The caves of Dungkar & Piyang are located just 40 kilometres northeast of the Guge Kingdom in the western Tibet. These caves are discovered in the early 1990s. It is well known for its extensive cave paintings and is significant in the rejuvenation of Buddhism in Tibet in the 10th century.
The caves and its painting are possibly the oldest in the Ngari Region. The painting style is significantly influenced by the fusion of the old Karmiri-Central Asian Style. According to some historian, during the Muslim invasion of North Indian plans, significant number of Buddhist has come to the Guge kingdom for safety. The art of the wall painting is different from the rest of Tibet.
There are three caves in a side valley before the inner canyon. Out of which the best preserved is the mandala cave. The Dungkar also has ruins of monastery above the town.
A few Kilometers west in the Village of Piyang has caves worth a detour. At the foot of the broad ridge, There are thousands of honeycombed caves topped with ruins of the monastery. Out all there are two caves with well-preserved murals.
The Entrance fees for the Dungkar and Piyang are usually included in 200 RMB fee for Tholing and Guge. At Piyang, the caretaker will charge another ¥20 per person. This money goes to the Village common fund.
Now all the roads are paved; you would not need a 4WD car to reach the area. Along the way, there are few stunning Viewpoint to the Himalayan and Clay Forest.
Travel Guide to Dungkar & Piyang
Before Dungkar & Piyang Caves are located in the western remote region of Tibet in Ngari Region. If you are entering into Tibet from either Kyirong or Lhasa. You will at least need 17 to 20 days to enjoy a proper tour to these Cave. The majority of the tour to Cave includes the Mount Kailash, and the Guge Kingdom.
To Travel to this region in far western Tibet, you will need to get the Tibet Travel Permit, Alien’s Permit, Military Permit, and Border Permit. We will take care of all the permits required for the journey to Tibet.
You can also choose to visit these caves on your way from Kashgar to Tibet.
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