Day 5 of the 5-Day Gannan Tour: Sipping Local Brews in Langmusi Town

July 13th – Departing from Aba in the morning, we arrived at Langmusi Town by noon. This is another must-visit pristine town in Gannan, straddling the border of Gansu and Sichuan, with the Bailong River flowing through its heart. Two monasteries face each other across the river. Though small, Langmusi is lively and bustling, where lamas, tourists, and merchants gather, with Tibetan, Mandarin, and various dialects echoing in the air. Along the Bailong River, unique restaurants perch by the water, reminiscent of Dali's scenery. Langmusi consists of two monasteries: the Datsan Langmusi Gerdi Monastery on the Sichuan side and the Sertri Monastery on the Gansu side, collectively known as Langmusi. The highlight of the monastery is the Fifth Gerdan Living Buddha's Mummified Body Hall, where the miraculously preserved remains of a Living Buddha who passed away centuries ago are enshrined. Every hall in the Gerdi Monastery immerses visitors in the mystical tales of religious lore. Hiking through the Namo Grand Canyon, our group sought the secrets of the Bailong River's source and the Fairy Cave. Surrounded by bizarre rock formations and surreal landscapes, the canyon is steeped in fantastical religious legends, including the "Fairy Cave" and "Tiger Cave." Staying overnight in Langmusi, the five of us shared a bottle of barley wine but still craved more, so we asked the shop owner for another two taels, and then another two. Fueled by the drinks, we spoke freely—sharing our Gannan experiences, discussing life ideals, and reminiscing about the bonds formed along the journey. Outside the window, the Bailong River murmured under colorful lights, while inside, newly acquainted travelers clinked glasses amid laughter and chatter. This earthly paradise washed away worldly worries. Tomorrow, we head to Labrang Monastery...