Nestled along the Sino-Tibetan Highway in Chozikha Township, Mangkang County, the Chuzikha Hot Springs (Quzika Hot Springs, 曲孜卡温泉) are one of Eastern Tibet’s most enchanting natural wonders. Known for their healing waters, dramatic mountain scenery, and deep-rooted legends, these hot springs offer a unique blend of wellness, culture, and travel experience in Tibet.
With 108 natural spring eyes, varying temperatures, and breathtaking views of Dameyong Snow Mountain, Chuzikha (Quzika) Hot Springs have long been treasured by locals and are now emerging as a popular destination for travelers exploring eastern Tibet.
The Legend of the 108 Sacred Springs
According to local legend, the 108 hot springs of Chuzikha (Quzika) were formed from the tears of the Goddess Dameyong. Each tear became a spring eye, giving the site spiritual significance alongside its natural beauty. In Tibetan culture, the number 108 holds profound symbolic meaning, often associated with purification and spiritual completeness.
This legend adds a sacred dimension to the hot springs, making them not only a place for physical healing but also a site of cultural and spiritual resonance.
Water Temperature and Healing Properties
The springs at Chuzikha (Quzika) vary widely in temperature and flow, generally ranging from 20°C to 50°C, while some sources reach extreme temperatures of up to 80°C. Remarkably, a few springs are even hotter than the local boiling point.
Because of this, local residents do not boil water for daily use. Instead, they collect water directly from the hotter springs. Tea brewed with this mineral-rich hot spring water is said to have a distinctive taste that locals cherish.
Different temperatures are believed to offer different medicinal benefits, particularly for skin conditions and joint discomfort, making Chuzikha (Quzika) Hot Springs a traditional destination for natural therapy and recovery.
A Scenic Paradise Beneath Dameyong Snow Mountain
Set against the majestic backdrop of Dameyong Snow Mountain, the Chuzikha (Quzika) Hot Springs are surrounded by open grasslands, rolling hills, and pastoral landscapes.
- Spring, summer, and autumn transform the area into a lush and peaceful highland retreat
- Winter offers a magical experience—soaking in hot springs while snow falls gently around you
When outdoor temperatures drop below 0°C, warm vapor rises from the springs, creating thick mist that blankets the area. The result is a dreamlike scene, often described as a fairy-tale world in Tibet.
The most comfortable and popular travel season is March to September, when the climate is mild and ideal for sightseeing, relaxation, and holidays.
Hot Spring Facilities and Tourism Development
In recent years, Mangkang County has developed Chuzikha (Quzika) Hot Springs into a tourism and holiday resort. The area now offers:
- Comfortable hotels and visitor facilities
- Indoor hot spring pools
- A 600-square-meter outdoor open-air hot spring pool
- Dedicated areas for bathing, relaxation, and recuperation
This development has made Chuzikha (Quzika) one of the most complete hot spring destinations in Eastern Tibet, suitable for both short stops and extended wellness stays.
In the evenings, visitors can enjoy authentic Tibetan ethnic songs and dances, adding a cultural highlight to the hot spring experience.
Travel Tips for Visiting Chuzikha (Quzika) Hot Springs
- Indoor hot spring entrance fee: 10 yuan per person
- Distance from Yanjing Town: Approximately 15 kilometers
- Transportation: Easily accessible by road; suitable for self-driving or rented cars
The location along National Highway 214 makes Chuzikha (Quzika) Hot Springs a convenient stop for travelers journeying between Tibet and Yunnan.
Honglashan Tunnel Ruins: A Historical Landmark Nearby
On the eastern slopes of Honglashan Mountain in Chuzikha (Quzika) Township lies the Honglashan Tunnel Ruins, an important historical site linked to the construction of the Sino-Tibetan Highway.
Built by the 18th Army, the tunnel features:
- Arch-shaped design
- 6.8 meters in height
- 13.9 meters in width
- 141 meters in length
The exterior is constructed with brick, while the interior is reinforced with cement beams. Remarkably, this tunnel remains a functional passage on National Highway 214 today, serving as both a transportation route and a symbol of early Tibetan infrastructure development.