Info: When people talk about traveling in Tibet, It is a custom that people will divide Tibet to three big tourism parts: Lhasa Area, Shigatse & Southern Tibet, and Ali & Western Tibet.
Brief Introduction of Lhasa
Lhasa, capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region, is the center of Tibet's political, economic, cultural and religious activities.
Lhasa covers an area of close to 30,000 square km. It has a downtown of 544 square km and a population of 400,000; 140,000 of its people live in the downtown area. Lhasa is home to the Tibetan, Han, and Hui peoples, as well as many other ethnic groups, but the Tibetan ethnic group makes up 87 percent of the total population. The faithful composed the population of the town and Lhasa became a true "Mecca" of Tibet.
Lhasa is "The Land of Gods" in Tibetan, sits on the north bank of River Lhasa, a tributary of the Yarlung Tsangbo River, at an altitude of 3,700 meters. Located at the bottom of a small basin surrounded by mountains, Lhasa has an elevation of 3,650 meters and sits at 91'06E and 29'36N, the center of the Tibet Plateau. The Lhasa River, known as the "merry blue waves," runs through the snow-covered peaks and gullies of the Nyainqentanglha Mountains, extending 315 km. The river empties into the Yarlung Zangbo River at Quxu, forming a scenic wonder that features blue and white-water waves.
It has a history of over 13 centuries. Before the mid-seventh century when Lhasa, later a central town of Tibetan region, was yet to come into being, the area called Wotang was a marshy land of wildness, frequented by antelopes. On one bright summer day, Songtsan Gampo, leader of the Tubo tribe that had risen to power in the Yarlung River Valley, was struck by the perilous position of an area flanked by two steep mountains, while bathing in the Lhasa River, and decided that this was to be the home of his kingdom. This ambitious Tibetan king moved the center of his rule to Wotang and ordered the construction of his residence on the hilltop of Potala.
In 641 A.D., Songtsan Gampo who by this time had conquered the completely Tibetan region wedded Princess Wencheng of the Imperial Tang Court. When the princess arrived, she became convinced that Lake Wotang was a devil's heart to be overpowered by the construction of a grand temple after filling up the lake with earth. The princess further suggested that white goats carry the earth. This imposing grand temple became a symbol of the kingdom. The temple, later known as Jokhang, was initially named Lhasa, "the Sacred Land" in Tibetan.
Over the centuries, Lhasa became a political and religious center of Tibet.
Weather in Lhasa: Blessed with flat land and mild weather, Lhasa is free of frigid winters and unbearably hot summers, having an annual average daily temperature of 46.4F. It enjoys 3,000 hours of sunlight annually, much more than all other cities in this regard, giving the city its title of "sunlit city." It also enjoys an annual precipitation of 500 mm. It rains mainly in July, August and September. The rainy seasons in the summer and fall are the best seasons of the year, when it rains mostly at night, and is sunny in the daytime.
Brief Introduction of Potala Palace, Norbulingka and Jokhang Temple
Originally built by King Songtsen Gampo in the seventh century, Potala Palace is located on the Red Hill of Lhasa, Tibet. Destroyed by lightning and war, Potala Palace had been rebuilt by the Fifth Dalai Lama in 1645. Since then, Potala Palace has become the seat of Dalai Lamas and the political center of Tibet. The thirteenth Dalai Lama extended it to the present size, 117 meters (384 ft) in height and 360 meters (1,180 ft) in width, covering an area of more than 130, 000 sq meters (about 32 acres). Mainly comprised by the White Palace (administrative building) and the Red Palace (religious building), Potala Palace is famous for its grand buildings, complicated constructions, devotional atmosphere and splendid artworks.
Upon entering the East Portal, visitors will come into the Deyang Shar courtyard where Dalai Lamas watched Tibetan opera. West of the courtyard is the White Palace. As the winter palace of Dalai Lamas, the White Palace is a seven-floor building originally built in 1645. The wall of the palace was painted to white to convey peace and quiet. The Great East Hall on the fourth floor is the largest hall in White Palace, occupying a space of 717 sq meters (about 7,718 sq ft). This hall was also the site for holding momentous religious and political events. The living quarters and offices of regents are on the fifth and sixth floors and while the top floor consists of the East Chamber of Sunshine and the West Chamber of Sunshine. Because of the sunshine in the chambers all year round, the East and West Chamber were the places where Dalai Lamas live, work and study. The furnishings are sumptuousness and comfortable, revealing the dignity of Dalai Lamas. Standing on the spacious balcony, visitors can look down on beautiful Lhasa.
In the middle of the Potala Palace, the Red Palace exists. Built in 1690 after the death of the Fifth Dailai Lama, the wall of the palace was painted to red, representing stateliness and power. The Red Palace is renowned for its religious status, gorgeous stupas and precious culture relics. The Great West Hall in the middle is the largest hall of Potala Palace with an area of 725 sq meters (about 7,804 sq ft). Beautiful murals painted on inner walls described the glory and power of the Fifth Dalai Lama, and the corridor upstairs is also painted by many religious murals such as the figures of Buddhas, Bodhisattvas and Dalai Lamas; the genetic stories of Buddhism; the historical events such as marrying Princess Wencheng and building Jokhang Temple. One of the most famous murals described the Fifth Dalai Lama's visit to Emperor Shunzhi in Beijing 1652. There are another three chapels around the Great West Hall. The North Chapel is dedicated to Sakyamuni, Dalai Lamas, and Buddhas of Three Generations and Medicine Buddha. The stupa-tombs of the Eighth, Ninth and Eleventh Dalai Lama are also situated here. Besides, Visitors can also find a volume of Kanjur (Beijing Edition) donated by Emperor Yongzheng on the bookshelf. The East Chapel is consecrate to Tsong Khapa, founder of the Yellow Hat Sect. Other 70 statues of famous lamas surround his two-meter-high (6.56 ft) figure. The South Chapel is dedicated to Padmasambhava, a famous Indian monk who introduced Esoteric Buddhism to Tibet in eighth century. To the west of the Great West Hall is the Stupa Chapel where the stupa-tombs of the Fifth, the Tenth and the Twelfth Dalai Lamas are situated in. With a height of 14.85 meters (about 48.72 ft), covered by more than 3,000 kilograms (about 6,613 pounds) gold foil and decorated with thousands of pearls, gems, corals, ambers and agates, the Fifth Dalai Lama's stupa-tomb is regarded to be the highest and the most luxury one. The Three-world Hall, which is located on the highest point of Potala Palace, is the holy shrine of Chinese Emperors. It was built in 1690 and Dalai Lamas used to come here to show their respect to the central government every year.
Dharma Cave and the Saint's Chapel in the middle of the Red Palace are the only two constructions preserved since the seventh century. Dharma Cave was the place where King Songtsen Gampo studied Buddhism. The statues of King Songtsen Gampo, Princess Wencheng, and Princess Bhrikuti were built in the seventh century. The Saint's Chapel on the third floor worships Chenrezi, the bodhisattva of compassion. Statues of Tsong Khapa, Padmasambhava, the Fifth, Seventh, Eighth and Ninth Dalai Lamas surround the statue of Chenrezi.
The thirteenth Dalai Lama died in 1933, and people believed that he was as great as the Fifth Dalai Lama. Therefore, his stupa chapel to the west of the Great West Hall is only 0.86 meters (2.82 ft) lower than the Fifth Dalai Lama's. It was built in 1934, so it is the latest building in Potala Palace. Murals inside also illustrated the life of the Thirteenth Dalai Lama. The precious complete volumes of Kanjur have also been preserved in the chapel.
There are also many other constructions in Potala Palace, which include the School of Buddist Logic, the seminary, the printing House, gardens, courtyards and even the jail. For more than 300 years, Potala Palace has treasured many culture relics such as murals, stupas, statues, Thangkas, and rare sutras. Potala Palace is indeed a must-see for both visitors and researchers.
Norbulingka (the Summer Palace): It was meaning "Treasure Park" and was first built in the 1740s. Because of continuous expansion by the Dalai Lamas, it covers an area of 40 hectares. The Qing magistrate dispatched to Tibet built the original palace for His Holiness, the Seventh Dalai Lama who often visited the area. In 1751, the Seventh Dalai Lama began construction on the Kelsang Potrang as his palace where he ruled and received officials and high lamas. The Fourteenth Dalai Lama lived in the Kelsang Potrang during the construction of his new palace. Construction seldom stopped under the reigns of different Dalai Lamas. In 1956, the Fourteenth Dalai Lama finished his own palace - Takten Migyur Potrang, usually called the New Summer Palace. In the past, each spring a grand procession of lamas would follow the Dalai Lama to move into the park. Before 1959, common people had no access to the palace.
Khamsum Zilnon is a very eye-catching building behind the main gate. It was originally a Han style pavilion and later changed into a theater where the Dalai Lamas watched Tibetan opera. Tsokyil Potrang is a group of buildings on water. Dalai Lamas used to read in a hall of the palace. In 1922, the Thirteenth Dalai Lama began to build his Golden Lingka and Chensel Potrang, which is located at the back of the woods. Various flowers, grasses and trees were planted around. The palace was heavily painted with murals, which bear strong Han characteristics. Takten Migyur Potrang, meaning Eternal Palace in Tibetan, was completed in 1956 for the Fourteenth Dalai Lama. Though it is called New Summer Palace, it is a very traditional architecture except for its interior modern facilities. In the palace there are many splendid murals painted by a Fourteenth Dalai Lama's painter. The topics of the murals include Tibetan officials, Sakyamuni preaching under a Bodhi tree, and Tibetan history from its founding by the Holy Monkey, the vicissitudes of Tubo Kingdom (633-844) and Tibetan Buddhism to Panchen Lama and Dalai Lama's interviews with Chairman Mao Zedong in Beijing. The present Dalai Lama's private apartment is also on view, remaining untouched. In a little sutra hall, there is a Dalai Lama's throne which is wrapped in gold foils and decorated with gems.
Jokhang Temple: It is located in the center of the ancient city of Lhasa. Songtsan Gambo, the Tang Princess Wen Cheng and Nepalese Princess Bhrikuti built the Jokhang Monastery in the seventh century. Its four story main building demonstrates a combination of the Han, Tibetan, Indian and Nepalese architectural styles, as well as a man - made world outlook of Buddhism. With the Hall of Amitayus Sutra as its center, the monastery symbolizes the nuclear to the universe. The Hall of Sakyamuni is the essence of the monastery.
Jokhang is the spiritual center of Tibet, the Holy of Holies, the destination of millions of Tibetan pilgrims. Unlike the lofty Potala, the Jokhang has intimate, human proportions, bustling with worshippers and redolent with mystery. The outer courtyard and porch of the temple are usually filled with pilgrims making full-length prostration towards the holy sanctum. Its innermost shrine contains the oldest, most precious object in Tibet - the original gold stature of Sakyamuni - the historical Buddha, which Princess Wen Cheng brought from Chang'an 1,300 years ago.
It was said that Nepal Princess Tritsun decided to build a temple to house the Jowo Sakyamuni aged 12 brought by Chinese Princess Wencheng. Princess Wencheng reckoned according to Chinese astrology that the temple should be built on the pool where the Jokhang now locates. She contended that the pool was a witch's heart, so the temple should be built on the pool to get rid of evils. The pool still exists under the temple. Then goats were used as the main pack animals, as is the reason the city is called Lhasa. The construction took 12 months. However, it was originally small and had been expanded to today's scale in later dynasties. When the Fifth Dalai Lama took reign, large-scale reconstruction and renovation had been done. The temple is a combination of Han, Tibetan and Nepalese architectural techniques. Visitors will see sphinx and other sacred sculptures.
Every year, the Great Prayer Festival will be held in the Temple. The rites of Dalai Lamas and Panchen Lamas' initiation into Lamahood are also held in the monastery.
Brief Introduction of Barkhor Street
Traditional lifestyles are maintained in the center of the old city -- Lhasa. Rich and colorful ethnic handicrafts are available that you will not find anywhere else. No one can claim to have really visited Lhasa until you have taken a stroll around Barkhor Street. Famous in Lhasa, and throughout the entire Tibetan Autonomous Region, Barkhor Street is a trading site as well as religious center. As the oldest street in Lhasa, Barkhor is circular and remains quite traditional.
Barkhor is a marketplace where shaggy nomads, traders, robed monks and chanting pilgrims are together, mixing in shops and stalls. On sale are printed scriptures, cloth prayer flags and other religious items, jewelry, Tibetan knives, and ancient coins, and more. Barkhor is also the sacred pilgrimage site. It is a place where Tibetan culture, economy, religion and arts assemble.
Brief Introduction of Drepung Monastery
On the slope of the Wuze Hill in Genbei five kilometers northwest of Lhasa, the Drepung Monastery was built in 1416 and is the largest of the monastery of the Gelug Sect. Covering an area of 250,000 square meters (299,007 square yards), it is held 7,700 monks in total and possessed 141 fazendas and 540 pastures in its heyday, and is the largest-scale monastery among the ones of the same kind. Seen from afar, its grand, white construction gives the monastery the appearance of a heap of rice. As such, it was given the name 'Drepung Monastery' that, in the Tibetan language, means Monastery of Collecting-Rice.
The monastery has trained a large group of talents for Tibetan Buddhism. The Fifth Dalai Lama lived here before he moved to Potala Palace. It houses plenty of historical and cultural relics and Buddhist classics. In the exciting Shoton Festival, "Sunning the Buddha" by the monastery has been one of the most magnificent religious activities in Tibet.
The Drepung Monastery is known as the most important monastery of Gelugpa in Tibetan Buddhism. It is considered one of the 'Three Great Monasteries' (the other two are the Ganden Monastery and the Sera Monastery)
Every year in early August, Tibetans celebrate their major festival - Shoton, the Yogurt Festival. The most important event of this festival - Giant Buddha Show is held in Drepung Monastery.
History The monetary was established in 1416 by Tsong Khapa's disciple Jamyang Qoigyi, who was versed in both Esoteric and Exoteric Buddhism and became the first Kampo there. With the support of plutocrats, it developed as the richest monastery of Gelugpa and became the mother temple of Dalai Lamas. In 1546, the third Dalai was welcomed as the first Living Buddha into the monastery. At the invitation of Mongolia's king, he went to Qinghai Province to preach. He was dignified with the title 'the third Dalai Lama' the first and second Dalai were entitled, too. It is the very place that the second, third, and the fourth Dalai Lama held the Sitting-in-Bed Ceremony, as well as the residence of the fifth Dalai before his nomination by the government of the Qing Dynasty (1644 - 1911).
Systems The organizational hierarchy of the monastery is rather complex. The main branches of the organization consist of Coqen, Zhacang, Kamcun, and Myicun. Coqen is in the highest position, to which Zhacang belongs, and Kamcun is under the jurisdiction of Zhacang, with the Myicun as its subordinate. Monks belonging to respective Zhacangs cannot interblend with each other.
The education system in Zhacangs is set up such that, every year there are eight chances to study the sutra collectively, each time spanning from half a month to a month. Monks are tested before the Kampo in the method of reciting sutras and debating, based on their performance; receive the degrees of different levels.
Visit to the Monastery The ground of the monastery is organized on the caves and temples for Jamyang Qoigyi, together with two magnificent white pagodas. The buildings of the monastery are centered on these pagodas, The major buildings are Ganden Potrang, Coqen Hall, the four Zhacangs (or Tantric colleges), and Kamcuns.
The Ganden Potrang, in the southwest corner of the monastery, was built under the supervision of the second Dalai Lama Gendun Gyaco around the year of 1530. It became the residence of the second, third, fourth, and the fifth Dalai Lamas. After the fifth Dalai Lama moved to the Potala Palace, it was served as the meeting place for the local regime for both politics and religion.
The Coqen Hall is located in the center of the monastery. In front of it, is a square occupying an area of about 1,850 square meters (2213 square yards). Stepping on the wide stone stairs, you will see the grand Entrance Hall. Inside is the Sutra Hall supported by 183 pillars, and spanning 1,850 square meters. Amongst the colorful decorations, there are fine and vivid statues of Buddha. The second story houses collections of precious sutras. There are a set of Gangyur Tripitaka written in gold powder, and woodcarving sutras of the Qing Dynasty. On the third story is enshrined a huge bronze statues of Qamba Buddha, which is said to be the future appearance of the Qamba Buddha in his 8th year. The disciples of Buddhism worship it.
The monastery is composed of 4 Zhacangs, functioning as the sutra-learning places and the subordinate organization. Loseling Zhacang is the largest with the most lamas. The Loseling, Gomang, and Deyang Zhacang focus on the Esoteric Buddhism, while the Ngaba Zhacang on the Exoteric Buddhism.
Several courtyards in the dense forests on the grounds of the monastery are used for monks to debate on the sutras. The courtyards sites are always chosen near Zhacang and various trees are grown. After enduring the debating period in both Zhacang and the entire monastery, the winner will obtain the qualification to attend the test for the senior degree of Geshi.
Cultural Relics The Drepung Monastery houses many cultural relics, which adorn the monastery and make it more superb. Statues of Manjushri Bodhisattva and Sitatapatra that found on the first storey of the Coqen Hall, rare sutras on the second storey and Jamyang Qoigyi's conch shell given by Tsong Khapa on the third one, all add to the wonderment of the monastery. Exquisite statues of Tsong Khapa, Kwan-yin Bodhisattva, Manjushri Bodhisattva, Amitayus, and Jamyang Qoigyi in other sutra halls, as well as flowery murals on walls also fully present the wisdom of the Tibetan people.
Brief Introduction of Sera Monastery
one of the three largest monasteries of Gelugpa sits at the foothills of Tatipu. It is as prestigious as Drepung and Ganden, that both have longer histories. Sera, in Tibetan, means "Wild Rose Garden" since opulent wild rose woods once grew around it. A legend says that Tsong Khapa and his two disciples traveled in the area, spreading their religion. One day, they heard a horse whinnying underground when they were taking a walk in the rose woods. They dug up a statue of Hynagriva (a horse-headed demon-god) and Tsong Khapa began construction of a monastery to enshrine Hynagriva. However, the truth is that in 1414, Jamchen Chojey (or Sakya Yeshe), one of Tsong Khapa's disciples, visited Emperor Chengzu as Tsong Khapa's emissary. The Emperor Chengzu granted him a title of Dharma King of Great Mercy, sutras, and a set of sandalwood Arhats. In order to preserve them, Tsong Khapa instructed Jamchen Chojey to build a monastery to house the treasures. The Sera monastery was completed in 1419.
Sera are designed around a Main Assembly Hall, or Tshomchen in Tibetan, which is the grandest hall of Sera, occupying a floor space of 1,000 square meters.
The four-storied hall has four chapels in which Arhats, Manjushri, Tsong Khapa, and Chenrezi are enshrined. Later, a huge Maitreya was enshrined in the hall during the reign of the Seventh Dalai Lama. The valuable Buddhist sutras that Jamchen Chojey brought back from Beijing are kept in a sutra pigeonhole adjacent to the hall.
Sera houses three colleges as well as Drepung and Ganden. Sera Me College was the first one built, in 1419. It was later destroyed by a lightening strike but was restored in 1761. Its Chanting hall is remarkable. Sera Me is prestigious for its fine, undamaged murals.
Sera Je College was first founded in 1435 and was expanded by a Mongol king in seventeenth century. The building has five stories, covering a space of a thousand square meters. Its main hall contains 11 stupas of Ganden tripas and Ratreng tripas. The original Hynagriva statue is enshrined in its Hynagriva Chapel.
Ngagpa College was established in 1559. The smallest of the three colleges, it houses its founder Jamchen Chojey's statue in its chanting hall. The set of sandalwood Arhats granted to the monastery is housed in this college. For the sake of perfect preservation, they are encased in the bellies of a set of clay Arhats that have been authenticated as the original ones.
Sera's collection of murals is maintained in perfect, original condition. Its statues of Maitreya, Bodhisattvas, and Arhats are very noteworthy. Scriptures written in gold powder, scroll paintings, a tapestry portrait of Jamchen Chojey, and thangkas can be seen throughout Sera.
Brief Introduction of Yangpachen
110 kilometers (68 miles) north of Lhasa, is famous for its hot springs. It is said that a long time ago, before the sky and the earth was separated the whole world was in total darkness. People living at the foot of Mt. Nyainqentanglha were suffering. One day, a golden phoenix flew into the area, determined to create brightness by sacrificing its' self. It threw one of its bright eyes onto the ground. A fairy caught the eye, and then a bright lamp arose in the air. Snow capped peaks of Mt. Nyainqentanglha appeared; grassland as huge carpet emerged; happiness came to the Tibetan people. However, a greedy man near Yangpachen coveted the lamp. He took a witch man's idea to sharpen his hatred into an arrow to shoot the lamp. The lamp was broken then, the pieces of the lamp dropped onto the ground, turning into hot springs and was burned the man to his death. People said that the hot springs were the fairy's tears.
The town lies on a high and cold plateau. However, people approaching will see some hot springs blowing out steam rising up to sky. While the surrounding area was barren and extremely cold, Yangpachen is green with grass and highland barley growing abundantly. Steam emitting from the springs covers the small town. Now it has a thermoelectricity plant, green houses and hot spring bathrooms, attracting more and more tourists.
Brief Introduction of Chakpori Hill
Rising up beside Potala Palace, the spire peak of Chakpori Hill (Yao Wang Shan) is 3725 meters (12, 221 feet) high. Ascending the winding path to the top, one has the opportunity to view a panorama of the ancient city and its surrounding landscapes.
Quite a few figures of Buddha, gods in different poses, and Buddhist scripture in Tibetan characters are engraved on the cliff. There is an extremely well preserved grotto with a history of more than a thousand years on the southeast mountainside. The grotto is 27 square meters (0.0067 acre) and in the shape of unequal rectangle. There are 69 stone statues engraved on the rock, vivid and lifelike, which represent the soul of Tibetan stone inscription art. At the north, foot of the mountain is a spring. The fountain, pure and sweet, was named "Holy Water". It is said that the fountain was the favorite of the Dalai Lama half a century ago.
During the middle of 17th century, in the early Qing Dynasty, a temple was erected on the top of the mountain. Within this temple was placed a sapphire figure of a certain Tibetan Medicine King. Legend has it that the King was the avatar of Sakyamuni, who was able to treat patients no matter what the disease or how difficult the cure. During the period of the fifth Dalai Lama (1642-1682), lamas from all over the country were brought to this temple to systematically study and coordinate the knowledge of traditional Tibetan medicine. Later, the temple became the Tibetan Medicine Bureau, but over time, it fell into ruin.
Chakpori Hill (Yao Wang Shan) is also the ideal location for taking photographs of Potala Palace. In the early morning of holidays or peak seasons, dense crowds of photographers and photography aficionados come here to shoot a rare view of Potala Palace irradiated by the first rays of the sun.
Brief Introduction of Tibet Museum
The Tibet Museum is located in the southeast corner of Norbu Lingka, Lhasa city. It covers an area of 23,508 square meters (5.8 acres) including the exhibition area of 10,451 square meters (2.6 acres). The museum is equipped with modern facilities to ensure quality service for visitors and safety and efficient administration of the museum itself. Here exhibits are introduced in Japanese, English, Tibetan, and Chinese, in order to accommodate visitors from all over the world.
The construction project of the Tibet Museum was listed as one of the sixty-two "Aid-Tibet Projects" in July 1994. The museum opened in October 1999 to coincide with the 50th anniversary of the Founding of the People's Republic of China and the 40th anniversary of Tibet's Democratic Reform. The former Chinese chairperson Jiang Zemin inscribed the named for the Museum.
The museum building is a pioneering institution in the history of Tibet. Designed by a Han Chinese architect from Sichuan province, the complex is a wonderful combination of Chinese and Tibetan architectural styles. Upon entering the Prelude Hall, visitors' attention will immediately be caught by the colorfully ornamented beams, pillars, lintels, banners and wall hangings. Going forward, visitors will see that the museum is actually sub-catalogued: the first catalogue includes two exhibition halls on the first floor, showing the splendid history of Tibet and its abundant natural resources; the other catalogue is on the second floor and is comprised of five small exhibition halls that display Tibetan religion, folk custom, treasures, and arts and crafts. The Tibet Museum houses a rich collection of prehistoric cultural relics including Buddha statues in different postures, imperial jade seals, gold albums, gifts granted by emperors, colorful Tangkas, and various printed Sanskrit and Tibetan scriptures. Visitors can also see variety of folk art such as unique Tibetan handicrafts, costumes, jewelry, and adornments made of gold, silver, and jade, as well as fine Chinese pottery.
Brief Introduction of Qoigung Ruins
In October 1983, Tibetan archaeologists unearthed artifacts at Qoigung Village in the Nyangri Gully, north of Lhasa. From 4,000 years ago and earlier, these artifacts revealed aspects of civilization in Lhasa. They were found in ash pits and tombs that contained stone coffins with bodies with folded limbs. More than 10,000 kinds of objects and a large number of animal bones were found. Objects included stone knives, stone axes, stone shovels, grinding stones, bone awls, bone needles; and bone arrowheads were found. One of the bone needles had an eye as if for thread, resembling the sewing needles we use today. Large quantities of hand-made pottery were also uncovered in the ruins. Gray, polished black or brown in color, they display sawtooth- and string-like patterns, as well as carved patterns formed with awls. These artifacts provide evidence that there were people living in areas around Lhasa more than 4,000 years ago, and that they lived on farming, livestock breeding, hunting and gathering. Fishing net pendulums and fish bones uncovered in the ruins reveal that Lhasa River then teemed with fish, and that the locals had a habit of eating fish.The Qoigung ruins cover an area of 5,000 square meters, only a part of which has been unearthed. More artifacts are expected to be found.
Brief Introduction of Pharla Lhufo Grotto Monastery
Perched at the eastern slope of the Yaowangshan Mountain in Lhasa, Pharla Lhufo was carved during Songtsan Gambo's reign in the 7th century, according to a Tibetan history book. Legend has it that Songtsan Gambo's concubine Moya Yuyungsa had a statue of a heavenly god carved in a grotto at the Pharla Lhufo Mountain. Artists involved with the work were paid in salt, the amount of salt paid equivalent to the amount of stone dust created by the carving. When the stone statue was created, she had a stone corridor created for her to take ritual walks in the grotto. Though the grotto monastery has been in existence for more than 1,000 years, it is still well preserved for Buddhist activities.
The grotto is in the shape of a rectangle and covers an area of 27 square meters. It has a central pillar at the entrance to support the top. Between the central pillar and the stonewall is the corridor for taking ritual walks. Carved statues of deities and legendary heroes, including Tubo King Songtsan Gambo, Tang Dynasty Princess Wencheng, Nepalese Princess Bhributi, and Tubo Ministers Tome Sangbozha and Gar Tongtsan, flank the corridor. Flickering butter lamps in the cave add mystery to the environment.
Brief Introduction of Pabangka Castle
Legend has it that when Tang Dynasty Princess Wencheng first came to Lhasa, she calculated that Lhasa had superior geographical conditions, with a white dragon in the east, a green tiger in the south, a rose finch in the west and a holy turtle in the north. After hearing her calculations, Tubo King Songtsan Gambo conducted a survey of the northern suburbs of Lhasa himself, and actually found a giant rock resembling a reclining turtle in the Nyangri Gully. As a result, a castle five-story high was erected on the giant rock and named Giant Rock Castle, or Pabangka in Tibetan. Legend has it that the castle rose nine stories high, had stone walls cemented together with smelted iron, and was bound tightly to the rock with iron chains.
The Six Syllable Prayer Words, written by Tubo Minister Tome Sangbozha, were carved on the giant rock. Legend has it that when the Tubo minister returned from his studies in South Asia, King Songtsan Gambo arranged for him to create the Tibetan script, and then studied the script from the minister, who was appointed "the standardization tutor."
The rock castle was damaged when Lang Darma suppressed Buddhism in Tubo in the mid-9th century. In the 11th century, however, Pangdowa and Zhadowa, two monks from the Gardain Sect of Tibetan Buddhism, built a two-story monastery called Pabangka on the ruins to facilitate their practicing of Buddhism. Because of its long history and significance in Buddhist study, the small monastery is now so famous that Dalai Lamas of various generations came to the monastery for celebrations after taking vows or winning Geshi, the highest degree in Buddhism. The monastery has been restored to its old grandeur.
Brief Introduction of Ramoche Monastery
According to legend, Ramoche Monastery, located in the northeastern section of Lhasa, was commissioned, constructed and consecrated at the same time as Jokhang Monastery. Built under the aegis of the Tang Dynasty Princess Wencheng, the gate of the monastery faces east to show the princess's nostalgia for her homeland. The temple was known as Gyuiada Ramo Chezolhakang, meaning a "monastery incarnated from a Han tiger." In Tibetan, Jokhang means a major Buddha while Rachome means a minor Buddha.
Enshrined in the major hall of Ramoche Monastery is a statue of Sakyamuni, which Princess Wencheng took with her to Tibet from Chang'an (today's Xi'an), while the major hall of the Jokhang Monastery houses the statue of Sakyamuni taken from Kathmandu to Tibet by the Nepalese Princess Bhributi. The two monasteries later exchanged their statues of Sakyamuni. According to the records of Jokhang Monastery, which was established by the fifth Dalai Lama, the statue of Sakyamuni from Chang'an was initially housed in Ramoche Monastery, but after the death of the Tubo king Songtsan Gambo, Jokhang and Ramoche monasteries exchanged the statues of Sakyamuni in accordance with instructions issued by Princess Wencheng. The statue of Sakyamuni from Kathmandu is thus the major Buddha statue worshipped at Ramoche Monastery.
Ramoche Monastery consists of three storeys, the lower floor consists of a portico, sutra and Buddha halls, which are surrounded by a corridor for ritual perambulations. The walls of the corridor are covered with painted statues of the Amitabha Buddha. The top storey is covered with Han-style golden tiles, which glisten in the sun and can be seen from all corners of Lhasa. The Lhasa Upper Tantric College for monks of the Gelug Sect has been established in Ramoche Monastery, and the college abbot serves as the abbot of the monastery.
Brief Introduction of Zhayaba Caves
Zhayaba was one of the four major places at which Buddhist masters practiced mediation. Located in the Lhari Nyingbo Mountains about 20 km northeast of Lhasa, the area features grotesque peaks, strangely shaped rocks, streams, grassland, caves and a monastery. Its long history, the holiness of the environment, and the unique scenery combine to confirm the sayings often heard in Lhasa that "Lhasa is the holy land of Tibet, and Yaba is the holy land of Lhasa;" and "To miss Yaba while in Lhasa is like making a jacket without a collar." From this, we can see the importance of Yaba in the eyes of the Tibetan Buddhists.
Driving eastwards from Lhasa 1 reaches the Najain Power Station. After crossing a steep mountain behind the station and following the Yaba Mountain Gully into the Lhari Nyingbo Mountains, one reaches the Zhayaba Cave area.
Zhayaba teems with small temples. The most important of these is the Zolhakang, where the Tubo king Songtsan Gambo's Tibetan concubine, Mamsa Trizun, worshipped the statue of Sakyamuni, the founder of Buddhism. Sang'aling monastery was built by Kezhugyai Geleg Besang, the first disciple of Zongkapa, founder of the first disciple of Zongkapa, founder of the Yellow Hat sect. The monastery is famous for a three-storey-high statue of the Qamba Buddha (Maitreya), the highest of its type in the Lhasa area.
Hayaba is famous throughout Tibet for the caves where Buddhist masters mediated. There are 108 such caves in the area, including the Moon Cave, where Master Padmasambhava conducted his mediation. The Master's Cave in which Adixa, who came from India and who lectured on Buddhism in Ngari, resided. The Lhalung Cave, according to legend, which served as the secret residence of Lhalung Bedo, a Tantric monk who killed the Tubo king Dama Wodongtsan who was responsible for the suppression of Buddhism in Lhasa in the mid-9th century.
Brief Introduction of Razheng Monastery
When Master Adixa died in 1054, his leading disciple, Zhongdunba, built Razheng Monastery beside the picturesque Lhasa River in accordance with his late master's wishes. Henceforth, Razheng Monastery became the ancestral monastery of the Gedain Sect of Tibetan Buddhism. The Qambai Dorje enshrined in the monastery symbolizes the master, and there is a graceful statue of the guardian of Buddhism, Qinggar Lhabaizhang. The mountain paths are rugged, and in the past, the monastery was only accessible on foot or on horseback. However, there is now a highway from Lhasa to Lhunzhub County, where one crosses the Kyalag Mountain and follows the Lhasa River upstream to the monastery. Shaded by trees, the monastery consists of sutra halls, Buddha halls, and dormitories for the monks. Southeast of the monastery is Yanggun Monastery which is built between the rocks. Master Zongkapa wrote his Great Exposition on the Stages of the Path to Enlightenment at Yanggun Monastery. Initially, disciples of Zhongdunba served as abbots of the monastery. In the 18th century, the seventh Dalai Lama installed his sutra tutor, Ngawang Qoidain, as the Hutogtu of Razheng Monastery, and he became the first Living Buddha azheng. An incarnation system was later introduced at the monastery to select the soul boy of the deceased Living Buddha Razheng. The fifth Living Buddha Razheng, Tubdain Gyainbai Yexei, served as the Prince Regent on the death of the 13th Daial Lama. He supported Chinese central government policy for national unity, but was eventually murdered. The monastery holds the Kuyoqoiba (Cuckoo Worshipping) Ceremony on the 15th day of the fourth month in the Tibetan calendar. On the 15th day of the 7th month every 12 years, the monastery also stages the Pobentanggor Festival during which ten thousand believers walk around the soul rock in procession and worship Buddha statues.
Brief Introduction of Curpu Monastery
Curpu Monastery, located in Ngagar Township, Doilungdeqen County west of Lhasa, has been the residence of the Living Buddha Garmaba for several generations. The Garma Gagyu is one of the four major sects of the Gagyu Sect of Tibetan Buddhism, and the monastery is representative of the Gagyu Sect. Built by the first Living Buddha Garmaba, Doisum Qenba, in 1189, this originally small monastery has evolved into a town of lamas and spreads across the mountain slope. The nearby Nelang Monastery belongs to the Living Buddha Bawo; the 5th Living Buddha Bawo, Zolha Chenwa, wrote the Famous work Feast of Scholars.
The Living Buddha Garmaba and Curpu Monastery in which they lived once had great influence on the political and religious situation in Tibet, and maintained good relations with the Chinese hinterland. The second Living Buddha Garmaba, Garmabashi, worked to promote Buddhism in the imperial court of Genghis Khan. The Mongol Khan Monge granted him a gold seal of authority and a gold-rimmed black hat. From this time onwards, the sect to which the Living Buddha Garmaba belongs has been referred to as the Black Hat Sect. The 3rdand 4th Living Buddha Garmaba both maintained good relations with the Chinese imperial court. The fifth Living Buddha Garmaba, Yinshiba, even visited Nanjing, the capital of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), where he conducted Buddhist sermons. The Ming Dynasty emperor Chengzu (1403-1423) granted him the honorific title of the Great Treasure Prince of the Dharma because of his long trip to promote the development of Buddhism. The Living Buddha Garmaba of various generations has subsequently called themselves the Great Treasure Prince of the Dharma. There are numberous legends related to the mountains, water and land in the area of Curpu Monastery and the relationship between Curpu Monastery and the Chinese central government. The 17th Living Buddha Garmaba was enthroned in September 1992.
Curpu Monastery sits at the foot of Baima Qoinzong Mountain, and there are mediation cells on the peaks flanking the monastery. The Duilungjiang stone tablet, erected during the period of the Tubo Kingdom, lies close to the monastery. In winter and spring each year, a sorcerer's dance is held at Curpu Monastery and constitutes one of the major religious activities of the monastery and the surrounding area.
Brief Introduction of Monasteries of the Zhigung Gagyu Sect
A row of monasteries stands by the Xoirung River in Maizhokunggar County, east of Lhasa. It is said that there were once 30 monasteries arranged in accordance with the 30 symbols of the Tibetan written language. Seven monasteries remain, including Zhigungti Monastery that is the central monastery of the Zhigung Gagyu Sect. Built by Zhigungpa Renqenbai in 1179, it was composed of majestic hall spreading along the mountain slope. Unfortunately, it was almost completely destroyed during the war between the Zhigung Gagyu Sect and the Sagya Sect. The monastery that exists today is a later reconstruction. It is currently home to some 300 monks. On top of the mountain behind Zhigungti Monastery is the Zhigung Celestial Burial Ground, the most famous of its kind in Tibet. Hidden away in a mountain gully is the Dezong Buddhist nunnery. The Dezong Hot Spring in the vicinity has an ample supply of hot spring water, which is said to cure a wide range of diseases. It attracts numerous visitors who take a dip in the hot spring. Along the lower reaches of the Xoirong River are the Yaragang, Zongze, Zhaxoi and Garze monasteries.
Brief Introduction of Gamdian Monastery
Zongkapa, founder of the Gelug Sect of Tibetan Buddhism, first built the Gandain Monastery in Dagze County in 1409. The halls of the monastery spread across the top of Wangbur Mountain give the impression of a mountain town when viewed from a distance. The three-storey Coqen Hll is the major section of the monastery and is large enough to hold a gathering of 3,000 lamas, who use the hall for the recitation of sutras. West of Coqen Hall is Yangbagyain Hall, which houses a suit of armor worn for many years by Qing Dynasty Emperor Qianlong who later presented it to the monastery. The armor is inlaid with gold, silver and gemstones, and bears inscriptions in the Han, Manchurian, Mongolian and Tibetan languages. Coqen Hall incorporates the Buddhist Guardian Hall, the Master's Hall, the Mandala Hall, and the Sidongkang Hall for the Holy Stupa of Zongkapa, and the Hall for the Holy Stupas of the Gandain Chiba Abbots. The holy stupas for Zongkapa contain the master'sremains. The body of the stupa was cast from silver and then was wrapped in sheets of gold. Zongkapa lived for many years and died in Chidorkang Hall.
The name Gandain Chiba refers to the head abbot of Gandain Monastery. Since Gandain Monastery is the ancestral monastery of the Gelug Sect, the Gandain Chiba is also the head abbot of the Gelug Sect. He is next only to the Dalai Lama and the Pachen Erdeni in terms of his status in Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery also incorporates Xaze and Jamze Zhacangs, i.e., colleges for studying the stras. At the foot of Gandain Monastery is Lhamo Monastery. In the past, the Lhamo sorcerer, one of the four Buddhist guardians of the local Tibetan government, practiced divination at Lhamo Monastery. The monastery maintains close ties with Gandain Monastery.
Brief Introduction of The Temple of Guanyu
Guan Yu refers to a Han general of the Three Kingdoms periods (220-280), but in Lhasa, there is also a temple to Guan Yu, demonstrating the diversity of religion in Lhasa.
In 1793, Qing Dynasty Emperor Qianlong sent General Fukang'an to fight the Korgas when the later invaded Tibet. After achieving victory, General Fukang'an was on his way home at the head of his army when he stopped in Lhasa. The general believed that he had won the battle in a dangerous environment and hostile climate mainly because of spiritual assistance from the Han General Guan Yu. The rank and file of his army raised 7,000 taels of silver, and General Fukang'an and the Prince Regent joined forces to use the money to build the Temple of Ghuan Yu on top of Pamari (also known as the Mopan) Mountain. Guan Yu closely resembled King Gesar, who is revered by the Tibetans, in appearance, and the Han general is also referred to as Gesar Lhakang. For more than 200 years, the Tibetans have carried out divinations in front of the statue of General Guan Yu. Some bring chickens to the temples that are then released, and the area surrounding the temple is full of chickens scratching for food.
Brief Introduction of Nyingchi
"Nyingchi" means "throne of the sun" or "throne of the family" in Tibetan. Nyingchi County is in the southeast of Tibet, to the north of Yarlung Zangbo River, and at the lower reaches of Nying River. Nyingchi County covers an area of 10,238 square kilometers, and has a population of 260, 00.
Nyingchi County is located in the middle reaches of the Yarlung Zangbo River. Both steep cliffs and flat valleys exist in the area. The average altitude is 3000 meters above sea level.
The vegetation resources are abundant in the area. The main species of trees are cypress, mulberry and Spruce, etc. The stock volume of trees is about 60 million cubic meters.
The traffic network of the county has come to its shape. The 223 kilometers' long highway of Sichuan-Tibet Highway crosses the county. The total road lengths in the county reach 410 kilometers.
Unique custom in Nyingchi: It is said that the people in Gongbo used to observe the Tibetan New Year, as the people in other Tibetan areas do.
According to the distinctive customs of the Gongbo New Year, on the eve of the New Year, every household will put festival foods—co, a sacrificial offering made of zanba, deep-fried dumplings, beef, mutton, butter, milk dregs, brown sugar, dried peaches, apples, etc. on wooden plates, set them in the courtyard and feed their dogs. The Gongbo people believe that what the dogs eat will forecast the harvest in the New Year: eating co or pancakes means a good harvest, eating milk dregs and butter means a thriving animal husbandry, and eating dried peaches means that all family members will be happy and healthy. Then the family will sit together and eat Gyida, a string of toasted dumplings made of flour, butter and milk dregs. Everyone will eat more than his or her fill, so that the ghost cannot carry him or her away.
On New Year's Day, people will take sacrificial offerings and wine, made of Qingke, to the fields and present them to the Goddess of Harvest. A tall post will be erected in the field, with a flag hanging from its upper end and hay tied to its lower part. An altar will be set up in front of the post. The people will burn aromatic plants for auspicious smoke, sing and dance to pray for blessings from the Goddess of Harvest and a good harvest in the New Year.
There are many typical entertainment activities during the New Year. On the second day of the New Year, the men compete in shooting arrows while on horses. The wooden, cone-shaped arrowhead bears many holes so that the arrow makes a sharp sound when piercing the air, so the arrow is called a "whistling arrow." There are also wrestling, stone-carrying and tree-felling competitions. The women also have many games to play besides cheering the riders and archers. In the evening, a bonfire is lit on the square, and a big, wooden barrel is set beside it. Everyone who has come to dance will pour a pot of wine into it, and then dance and drink around the bonfire until dawn.
Another famous festival is the Bear-Fighting Festival in the Shiba Village of the Bomi area in Nyingchi.
By comparison, the Eagle-worshipping Festival in the Benri Mountain holds more religious flavor.
Travel Tips in Nyingchi:
1. Due to the severe sunlight on the plateau and wide temperature division between day and night, you are highly advised to carry long sleeves, sweater, jackets, sunglasses, sun cap, sun blocking cream, lip cream, Aspirin, medicine for cold and digestion, etc. The best tourist season is from April until October.
2. At present bus or car is the only means of transportation to enter Nyingchi and some parts of Nyingchi are even only accessible on foot though most of the town and villages are well linked by highway networks.
3. The tourists can buy all the Tibetan daily life utensils in the shops opened by the Kangba People on the 500 meters long. Hong Kong Street in Bayi is a very important logistic center in the southeast of Tibet.
4. As most other parts of Tibet, the Sichuan Cuisines is the most popular. The Sichuan restaurants are even ubiquitous. Small ones are cheaper while some more expensive and better one does offer fantastic Sichuan food.
5. Bayi boasts the most advanced banking facilities and services in the region though; it has only two banks, i.e. the Construction Bank and the Agriculture Bank and both have no ATMs. The postal saving here offers deposit-and-withdraw in different locations service, but you are still advised to carry cash. The foreign visitors should especially take note that they cannot exchange foreign currencies here.
6. Most parts of the prefecture have Internet cafes, even in the remote county of Bome.
Brief Introduction of Bayi Town
Bayi town is the political, economic and cultural center of Nyingchi County. It covers an area of 8 square kilometers, with a population of 16,000. It has over 90 enterprises, units and plants. It located 406 kilometers east of Lhasa, is the seat of the administrative office of Nyingchi. Around the town are many sites of interest. Among the most famous are the "Waterfall in summer and Ice in winter," "Rijimuco Lake," and "Bayi Forest of Great Cypresses." The most impressive is the forest of Tibetan cypresses of about 10 hectares at the Bagyai Village in Nyingchi County at 3,040 meters above sea level. The average height of these cypresses is 30 meters, about one meter wide, with a canopy density of 50 percent. The largest, called "the greatest cypress in China," is over 50 meters tall, 5.8 meters wide and about 2,500 years old. In the Bamna Village stands an old mulberry tree of over 1,600 years old. Being 7.04 meters high and over 13 meters wide, it is called the "King of Mulberries."
In-between Bayi Town and Nyingchi County, there is a wood of giant cypress trees. The local Tibetans regard them as "holy trees". The oldest trees are more than 2500 year old and they are rare trees on the Plateau. They are quite significant in scientific research, expedition, teaching and tourism.
Brief Introduction of Namjabarwa Peak
The Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and the Himalayas have been hailed as humankind’s last land of mystery, and even regarded as the “golden key” that can open the gate of the earth. The most mysterious thing is that at each end of the Himalayas two peaks stand on the mysterious tectonic knots: at the eastern end stands Namjagbarwa and at the western end Nanga Parbat (8,125 meters), the world’s ninth highest peak. They not only attach the magnificent length of the Himalayan chain to the southern edge of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, but also fix the Eurasian plate to the Indian plate.
The Yarlung Zangbo River has a big turn at the juncture of four counties of Nyingchi, Mainlling, Medog and Bome. To the east of the turn stands the 7,782-meter-high Namagbarwa Peak, the 15th highest peak in the world. In face of the Indian Ocean, it reflects an obvious vertical landform. In its valley is tropical rain forest and above the snow line, it is a snow world. Namjagbarwa has existed for over 700 million years. The first piece of land in the Himalayan region to emerge from the sea, it deserves its title of Number One among the Eastern Himalayan Mountains.
The main peak of the Namjagbarwa pierces the clouds. The legend goes that deities descended from Heaven and burned mulberry leaves on the summit; so the streaming clouds on the high-altitude winds are the smoke from those mulberry fires. It is a sea of clouds all year round.
From the foot of Namjagbarwa, upwards to the 7,782 meters summit, is the following sequence of ecological systems: tropical low mountain evergreen or semi-evergreen monsoon rain forests; sub-tropical mountain evergreen and semi-evergreen broadleaf forests; warm temperate mid-mountain evergreen conifer forests; sub-frigid alpine bushes and grassy marshland; and sub-frigid alpine ice source and frigid ultra-alpine ice and snow. This great abundance of mountain eco-systems, mountain vegetation forms and bio-communities is compressed in one tight area; it can be rated the best in the world, and as a world, and as a world natural museum of mountain vegetation forms.
In Tibetan, Namjagbarwa means a "long lance piercing into the sky." The sky-scraping Namjagbarwa Peak, with its majestic appearance, precipitous shape and unpredictable climate, has been an ambitious aim of mountain-climbing organizations from various countries, and was only conquered recently by a Sino-Japanese climbing team in 1992.
The blur river water reflects the snow capped peaks, and the crystal-clear glacier winds through the green primal forests. The brightly colored Tibetan villages, the graceful and healthy girls, herds of cattle and sheep on the pastures, and wild flowers of every color in full bloom form a picturesque landscape unfolding before the eyes of every traveler who, too long fettered by the bustle of city life, yearns for the beauty of natural paradise.
Brief Introduction of The Yarlung Zangbo River and The Tsangpo Badong Waterfalls
The section of the Yarlung Zangbo River from the Pailung Village to the Pai Village of Mainling County is about 120 kilometers. Along the river, the vast, plain valley, sky-scraping mountains and luxuriant primitive forest, the Dominating Namjagbarwa Mountain and the river islet covered with verdant trees form a lushly colored landscape painting. The orchards by the river emit an appealing fragrance of flowers and fruits. The wild landscapes flanking the river, the famous Great Turn of the Yarlung Zangbo River and the precipitant waterfall formed by thawed snow present charms of Nature.
The Yarlung Tsangpo River is one of the most important rivers in China, with water reserves that rank second in China. It originates from the middle section of the northern slope of the Himalaya Mountain with an elevation of more than 6,000 meters and make an unparalleled unique U-turn around the mountain of Namjfgbarwa, before finally reaching Baxike in Medong County, and creating the famous Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon. The actual length of the canyon is 504.6 kilometers and its deepest point (6,009 meters) is at Zongrong Village. Then the river runs through a narrow passage between the two 7,000 meter high peaks of Namjagbarwa and Jialabailei. Its flow averages 1,000 cubic meters per second year round. In one section less than 1,000 meters, the drop is more than 300 meters and their current velocities are more than 18 meters per second.
The Yarlung Zangbo Canyon is the first one in the world. One side of the canyon is as deep as 7,057 meters. The overall average depth of the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon is 2,268 meters and in the core section, the average depth is 2,673 meters. At the entrance to the canyon, the river is 660 meters across, gradually reducing to 35 meters at its narrowest point. The sharpest gradient of the river surface is 7.535 per cent. All the figures go to show beyond any doubt that the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon is the world champion. As the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon cuts right through the Himalayas, it becomes the largest moisture passage for the Indian Ocean monsoon to enter the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.
Standing by it, you will feel the fascination of the nature, including the precipitous cliffs, hot springs, waterfalls, primeval forests, rare plants and animals. The section of the Yarlung Zangbo River from the Pailung Village to the Pai Village of Meiling County is about 120 kilometers. Along the river, the vast, plain valley, sky-scraping mountains and luxuriant primitive forest, the Dominating Namjagbarwa Mountain and the river islet covered with verdant trees form a lushly colored landscape painting. The orchards by the river emit an appealing fragrance of flowers and fruits. The wild landscapes flanking the river, the famous Great Turn of the Yarlung Zangbo River and the precipitant waterfall formed by thawed snow present charms of Nature.
The beauty of the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon is beyond compare. Its unique natural environment and species diversity make up the colorful and unmatched scenery of the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon: primal, natural, simple, and magical…
The Tsangpo Badong Waterfalls are the most spectacular, primitive and mysterious waterfalls in China.
It has a total length of 2, 840 kilometers and is the 23rd longest river in the world. In terms of flow, it ranks seventh----16, 290 cubic meters per second, as much as 76, 600 cubic meters per second at its largest flood flow, ranking fourth in the world. It starts in the Gyima Yamzoin Glacier on the north slope of the Himalayas, meanders along the foot of the Mimalayas from west to east before meeting the foot of Namjagbarwa (7,782 meters), the main peak of the eastern Himalayas. Its way is blocked by Gyalabele (7,294 meters) snow mountain—then it pushes its way through the gap between the two mountains. In so doing, it forms the precipitous Dorje Pagmo Valley east of Gyalabele. This mysterious valley, situated in the west of the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon, is home to four great waterfalls: Tsangpo Badong, Tsatan Muni, and Chokor Tolang and Rongdrak waterfalls. The most spectacular is the Tsangpo Badong Waterfall at the entrance of the Dorje Pagmo Valley. The Tsangpo Badong Waterfalls is a cluster of three waterfalls. The Tsangpo Badong Waterfalls is 117.7 meters wide with a head fall of 33 meters, which might reach 40 meters in the flood season. The second is Bailang Warerfall that measures 62 meters across. Its head fall of 35 meters is the biggest of any waterfall found so far on the mainstream of the Yarlung Tsangpo. Number 3 waterfall is relatively small.
The Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon is precipitous, misty and mysterious. The average flow of the river section of Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon is ten times that of the Colorado River’s 67 cubic meters per second. It has turbulent currents and many waterfalls.
Medog County "Medog", means "flower" in Tibetan, is located in the southeast of the Tibet Autonomous Region and at the lower branch of Yarlung Zangbo River. Medog County has a population of 9,200, and covers an area of 30,553 square kilometres. The average altitude of the county is 1200 metres above sea level.
The Medog National Animal and Plant Reserve Area are in the county. It has more than 3,000 species of plants, 42 species of rare wild animals that under special State protection, and over a thousand of hexapod species. Farming is the main industry in Medog County. It is abundant with paddy, soybean, cotton and gingeli, etc. Hairy deerhorn, gastrodia tuber, muskiness, and hedgehog hydnum, etc. are special products of the area. Most people live in the county are of Moinba ethnic minority and Lhoba ethnic group.
Brief Introduction of The Bome Gangxiang Spruce Forest
The Bome Gangxiang Spruce Forest, located at the lower reaches of the Yarlung Tsangpo River, has the largest, best, and last primeval forest in China. The warm, damp airflow from the Indian Ocean produces favorable water and temperature conditions so the spruces here are like towers… tall, straight, dense and sturdy. Some are as two meters in diameters and 80 meters in height. The density of trees per hectare ranks first in the world. Its primeval nature, density and magnificence are unsurpassable. Under the tree canopy, it is pleasantly cool and moist in the forest. Shrubs and herbaceous plants are evenly distributed. Moss thrives, creating a green blanket almost covering the whole forest floor. Rampant vines, 30 or 40 centimeters in diameter, can wind their way up to the crown canopy. Old man’s beard, lightly swaying, completes the typical picture of a damp dark coniferous forest. Temperate zone plateau dark coniferous forest is as spectacular as a world rarity. GangXiang Village Conifer Reserve in Bome is well known for its scenery and is called "Swiss in Tibet" by the foreigners.
"Bome" means "ancestor" in Tibetan. Bome County is located in the east of the Tibet Autonomous Region and to the east of the Yarlung Zangbo River. Bome County has a population of 260,000 and covers an area of 14,972 square kilometres. The county is surrounded by the mountanious region. The average altitude is 4,200 metres above sea level.
The mine resources are mainly iron, tungsten, molybdenum, copper, lead, zincum, crystal, gold dust, clay and plaster, etc. The virgin forests are rich in the county. The stock volume of trees is 0.12 billion cubic metres.
Bome County is one of the food supply bases of the Tibet Autonomous Region. The main products of handicraft industry of the county are butter barrel, wood bowl and Tibetan Knife. Over 200 kilometers of the Sichuan-Tibet Highway crosses the county.
Brief Introduction of The Seche La Mountain
Located to the east of Nyingchi County, is a part of the Nyainqentanglha Mountain Range, the watershed of the Nyang River and the Polung Zangbo River. Standing at the mountain pass at 4,728 meters above sea level, one can admire the sunrise, sea of cloud, endless forest and the grand Namjagbarwa Peak. The Benri La Mountain near the Dagze Village on the western slope of the mountain is a sacred site of the Tibetan Bon Sect and one of the four great holy mountains in Tibet. All year, devotees make pilgrimages to this spot from all areas. Every tenth day of the eighth month of the Tibetan calendar, a grand mountain worshipping activity is held, which is called "Nangbolhasoi," meaning, "Seeking for treasures from immortals."
Brief Introduction of The Burqug Lamaling Monastery
Located on the third terrace on the left bank of the lower reaches of the Nyang River, is surrounded by mountains on three sides and faces the delta at the mouth of the Nyang River. The monastery was built with wood, curving eaves and brilliantly painted beams, combining the different artistic styles of the Han and Tibetan peoples. The monastery has a quiet ambiance, with luxuriant green trees and a limpid stream. From here, one can admire the forest-covered mountains and glistening Nyang Delta.
Brief Introduction of The Nangpo Gully
The Nangpo Gully Located about 50 kilometers northwest from Gongbo'gyamda County, is one of the northern tributaries of the Nyang River. Its upper stream is formed by the confluence of Yangwo, Gyixing and Boru gullies. At Boru Gully's source is the Karst Cave. At about 4,200 meters above sea level are three sites of hot springs, which are, from above to below, the Nun's Hot Springs, the Lama's Hot Springs and the Boru Hot Springs. They are natural baths with comfortable water temperatures. Near the hot springs are many old pine trees and cypresses, which combine with the cave and stream into a poetic and picturesque scene. The Yangwo Gully northwest of Nangpo Village is known for its jagged rocks. At the foot of the mountain is the Bagar Monastery, which was built during the period of the fifth Dalai Lama. It belongs to the Yellow Sect of the Tibetan Buddhism. In the natural cave above the monastery are murals of holy animals and Buddhist images. There are also caves within the cave and an overhead walkway. Below the monastery is the Karst Intermittent Spring, which spurts water 6 times a day all year. In autumn, when the leaves have fallen, the bushes by the gully below the monastery show jade-red bear branches, forming a "Red Cloud Gully" of 5 kilometers. The cobbles in the bed of the stream look like scattered pearls, so this place is also called "Pearl Shoal." The scenes here are unique and beautiful.
Brief Introduction of Niangpugou Scenic Zone
The Nangpo Gully, located about 50 kilometers northwest from Gongbo'gyamda County, is one of the northern tributaries of the Nyang River. Its upper stream is formed by the confluence of Yangwo, Gyixing and Boru gullies. At Boru Gully's source is the Karst Cave. At about 4,200 meters above sea level are three sites of hot springs, which are, from above to below, the Nun's Hot Springs, the Lama's Hot Springs and the Boru Hot Springs. They are natural baths with comfortable water temperatures. Near the hot springs are many old pine trees and cypresses, which combine with the cave and stream into a poetic and picturesque scene. The Yangwo Gully northwest of Nangpo Village is known for its jagged rocks. At the foot of the mountain is the Bagar Monastery, which was built during the period of the fifth Dalai Lama. It belongs to the Yellow Sect of the Tibetan Buddhism. In the natural cave above the monastery are murals of holy animals and Buddhist images. There are also caves within the cave and an overhead walkway. Below the monastery is the Karst Intermittent Spring, which spurts water 6 times a day all year. In autumn, when the leaves have fallen, the bushes by the gully below the monastery show jade-red bear branches, forming a "Red Cloud Gully" of 5 kilometers. The cobbles in the bed of the stream look like scattered pearls, so this place is also called "Pearl Shoal." The scenes here are unique and beautiful.
Brief Introduction of Basum Lake
Located about 90 kilometers west of Gongbo'gyamda County, the Basum Lake is an alpine lake at the middle and upper reaches of the Ba River, which is the largest tributary of the Nyang River. The lake surface is on average about 3,538 meters above sea level. The lake covers an area of 25.9 square kilometers. The deepest part is about 60 meters from the surface. The blue, limpid lake water and the verdant mountain around the lake combine into a charming scene that can be compared with those in Switzerland. In summer and autumn, when flowers bloom and the air is filled with their fragrance, bees and butterflies are seen shuttling and fluttering among them. Bears, leopards, goats, musk deer, Tibetan snow roosters and other wild animals are in the forest. An islet in the center of the lake is an enormous "sheep-back stone" left by glaciations eons ago. Following the direction of the glacier's movement, one can discern distinct traces. On the islet stands a monastery of the Yellow Sect, which was built in the 17th century. Going upstream from the Basum Lake to the source of the mainstream and the tributaries, one can see large mountain glaciers. With abundant snow, the long tongues of the lakes often stretch into the lush and green forest, the white snow shining through green trees. The bank of the lake is dotted with small villas of unique shapes, making a beautiful and comfortable holiday village. In 1997, the World Tourist Organization as one of the world’s best tourist spots listed the Basum Lake.
Brief Introduction of Qiangtang Grassland
The meaning of "northern highland” refers to the north Tibetan plateau. It located in among Kunlung Mountains, Tanggula Mountains and Ganddis Mountains. Its land area covers 2/3 of the whole Tibet. Its total area is over 600 thousand square kilometers averaging about 4000 meters above sea level. Cold, Windy and snowy for 8 or 9 months in a year and frozen land can be seen everywhere. An old folk song sings like this: "The mysterious Qiangtang, it is so wild and desolate when you are here the first time; it becomes your lovely hometown when you get to know more."
The north of Qiangtang Plateau is even called No People Area, thus the place becomes the ideal living area of rare animals, including the north of the Gangdisi Mountains and Nyainqen-tanggula Mountains and the wide area south of Kunlun Mountains. Qiangtang Grassland breeds thousands of wild animals, and 40 of them are specially protected by the state or regional government. Such rare animals as Wild yaks, Bharals, Tibetan wild donkeys, White-lipped deer, etc. are being well preserved in the area. In addition, it is the best preserved area in which rare animals researches are being carried out.
In Qiangtang Nature Reserve, there are vast prairies and glaciers, numerous mountains and lakes, hot springs, terrestrial’s heats. The golden season is the period from June to September, during which the temperature can reach 7-12 degree and the north of Tibetan plateau will take on a spectacular view before you with gentle wind, mild sunshine, lush grazing and large number of cattle and sheep.
It is also the main base for animal husbandry, having a large range of pastureland and grass of high quality. The famous "plateau boat" Yak and Tibetan antelope just live in this area. The Foot Mountains and the sides of lakes mostly locate the herdsmen’s homes “dong wozi”. When summer comes, they put their simple packing on horseback, wandering and herding around the boundless prairie, the melodious songs accompanying with their changing footsteps. The herdsmen shake away the long loneliness by hardworking and singing in the harsh nature, creating their beautiful and colorful life.
Brief Introduction of Tashihungpo Monastery
Built in 1447, the Tashilhungpo (meaning auspicious Sumeru) Monastery is located on the southern slope of the Nyima Mountain to the west of the Xigaze city. It is one of the four monasteries of the Gelug Sect of Tibetan Buddhism. According to historical documents, the monastery was built under the supervision of the first Dalai Lama Genden Zhuba, a disciple of Zongkapa, the founder of the Yellow Sect. When the fourth Panchen Lobsan Qoigyi became the abbot, it was expanded to a large scale. Since then, the monastery has become the residence of Panchen Lama. Listed as a key relic under state protection by the State Council on March 4, 1961, the monastery occupies 150,000 square meters. Facing south, the complex is built symmetrically against the Nyima Mountain. Its wall, over 3,000 meters long and built according to the topography of the mountain, surrounds 57 buildings, or more than 3,600 rooms.
The earliest building in the monastery is the Coqen Hall (Large Scripture Hall), whose construction lasted 12 years. Inside are 48 red pillars, which support the ceiling. In the center of the hall is the throne of the Panchen. To the left of the hall is the Great Buddha Hall, built in 1461 with financial support from Jorwo Zhabung, king of Guge Kingdom in Ngari. Inside stands the 11-meter-tall, benevolent-looking Maitreya. To the right of the hall is the Tara Hall, which houses a two-meter-tall bronze statue of White Tara and two clay statues of Green Tara. The interior is decorated with schist collected at the foot of the Himalayas and radiates a peaceful aura. In front of the hall is a 600-square-meter area where the Panchen gives Buddhist lectures and lamas discuss Buddhist scriptures. On the surrounding stonewalls are engravings of the images of the Buddhism founder, the four Heavenly Kings, the 18 arhats and 1,000 statues of Buddha with different facial expressions. In the middle of the northern wall are engraved images of sages such as Zongkapa, the founder of the Yellow Sect, 80 senior monks and variously styled flying apsaras and Bodhisattva.
Gyinalhakang, the Han Chinese Buddhist Temple, houses many gifts to the Panchen from the Chinese emperors of past dynasties, such as ancient porcelain wares, gold and silver goblets, tea sets, bowls and plates, jade containers and refined fabrics. The earliest objects, the nine bronze Buddha statues, are said to have been brought to Tibet by Princess Wencheng of the Tang Dynasty (AD 618-907). A red Tara bronze statue is believed to have been made in the Yuan Dynasty (1206-1368). A 16.5-jin gold seal, inscribed with the three languages of Chinese, Mongolian and Tibetan, is a gift from an emperor of the Qing Dynasty (1616-1911). There are also Buddhist beads made of precious stone, imperial mandates and Buddhist scriptures. Inside the hall hangs a huge picture of a Qing-dynasty emperor in kasaya holding a Dharma wheel. Before the picture is, a tablet inscribed with long live Emperor Daoguang (reigning 1821-1851). When the emperor issued a decree, the Panchen would kowtow to express his gratitude before the tablet after receiving it. The side hall of the Han Chinese Buddhist Temple is the meeting room where the Qing-dynasty grand minister resident of Tibet and the Panchen used to meet.
West of the Tashilhungpo Monastery is the Qamba Buddha Hall, which was built in 1914 under the supervision of the ninth Panchen Qoigyi Nyima. The hall is 30 meters high and covers 862 square meters. In the hall, the bronze statue of Qamba Buddha is the highest of its kind in the world. It took 110 workers four years to finish casting it. The statue used 6,700 taels of gold and 115,000-odd kilograms of copper. The statue sits on a 3.8-meter-high lotus seat. It is 26.2 meters high, his shoulder 11.5 meters wide, his foot 4.2 meters long, his hand 3.2 meters long, his middle finger 1.2 meters long and his ear 2.8 meters long. Between his eyes are inlaid 1,400 pieces of diamond of various sizes, pearls, amber, coral and other precious stones.
In 1985, the State Council allocated special funds to renovate the divine pagoda of the fifth to ninth Panchen Lamas, which had been destroyed during the 1966-1976 Cultural Revolution. Under the personal supervision of the 10th Panchen, the sacrificial hall built to the memory of past Panchen Lamas was named Tashinamgyi (Auspicious Heaven), which opened on January 22, 1989. The whole project lasted three years and eight months. Covering a floor space of 1,933 square meters, the hall is 33.17 meters high, inside which the divine pagoda is 11.52 meters high. The gilded pagoda is covered with a layer of silver and is inlaid with precious stones. Its decorative patterns look grand and solemn. The remains of the Panchen Lamas in five sandalwood boxes are placed inside. In its center is the bronze statue of the ninth Panchen Qoigyi Nyima, while the walls of the hall present murals depicting the contributions of famous lamas of different sects.
The 10th Panchen Erdeni Qoigyi Gyaincain passed away on an inspection tour to Xigaze on January 20, 1989. Three days later, the State Council issued a decision to build a sacrificial hall to enshrine the body of the 10th Panchen Lama for people to pay their respects and to remember his love for the country and his devotion to Tibetan Buddhism. On an inspection tour to Tibet in 1990, President Jiang Zemin paid a special visit to the Tashilhungpo Monastery to the memory of the 10th Panchen Lama and inquired about the construction of the hall. With careful choosing of the design, the construction started on September 20, 1990. The state allocated 64.24 million yuan of special funds, and 614 kilograms of gold and 275 kilograms of silver to be used in building the hall. The project lasted three years. A grand inaugural ceremony was held on September 4, 1993 and the hall was named Shesongnamgyi, meaning sacrificial hall for the three sages of Paradise, Human World and Nether World. The naming itself was a serious matter. Four names were submitted, and each was wrapped inside a zanba in the shape of a ball. The four balls were put in a bottle before the body of the Panchen Lama. After three days of sutra chanting, a ball jumped out of the bottle when it was being shaken. Peeling off the zanba, the name appeared Shesongnamgyi. The 35.25-meter-high sacrificial hall covers a floor space of 1,933 square meters, and its wall is 1.83 meters thick. The style of the building is at once traditional and modern, displaying both ethnic and religious features.
The 11.55-meter-high pagoda covers 253 square meters, its exterior covered with a layer of gold and inlaid with pearls and precious stones. On the pagoda are 818 bags, which hold 24 different kinds of stones, altogether 6,794 pieces. Strictly, in accord with religious rituals, the interior of the pagoda is composed of three storeys. The first storey holds barley, wheat, rice, tealeaves, salt, various kinds of dried fruits and candies, sandalwood, various medical herbs, silk and satin, elaborately carved saddles, pilose antlers, rhinoceros horns, silver, pearls, stones, and kasaya and Tibetan costumes. The second storey holds Tripitaka, classical works by the three founders of the Gelug Sect, works by all the Panchen Lamas in history and Buddhist scriptures written with gold powder ink. The top storey has Buddhist scriptures and Buddha statues. On August 30, 1993, the body of the 10th Panchen Lama was moved into the pagoda. The body was first put in a sandalwood bier, which was then put into a specially made safety cabinet and finally moved into the Precious Bottle in the pagoda. At the entrance is a life-size statue of the 10th Panchen Lama. Around the body are a variety of religious articles, such as kasaya, tangka painting scrolls, Buddha statues and scriptures.
Deqen Galsang Phodrang is the summer palace of the Panchen Lama. The summer palace of the Panchen Lama was originally built in Gongjor Lingka; thus, it is also called Gongjor Ling Palace. In 1954, the Nyang Qu River flooded due to snow avalanche and the rare floods destroyed the Gongjor Ling Palace. Because of the concern of the late Premier Zhou Enlai, the state allocated funds to build Deqen Galsang Phodrang, which was called New Palace. Located east of Xigaze city, the palace comprises the living quarters for the Panchen Lama, his office and five sacrificial rooms enshrining more than 100 Buddhist statues. The building complex looks classical and elegant, with verdant trees and lush grass and flowers. The 10th Panchen Lama died there and, four months later, his body was moved to the Tashilhungpo Monastery where he was buried and worshipped.
In August on the Tibetan calendar each year, lamas in the Tashilhungpo Monastery hold the Ximoqenpo Festival the Holy Dance Festival. Originally a religious ritual to drive away evil spirits, it gradually evolved into a traditional festival in Xigaze. According to historical documents, Dainbai Nyima, the seventh Panchen Lama, first sponsored the festival about 200 years ago. On August 3 on the Tibetan calendar each year, a dance contest is held among lamas in the monastery, and the festival formally commences on August 4 and lasts three days until August 6, when it is open to the public. The monastery now boasts 39 lamas who can dance 61 different kinds of dances. A huge tent is set up on a platform. On its left are seats for distinguished guests; on its right is the orchestra of the monastery; and in front of the platform is the audience who have traveled far to attend. The whole activity is imbued with a strong religious fervor and follows a strict protocol. The dance is simple in rhythm and slow in execution. To enliven the atmosphere, some short, light pieces are performed between the dances, which always make the audience rock with laughter. During the three-day festival, dozens of holy dances will be performed, such as Buddha's Warrior Attendant Dance, Skeleton Dance, Deer and Cow Dance, Bhiksu Dance and Six Longevity Dance.
On the first day of the festival, the first to take the stage are people wearing deity masks, who dance while circling the stage before retreating backstage. Several minutes later, four ghosts jump onto the stage; they have long fingers and toes like skeletons. They dance and then retreat, too. The third group, wearing iron hats, dances while circling the stage. The fourth group of 20 enters the stage with hats and different silk ribbons hanging on their bodies. The fifth come to the stage imitating the animals. The sixth groups are clothed in yellow, red, indigo-blue and purple masks, baggy pattern clothes and hats with tassels. Among the seventh group, four lamas dress up like ghosts, carrying a body molded of butter and zanba; deities follow them. After chanting sutras, the dancers stab the body with a knife, pour oil on dry firewood, light it and throw the body (representing ghost) into the fire.
The second day starts with a lama wearing a large Buddha mask and sitting straight on a lotus seat, motionless like a wood or clay sculpture, with two boys waiting on him on both sides. On the stage, are two lamas wearing masks and colorful clothes, and dancing according to the rhythm. They soon retreat. Then a pair of lamas dressing up like guards of Dharma comes onto the stage, followed by more than ten pairs. The last four wear skeleton masks and strange costumes. Two small ghosts carry a bag of zanba and let the four in skeleton masks take zanba out to spread in all directions.
On the third day, six images of longevity appear on the stage: crane, deer, human, mountain, water and village. The lama sitting on the lotus seat expounds Buddhist scriptures to the wolf and deer. Two white-haired old men then appear on the stage, holding bows and arrows and aiming at the wolf and deer upon seeing them. The lama stops them, telling them it is a sin to kill. Then he talks eloquently about the cycle of incarnation. Finally, the old men and the animals, led by the lama, ascend to the immortal world.
Brief Introduction of Shigatse
Shigatse connects with three countries of Nepal, Bhutan and Sikkim in the south, Ngari in the west, Nagqu in the north and Lhasa and Shannan in the east. It occupies an area of 176,000 square kilometers, is 800 kilometers from east to west and 220 kilometers from north to south, with a border of 1,354 kilometers.
Historically, Shigatse was called Tsang, which was an important administrative district of Tibet. During the reign of the Tubo Kingdom, the ruling class divided its central part into two divisions of Wei and Tsang, according to geographic conditions. Tsang, with Shigatse as its center, was again divided into Yeru (present-day Nyang Qu River area) and Rulha (present-day upper reaches of the Yarlung Zangbo River). The area extends to Gamba La Mountains in the east and Kangdese Mountains in the west. Because Tsang is located mostly along the upper Yarlung Zangbo River, it was also called Houtsang, a name still used today. In the 13th century, the Yuan Dynasty divided Tibet into thirteen 10,000 household units, and Shigatse had six namely, Qoimai, Xalhu, Jigmei, Lhadoiqain, Lhadoilho and Xangba. During the reign of the Pagmo Zhuba Kingdom, this organizational system in Tibet was abolished and was replaced with 13 zones (counties). Shigatse had also set up counties like Rinbung, Shigatse, Bainang and Gyangze. Early the last century, the Tibetan government promoted Shigatse to the level of gyizong (district), which had under its jurisdiction 16 counties and 30 or so independent shikas (manor). After the Peaceful Liberation of Tibet in 1951, two branch Working Committees were established in Shigatse and Gyangze, respectively. In 1956, an administrative office at the district level was established. In 1959, the Prefecture Commissioner's Office was set up in Shigatse and Gyangze, respectively. In 1964, the two offices was merged into one and was named Shigatse Prefecture Commissioner's Office, and renamed in 1978 as Shigatse Administrative Office.
Under the jurisdiction of Shigatse Administrative Office are the city of Shigatse at the county level, 17 counties of Gyangze, Bainang, Kangma, Yadong, Rinbung, Namling, Xitongmoin, Larze, Sagya, Kamba, Dinggye, Tingri, Nyalam, Gyilung, Ngamring, Saga, Zongba, and Zham port, the largest State trade port in Tibet. In the district are 218 townships (including 12 towns), 1,752 villagers committees and 28 urban residents committees.
Included in a population of 609,228 in 1997 were 554,704, or 91.1 percent farmers and herdsmen. Tibetans formed 97 percent of the population, and the other 3 percent was composed of Han Chinese and other 15 ethnic groups, such as Hui, Monggol, Tu, Manchu, Miao and Zhuang. There were 1,875 Xia'erba people. The population in Shigatse forms one-fourth of the population in the Tibet Autonomous Region, and the density of population is 3.3 people per square kilometer. Most of the people live in the Yarlung Zangbo River area, and the western pastoral area is sparsely inhabited.
Shigatse is located mostly between the middle of the Himalayas and the middle of the Kangdese-Nyainqentanglha ranges. The southern and northern terrains are high, while the South Tibet Plateau and the Yarlung Zangbo River constitute the low-lying middle area. Formed of high mountains, wide valleys, lakes and basins, this land has a varied topography with an average elevation of more than 4,000 meters.
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