Ever dreamed of setting off on an epic adventure like Xuanzang did over 1,400 years ago? 🌏 Picture this: camels, desert dunes and a monk with a mission to bring back sacred Buddhist texts from India. But here’s the twist: he had an unexpected travel buddy and sponsor in ancient Gaochang.
Located near today’s Turpan in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region on the Chinese mainland, Gaochang was a bustling oasis on the Silk Road. A local leader there became Xuanzang’s sworn brother, footing the bill for supplies, guides and safe passage. Without his support during those four grueling months, Xuanzang’s pilgrimage might have stalled in the desert heat.
Thanks to this unsung hero’s achievements—building canals, securing trade routes and rallying local clans—our monk could kick off the next leg of his journey fully equipped. Imagine scanning a QR code today to unlock a free travel pack on your phone—that’s the level of game-changing support he provided back then! 🚀
Xuanzang went on to return with scrolls that shaped spiritual life from Sri Lanka to Nepal. And it’s all because one oasis city leader believed in his vision. Archaeologists are now digging up his legacy in Turpan’s sands, uncovering stories as thrilling as any blockbuster on your Netflix list. 🎬
So next time you plan a backpacking trip or binge-watch a drama about ancient kingdoms, tip your hat to Gaochang’s original MVP. Behind every legendary journey, there’s always that go-to wingman who makes the magic happen! ✨
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
