The Chonggye Tombs are the burial mounds of Tibet's early kings, rising from the floor of the Chonggye valley about 20 kilometres south of Tsetang. There are nine mounds in total, the largest of which stands about 13 metres high and 130 metres across — substantial earthworks for a region at 3,500 metres altitude. A small Bon monastery sits on top of the largest tomb, adding a layer of religious history to the archaeological.
The site is rarely crowded and has a quality of stillness unusual for major historical attractions. Pilgrims come to circumambulate the mounds, and the walk takes about 45 minutes. Bring binoculars if you have them — eagles and lammergeiers can often be spotted riding the thermals above the valley walls. The combination of landscape, silence, and historical weight makes this one of the most affecting sites in the Shannan region.