Purang

Purang, also known as Taktselung, is a small town located in the southwestern part of Tibet Autonomous Region, China. Situated near the border with India, Purang serves as a significant religious and cultural hub for Tibetan Buddhists and pilgrims. The town is part of the Ngari Prefecture, an area characterized by high-altitude desert landscapes and rugged terrain.

Historically, Purang has been a vital stop on the ancient trade routes connecting Tibet with India and Central Asia. It is renowned for its religious sites, including the Zur Ngari Monastery, an important monastery founded during the 11th century. The monastery, perched on a hill overlooking the town, is an important center for Tibetan Buddhist practice and study.

One of Purang's most notable features is its proximity to Mount Kailash, a sacred peak revered in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon. Pilgrims often travel through Purang en route to Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar, making it a focal point of spiritual tourism in the region.

The town's economy largely relies on pilgrimage tourism, trade, and local agriculture. Due to its remote location, accessibility can be limited, especially during harsh weather conditions. The region's altitude exceeds 4,000 meters (13,000 feet), contributing to its challenging environment but also to its unique high-altitude ecosystems.

In recent years, efforts to improve infrastructure and promote tourism have increased Purang's profile as a cultural and spiritual destination. Nonetheless, it remains a relatively small and remote settlement characterized by its deep spiritual significance and distinctive high-altitude landscape.