Danba

Danba County: The Valley of the Queen

Danba lies in the deep valleys of the southeast Tibetan Plateau. It is under the administration of Ganzi Tibetan Prefecture, located 150km to the south and 350km from Chengdu to the east.

Danba, known as Rongdrak in Tibetan, is one of the eighteen principalities or kingdoms (queendoms) of Gyelmo Rong or Gyelrong. The name Gyelmo Rong can be translated as “Valley of the Queen” or “Queendom,” which hints at the significant history of the region having been ruled by women. The full name “Gyelmo Tsawa Rong” means “The Hot Valley of the Queen in the East” in Tibetan.

Cultural Heritage and Natural Beauty

Danba is famous for many distinctive features, including its dramatic stone watchtowers in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, traditionally dressed exceptionally beautiful women, stone and wooden traditional houses, highland corn fields, and much more.

Danba County is located in a narrow valley with buildings situated on the banks of the river that cuts through the town. The county seat itself is similar to other regular Chinese towns, but the stunning attractions scattered around the area include several famous villages that are must-visit destinations.

Notable Villages

Jiaju Village

Jiaju was proclaimed as the most beautiful village in China. It’s situated on hills across a large valley, with about 150 houses spread throughout the area. You can spend an entire day wandering around the village and exploring local Tibetan houses with their beautiful interiors.

Zhonglu Village

A narrow, steep road brings you to this ethnic village, which is less visited than Jiaju but equally beautiful. The village is surrounded by forest, making it particularly interesting for nature lovers.

Suopo Village

This village is most famous for its numerous ancient watchtowers built from stone and mud. These structures are more than one thousand years old and were originally established to exorcise demons, and later to protect the villagers from enemies.

A Living Museum of Tibetan Culture

Danba represents a remarkable preservation of traditional Tibetan architecture and culture, where ancient building techniques and customs continue to thrive in one of the most scenic valleys of the Tibetan Plateau. The region’s unique history as a queendom adds an additional layer of cultural significance, making it one of the most fascinating destinations for understanding the diversity of Tibetan civilization.