Moska
莫斯卡
A remote high mountain pasture village in northern Danba, called 'the hidden realm of King Gesar,' known for alpine meadows, U-shaped glacial valleys and Gesar legends.
Moska lies in Dandong Township in northern Danba County, at about 3,900 meters (12,800 feet). Stone houses and tents of Tibetan herders are scattered across the high pasture surrounded by mountains. The area is part of the Moska Nature Reserve, and it retains typical U-shaped glacial valleys, alpine meadows and wetlands. Local tradition includes the epic of King Gesar and the storytelling that goes with it, so the place is known as 'the hidden realm of King Gesar.' The village has sacred mountains, mani stone cairns and monasteries associated with Gesar. The area is remote and sees few visitors, so it suits travellers interested in unspoiled pastoral culture and high-mountain hiking. You can enter from Dandong Township along a mountain road, walk across the pastures to see yak herds and snow peaks on the grassland, and stay overnight in a herder's home. There is no entry fee. Getting there: the county town to Dandong Township takes about 2 hours, and from there the road to Moska is gravel, so a four-wheel-drive vehicle with a local driver is recommended. The road may be cut off in the rainy season. Note: the altitude is high, and supplies and phone reception are limited, so bring your own food, medicine and warm clothing. Respect herders' way of life and religious sites.
Opening hours
All day (roads may be cut during rain or snow season)