"Jinta Temple Caves" Matisi Off The Beaten Path Tip by mke1963

The Jinta Caves are strictly off-limits and lie well to the southeast of the main Matisi complex. However, if you are a researcher (possibly with links through CASS or the Dunhuang Academy) or make prior arrangements (i.e. before coming to China), a visit may be possible in summer. The valley is inaccessible from about November through to May because of snow.

The site is a series of three caves high up on the cliff face, above the remains of a destroyed Tibetan monastery. (If you are looking for the monastery, don't bother....long gone, although some bricks remain where the car parks).

The scultures and frescos are staggering, easily matching the best at Dunhuang or Maijishan. However, the ligthig is poor so you will need a flashlight. There is simply too much to describe in these small caves. There are believed to be five layers of frescos. The significance of this site is such that two researchers who stole several pieces received the death penalty just a few years ago.