Before turning 30, I traversed the map of China and arrived in Nagqu, Tibet!

Encountering Tibet, I found myself in Nagqu! I hope to live freely before 30—perhaps driving an off-road vehicle through uninhabited areas, chasing yak herds to find grassland wolves, riding a motorcycle across the prairie highways, challenging the world's highest peak, enduring the trials of extreme cold and heat, or meditating under the clear night sky. Or maybe just pausing to relax in the sunlight with a dog in my arms... Nagqu, located in northern Tibet with an average altitude of over 4,500 meters, is the core region of the northern Tibetan plateau. It boasts both breathtaking natural landscapes and profound cultural heritage. For me, it was not only a test of physical endurance and willpower but also a journey of spiritual purification. Below are the eight most worthwhile attractions in Nagqu, covering lakes, grasslands, religious culture, and hidden scenic wonders: 1. **Namtso Lake (Heavenly Lake)** - **Features:** Tibet’s second-largest saltwater lake and one of the three holy lakes of Tibetan Buddhism, with an elevation of 4,718 meters. Its crystal-blue waters mirror the surrounding snow-capped mountains, offering ever-changing scenery across seasons. - **Highlights:** - **Holy Elephant Gate:** A natural stone arch on the northern shore resembling an elephant drinking water, a sacred photography spot. - **Circumambulation:** In summer, Tibetan pilgrims circle the lake for blessings, showcasing the power of faith. - **Sunrise & Sunset:** The lake reflects the snow mountains and twilight, resembling a painting. - **Transport:** Accessible by self-driving or chartered vehicles, passing the eastern shore via the Qinghai-Tibet Highway. 2. **Tangra Yumco** - **Features:** Tibet’s fourth-largest lake and the most sacred lake in Bon religion, shaped like a vajra and paired with Mount Dargo. - **Highlights:** - **Zhangzhung Ruins:** Ancient relics of the Zhangzhung Kingdom by the lakeside, a key area for exploring Tibet’s early civilization. - **Color-Changing Waters:** The lake shifts between deep blue and turquoise hues, with a crescent-shaped island adding mystery. - **Recommended Activity:** Hike around the lake and visit Bon temples in Wenbu South Village. 3. **Siling Co** - **Features:** Tibet’s largest saltwater lake (1,640 sq km), nicknamed "Ghost Lake" for its shifting colors. - **Highlights:** - **Wildlife Paradise:** Habitat for Tibetan antelopes, black-necked cranes, and rare species, ideal for ecological photography. - **Satellite Lakes:** 23 smaller lakes form a "jade necklace," attracting migratory birds in summer. - **Tip:** Bring a telephoto lens for best shots at dawn or dusk. 4. **Bangna Monastery (Badang Bangna Monastery)** - **Features:** A nearly 1,000-year-old Kagyu sect monastery blending Tibetan and Han architectural styles. - **Highlights:** - **Murals & Artifacts:** Houses golden scriptures, silver books, and exquisite thangkas showcasing Tibetan Buddhist art. - **Butter Lamp Festival:** Held on the 15th day of the Tibetan New Year, illuminating the monastery in sacred light. - **Surroundings:** Expansive grasslands perfect for peaceful walks. 5. **Changtang Grassland (Nagqu Alpine Grassland)** - **Features:** One of the world’s highest-altitude grasslands (400,000 sq km), lush with wildflowers in summer. - **Highlights:** - **Nomadic Culture:** Experience herder life and attend horse racing festivals (Tibetan July). - **Wildlife Encounters:** Spot Tibetan wild asses and Tibetan gazelles, embracing the plateau’s raw wilderness. - **Activities:** Horseback riding, camping, and stargazing. 6. **Cona Lake** - **Features:** The world’s highest freshwater lake (4,800 m), source of the Nujiang River, adjacent to the Qinghai-Tibet Railway. - **Highlights:** - **Train Views:** The railway runs just 20 meters from the lake, offering stunning vistas. - **Eco-Reserve:** Home to black-necked cranes and Tibetan antelopes, ideal for wildlife observation. - **Tip:** Choose a window seat on the train and visit the lakeside viewing platform. 7. **Zhuoma Canyon** - **Features:** A rare canyon in northern Tibet (15 km long), blending snow mountains and oases. - **Highlights:** - **Natural Wonders:** Glaciers, clear streams, and ancient temples coexist harmoniously. - **Hiking Haven:** Summer wildflowers and winter snowscapes make it ideal for light trekking. - **Route Suggestion:** Explore the canyon to discover an 800-year-old Kagyu monastery. 8. **Holy Elephant Gate** - **Features:** A hidden gem on Namtso’s northern shore, featuring a giant elephant-shaped rock, dubbed "Tibet’s Final Beauty." - **Highlights:** - **Photography Heaven:** The stone arch frames the lake and mountains, perfect for sunrise/sunset shots. - **Pilgrimage Culture:** Tibetans circle the gate with prayer flags and khata scarves dancing in the wind. - **Transport:** Requires an off-road vehicle; plan ahead. **Travel Tips:** 1. **Best Season:** May–October (July–August for flowers, September–October for autumn colors). 2. **Altitude Sickness:** Acclimatize slowly, carry oxygen, and avoid strenuous activity. 3. **Cultural Respect:** No photos inside temples; rotate prayer wheels clockwise. 4. **Transport:** Self-driving or chartered vehicles are essential; some sites require off-road capability. Nagqu’s grandeur and mystique lie not only in its extreme landscapes but also in its legacy of Zhangzhung civilization and Tibetan faith. The above sites cover lakes, grasslands, canyons, and religious culture—mix and match to deeply experience the soul of the "Roof of the World."