Bönri Sacred Mountain
བོན་རི།
One of Bön's most important sacred mountains. The circuit path overlooks the confluence of the Yarlung Tsangpo and Niyang rivers, and on clear days you can see Namcha Barwa.
Bönri Sacred Mountain lies southeast of Nyingchi Town in Bayi District, on the north bank of the Yarlung Tsangpo, at an elevation of about 4,500 meters. It is the sacred mountain of Bön, Tibet's indigenous religion, and according to tradition it is where the founder Tonpa Shenrab Miwoche subdued demons. Like Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar, it is a major Bön pilgrimage site. Several Bön monasteries and meditation caves sit at the foot of the mountain and on its slopes, and the summit includes sacred sites such as the Bönri Sacred Spring. Visitors can view the mountain from its base or walk the circuit. The full kora takes 1 to 2 days, passing primeval forest, prayer flags and many mani stone piles. From the ridge you can overlook the confluence of the two rivers, and on clear days you can see Namcha Barwa. Note: Bön circumambulation goes counterclockwise, the opposite of Tibetan Buddhism, so follow its direction when walking with believers. There are no commercial facilities along the route, so hire a local guide and bring your own equipment and food. In the rainy season the trails are muddy and slippery, and leeches are present.
Opening hours
All day (daytime recommended for the mountain circuit)
Nearby sights
- Yani National Wetland Park
- Gala Peach Blossom Village
- Giant Cypress Park (King Cypress)
- Niyang Pavilion
- Lamaling Monastery
- Biri Sacred Mountain Boardwalk
- Bayi Town (Nyingchi City)
- Millennium Walnut King