Experience Xizang for the first time
Xizang National Highway 318 is a route full of mystery and magnificent scenery. For me, who set foot on this road for the first time, my heart is full of excitement and expectation. This road is not only a transportation hub, but also an art gallery of nature. On the first day from Chengdu to Xizang, I was deeply shocked by the beautiful scenery along the way.
Along the way, the snow capped mountains towered into the clouds, and the snowy peaks shimmered with silver in the sunlight, as if within reach. Although the temperature is cold, the fresh air and pure scenery make people feel incredibly comfortable and peaceful. Walking on this road feels like entering a secluded fairyland, where all the troubles are forgotten.
National Highway 318 in Xizang has not only magnificent snow mountains, but also vast grasslands. Whenever the car passes through one grassland after another, I can’t help but stop and quietly enjoy the endless green ocean. The yaks on the grassland leisurely graze, while the herdsmen in the distance are busy, making life seem so peaceful and beautiful.
In addition to the natural landscape, the villages and temples along Xizang 318 are also full of unique cultural atmosphere. Every time I pass by a village, I see the villagers wearing traditional Tibetan costumes, their smiles are so sincere and enthusiastic. In the temple, the sound of monks reciting scriptures echoes in the air, giving people a spiritual baptism.
The first time I experienced Xizang National Highway 318, I felt not only the visual shock, but also the touch of the soul. This road is not only a journey to Xizang, but also a spiritual journey to discover oneself and feel the nature. Every scenic spot and scenery has left me feeling incredibly surprised and moved.
Hidden attraction one: Basongcuo
Basongcuo is located in Gongbujiangda County, Xizang. It is a high mountain lake surrounded by snow mountains. The lake water is crystal clear. The quiet environment makes it an ideal resort. The surrounding scenery of Basongcuo Lake is picturesque, with the emerald green water and the blue sky and white clouds complementing each other, making one linger and forget to leave. Hiking is a major characteristic activity here, where visitors can enjoy the gifts of nature along the path by the lake and feel the tranquility and beauty brought by each step.
The small wooden house by the lake provides accommodation services and is an ideal place to stay away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Although the accommodation facilities here are simple, they are full of Tibetan characteristics, warm and comfortable. At night, lying in the wooden house, one can see the stars in the sky through the window, as if within reach. In the early morning, the thin mist on the lake gradually dissipated, revealing the shimmering lake water, which was refreshing and delightful.
Basongcuo is not only a natural scenic spot, but also a cultural treasure. The Cuozhong Gongba Temple on the small island in the center of the lake has a history of over 1500 years and is one of the important temples of the Ningma sect of Tibetan Buddhism. While admiring the scenery of the lake and mountains, visitors can also visit this ancient temple and experience the rich religious atmosphere and rich historical culture.
For tourists who enjoy photography, Basongcuo is undoubtedly an excellent shooting location. Whether it’s the morning mist or the afterglow under the sunset, every moment is worth recording. The scenery here varies throughout the four seasons, and no matter when you visit, you can discover the different charms of nature.
In short, Basongcuo is an excellent tourist destination that combines natural beauty and cultural heritage, suitable for tourists who seek tranquility and love nature. Whether it’s hiking, photography, or simple relaxation, this place can meet your needs.
Hidden attraction 2: Ranwu Lake
Ranwu Lake, located in Changdu, Xizang, is a natural scenic spot famous for its blue water and magnificent scenery. This lake is surrounded by continuous snow capped mountains and dense forests, forming a picturesque natural landscape that attracts many tourists to come and admire and take photos.
For photography enthusiasts, Ranwu Lake is undoubtedly an unmissable filming location. In the early morning, the lake shimmered with warm light under the reflection of dawn, reflecting the surrounding snow capped mountains and green trees, and the scenery was like a dream. At dusk, as the sun sets in the west, the lake surface turns into a golden mirror, reflecting the brilliant colors of the sky, like a fairyland on earth.
Ranwu Lake is not only visually stunning, but its surrounding natural environment also provides abundant exploration activities. There are multiple hiking routes in the lake area, suitable for tourists with different physical abilities. Whether strolling by the lake or climbing the surrounding mountains, one can fully immerse oneself in the embrace of nature.
In addition, the ecosystem of Ranwu Lake is also quite rich. This is a habitat for many rare animals and plants, such as Tibetan antelopes and snow leopards. While enjoying the beautiful scenery, tourists also have the opportunity to observe these precious wild animals, thereby increasing their awareness of nature conservation.
In short, Ranwu Lake is not only a visual feast, but also a refreshing natural paradise. Whether it’s people who enjoy photography, hiking, or simply enjoying nature, Wuhu Lake can meet their needs. This beautiful lake hidden in the depths of Xizang deserves everyone to go there and feel its unique charm.
Hidden attraction three: Moto
Motuo, known as “a secret place in a secret place”, is located in the southeast of Xizang and is a unique place with both natural scenery and cultural landscape. Due to extremely inconvenient transportation, Moto still maintains more pristine landscapes and has become a paradise for adventure enthusiasts.
The natural scenery of Motuo can be considered magnificent. Here, there are dense primitive forests, turbulent rivers, and towering peaks. The unique geographical location makes the climate of Moto diverse, ranging from low altitude tropical rainforests to high-altitude glaciers and snow capped mountains, with rich and varied landscapes. At every corner, there will be new surprises waiting for explorers.
In addition to stunning natural landscapes, Motuo’s cultural landscapes are also very rich. There are ethnic minorities such as the Menba and Luoba living here, who preserve their unique culture and traditions. While exploring, tourists can also gain a deeper understanding of the living customs of these ethnic groups and experience the unique cultural charm.
Due to its remote location, the transportation conditions in Motuo are relatively poor. The road to Motuo is winding and winding, and the climate is unpredictable. Explorers need to be fully prepared. However, it is precisely these difficult transportation conditions that enable Moto to maintain its original natural appearance and become a dream destination for many adventure enthusiasts.
In short, Moto, with its unique natural scenery and rich cultural landscape, has attracted countless travelers who aspire to explore and explore. Here, you can not only enjoy magnificent natural landscapes, but also experience the authentic ethnic culture. If you are passionate about exploration, Mott is definitely one of the hidden attractions you cannot miss.
Hidden attraction four: Mount Nanjiabawa
Mount Nanjiabawa, as one of the famous sacred mountains in Tibet, has attracted the attention of countless tourists with its towering and majestic posture. Its main peak has an altitude of 7782 meters and is known as the “paradise in the clouds”. This mountain peak not only has significant geographical significance, but also has profound cultural and religious connotations for the Tibetan people.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Mount Namjabaya is a challenging destination. The snow mountain climbing route here is famous for its steep and variable weather conditions, and each step requires climbers to have a high level of skill and perseverance. However, this challenge is also a dream in the hearts of mountaineers, and being able to conquer Mount Nanjiabawa means reaching a peak in life.
In addition to the climbing experience, the natural ecosystem around Mount Nanjiabawa is also extremely rich. There are a wide variety of animal and plant resources here, including many rare alpine plants and animals. Visiting these natural landscapes not only allows people to feel the grandeur and mystery of nature, but also enhances their understanding and awareness of ecological protection. The forest area of Mount Nanjiabawa is a habitat for many birds and small mammals, and visitors who enjoy bird watching can have a surprising journey here.
In addition, Mount Nanjiabawa also boasts a unique cultural landscape. In the village at the foot of the mountain, tourists can experience pure Tibetan culture. The warm hospitality and unique folk customs of the local residents added a lot of color to the entire journey. Whether participating in Tibetan traditional festivals or tasting authentic Tibetan food, tourists can have a deeper understanding of Xizang culture.
Overall, Mount Nanjiabawa is not only a challenging climbing destination, but also a tourist destination full of natural and cultural charm. Each side of it is worth savoring, and it has become one of the hidden scenic spots that can’t be missed on Xizang 318 online.
Hidden attraction five: Lulang Linhai
Lulang Linhai, known as “Little Switzerland in Xizang”, shows a natural landscape like a fairy tale. The forests, meadows, and villages here are like a serene and beautiful painting. Whether it’s travelers who love nature or those seeking tranquility, the Lulang Forest Sea can bring unparalleled experiences.
The forests of Lulang Forest Sea are dense, the grasslands are vast, and the scenery varies throughout the four seasons. In spring, a hundred flowers bloom and the fragrance overflows; In summer, green trees provide shade and are cool and pleasant; In autumn, the layers of forests are dyed and colorful; In winter, the snow is shining brightly, like a fairyland. Every season here can bring new surprises and emotions to tourists.
For tourists who enjoy outdoor activities, Lulang Linhai is undoubtedly an excellent choice. You can choose to camp here and enjoy the tranquility and beauty under the starry sky at night. Cycling is also an extremely popular activity, riding on winding paths to experience the fresh air and surrounding scenery. Hiking allows you to delve deeper into every corner of the Lulang Forest, discovering hidden beauty and secrets.
Lulang Linhai is not only a paradise for nature enthusiasts, but also a paradise for photography enthusiasts. Every scenery here is like a beautiful painting, and every casual shot is a classic. Whether it’s the morning mist or the evening sunset, the beauty of the Lulang Forest always lingers in people’s minds.
In addition, the village of Lulang Linhai is also worth visiting. The villagers here are simple and enthusiastic, and you can experience the unique charm of local Tibetan culture in the village. Tasting authentic Tibetan cuisine, listening to melodious Tibetan songs, and experiencing traditional Tibetan handicrafts will all become unforgettable memories for you.
In short, the Lulang Forest Sea is a charming hidden attraction, whether it is natural scenery or cultural landscape, which can make every tourist who comes here feel the tranquility and joy of the soul.
Hidden attraction six: Chayu
Chayu, located in the southeast of Xizang, is a picturesque area famous for its magnificent natural landscape and rich cultural heritage. This place integrates snow capped mountains, lakes, and grasslands, forming a diverse ecosystem. The natural landscape here is not only beautiful, but also very primitive, undisturbed by traces of commercialization.
The snow capped mountains in Chayu are one of its most striking features. The towering mountain peaks appear particularly spectacular against the backdrop of blue sky and white clouds, attracting many mountaineering and photography enthusiasts to come and see their charm. The lake is like a mirror, reflecting the surrounding mountains and grasslands, presenting a peaceful and harmonious scene. On the grassland, with lush green grass and wild flowers everywhere, it is an ideal place for hiking and picnics.
In addition to its natural beauty, Chayu also preserves many traditional Tibetan villages and temples, making it an excellent place to experience Tibetan culture. The residents of the village still maintain their traditional way of life, and their warm hospitality makes every visitor feel the warmth of home. Temples are the center of spirit and culture, with not only exquisite religious architecture but also many precious Buddhist artworks.
Chayu’s culture and natural landscape complement each other, making it one of the hidden attractions that can’t be missed on Xizang 318. Whether it’s travelers pursuing natural beauty or tourists interested in Tibetan culture, Chayu can meet their needs and provide them with an unforgettable travel experience.
Travel Tips
The best travel time is from May to October each year. During this period, the weather in Xizang was relatively warm, the sky was often sunny, and the scenery was particularly charming. The green mountains and waters in late spring and early summer, as well as the golden grasslands in autumn, are both beautiful scenery that cannot be missed along the 318 National Highway. In addition, this period is also the season when wild flowers bloom, and the natural scenery along the way is more diverse and colorful.
In terms of transportation, it is recommended to choose self driving or chartering. Self driving tours not only allow for flexible itinerary arrangements, but also allow you to stay at any time and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way. And charter cars are suitable for tourists who don’t want to drive on their own, allowing them to enjoy the journey more easily and freely. Regardless of the method chosen, it is important to ensure that the vehicle is in good condition and to have prior knowledge of road conditions to ensure safety.
In terms of accommodation, you can choose homestays or hotels along the way. Homestays not only offer affordable prices, but also allow you to better experience the local customs and traditions. Many homestay owners are very enthusiastic and willing to share their life stories and local travel suggestions. And hotels provide a more comfortable resting environment, suitable for tourists who have high requirements for accommodation quality.
Regarding the budget, the estimated cost of the entire itinerary is between $1000 and $2000. This budget covers transportation, accommodation, catering, and other personal expenses. The specific cost may vary depending on the individual’s chosen mode of transportation, accommodation standards, and consumption habits. It is recommended to make a detailed budget plan before departure to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.