The Northern Route of Ngari: Crossing the Forbidden Zone of Life to Meet Your True Self

The Northern Route of Ngari, located in western Tibet, delves deep into the heart of the "Roof of the World," offering a dreamlike journey that connects the most breathtaking highland landscapes with mysterious cultural heritage. This route traverses the vast wilderness of the uninhabited Changtang region in northern Tibet, dotted with sacred lakes like Lake Manasarovar and Namtso, and towering sacred mountains such as Mount Kailash and Nyenchen Tanglha. Historical relics like the ruins of the Guge Kingdom and Tholing Monastery whisper tales of past glory. In Tibetan legends, Mount Kailash is the abode of gods, the waters of Lake Manasarovar can cleanse sins, and the overnight disappearance of the Guge Kingdom remains an unsolved mystery. The unique geographical features and profound cultural heritage attract countless travelers to this enigmatic land. 🛬【Itinerary】 Recommended duration: 10–13 days to fully appreciate the grandeur and mystery of the Northern Route of Ngari. Sample itinerary: D1: Lhasa → Yamdrok Lake → Karola Glacier → Shigatse Depart from Lhasa, cross the Gampa La Pass, and encounter the jade-like waters of Yamdrok Lake. Then visit the awe-inspiring Karola Glacier before arriving in Shigatse in the evening. D2: Shigatse → Lhatse → Saga Travel westward along National Highway 318, passing through Lhatse and enjoying the highland scenery before arriving in Saga for the night. D3: Saga → Zhongba → Lake Manasarovar → Lake Rakshastal → Darchen Visit the "Sacred Lake" Manasarovar and the "Ghost Lake" Rakshastal, experiencing their contrasting atmospheres. Arrive in Darchen in the evening for a distant view of Mount Kailash. D4: Darchen → Mount Kailash Kora (optional) → Zanda If opting for the kora, embark on the sacred pilgrimage around Mount Kailash. Otherwise, head directly to Zanda, marveling at the unique landscape of the Zanda Earth Forest along the way. D5: Zanda → Guge Kingdom Ruins → Tholing Monastery → Zanda Explore the mysterious ruins of the Guge Kingdom and visit Tholing Monastery, feeling the weight of history. Return to Zanda in the evening. D6: Zanda → Shiquanhe Cross uninhabited areas to reach Shiquanhe, the capital of Ngari Prefecture, for a short rest. D7: Shiquanhe → Gê'gyai → Xiongba → Yare → Rendo Township Enter the core section of the Northern Route of Ngari, passing through deserts and grasslands before arriving in Rendo Township. D8: Rendo Township → Lake Ngariqung → Lake Renqingxiupu → Lake Taruo → Lake Zabuye → Coqên Encounter multiple highland lakes, each with distinct colors like gems embedded in the earth. Stay overnight in Coqên. D9: Coqên → Lake Zarinamco → Lake Tangra Yumco → Wenbu South Village Visit Lake Zarinamco and Lake Tangra Yumco, staying overnight in Wenbu South Village to experience the tranquility of a lakeside settlement. D10: Wenbu South Village → Wenbu North Village → Nyima Travel along Lake Tangra Yumco to Nyima County, enjoying the lake and mountain views from different angles. D11: Nyima → Lake Daze → Lake Seribu → Lake Siling → Bangor Admire several lakes, with Lake Siling, Tibet's largest lake, offering stunning beauty. Stay overnight in Bangor. D12: Bangor → Namtso → Holy Elephant Gate Head to Namtso and visit the Holy Elephant Gate, marveling at the breathtaking lake views and unique landforms. Optional lakeside camping or lodging. D13: Holy Elephant Gate → Damxung → Lhasa On the return journey, revisit Namtso before passing through Damxung back to Lhasa, concluding the trip. ⛺【Must-Visit Attractions】 Mount Kailash: Revered as the center of the world by Bon, Hinduism, and Tibetan Buddhism, its pyramid-shaped peak is perpetually snow-capped. A kora (circumambulation) around the mountain is believed to accumulate immense merit, making it a sacred site for countless devotees. Lake Manasarovar: One of Tibet's three sacred lakes, its crystal-clear waters are said to purify the soul. The surrounding scenery, framed by Mount Kailash, exudes a divine aura. Guge Kingdom Ruins: The once-glorious Guge Kingdom vanished overnight, leaving behind majestic palaces, temples, and cave ruins. Its mysterious history and spectacular architecture attract explorers. Zanda Earth Forest: The world's most typical and extensive Tertiary stratum weathering formation, its bizarre shapes create a dreamlike landscape under shifting light, a paradise for photographers. Lake Siling: Tibet's largest lake and a haven for migratory birds, its vast blue waters and surrounding wildlife embody untamed beauty. Lake Tangra Yumco: The largest sacred lake in Bon religion and the cradle of the ancient Zhangzhung civilization. Its elongated, deep waters and the idyllic Wenbu South Village on its shores offer serene beauty. 🍩【Must-Try Foods】 Yak Meat: Ngari's yak meat is firm and nutritious. Try yak jerky for its chewiness or yak hotpot, where tender meat pairs with local vegetables in a rich, flavorful broth. Tibetan Yogurt: Fermented from yak milk, it has a thick texture and tangy flavor. Sweetened with sugar or honey, it’s a refreshing treat. Butter Tea: A highland staple made from butter and strong tea, it provides energy and helps with altitude sickness, offering a rich, memorable taste. Tsampa: A traditional Tibetan staple made from roasted barley flour mixed with butter tea or barley wine. Easy to carry and filling, it’s a must-try for experiencing Tibetan cuisine. 🏨【Accommodation Guide】: Choose your preferred star rating—our planners will book according to your needs. 🚌【Transport Guide】: Private car service throughout for comfort and privacy. 🧡【Tips】 Altitude Sickness Prevention: With an average elevation above 4,500m, altitude sickness is a risk. Take anti-altitude sickness medicine (e.g., Rhodiola) 1–2 weeks in advance. Carry oxygen bottles and other remedies. Avoid strenuous activity, get enough sleep, stay hydrated, and seek medical help for severe symptoms. Documents: Bring ID and border permits (required for Ngari; obtainable at your hometown or Lhasa). Some sites may check documents. Clothing: Large temperature swings mean thick down jackets, thermal pants, and windproof layers are essential year-round. Pack high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and UV-protective clothing. Comfortable hiking shoes are a must; bring professional gear if planning a kora. Supplies: Carry ample water, snacks, and basic medicines (cold, fever, stomach). Some areas lack supplies. Bring power banks and spare camera batteries to capture the journey. Environmental Care: Ngari’s fragile ecosystem demands no littering or vegetation damage. Minimize impact to preserve this pristine land. Communication/Navigation: Some areas have weak or no signal. Download offline maps and navigation apps, share your itinerary with family, and stay connected.