham dances, prayer festivals, and seasonal village rituals that preserve ancient spiritual traditions.

Travel Experience

Huangnan is ideal for travelers seeking authentic Amdo Tibetan culture, traditional arts, and spiritual festivals without entering the Tibet Autonomous Region. It is especially appealing for cultural travelers, photographers, and art enthusiasts.

Key Places in Huangnan

Rebkong (Tongren) – Cultural and artistic center

Longwu Monastery – Major Tibetan Buddhist monastery

Thangka Painting Villages – Living art communities

Traditional Tibetan Villages – Stone houses and monasteries

Sacred Hills & Valleys – Sites of local pilgrimage

Administrative Division Of Rebkong Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture