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Visitors to Maquan River can enjoy scenic walks along the riverbanks, observe local wildlife, and experience the tranquil beauty of the Tibetan plateau. The area is also a great spot for photography, particularly during sunrise or sunset, when the river reflects the surrounding mountain peaks.
The Maquan River, located in the Ngari area of Zhongba County, Shigatse City, Tibet Autonomous Region, is known as "Dangqu Kapo" in Tibetan. It is the source and upper reaches of the Yarlung Zangbo River, earning its name from the fact that it gushes down from the mouth of a neighing horse. It primarily lies within Zhongba County.
Maquan River, Shiquan River, Xiangquan River, and Kongque River are all literal translations, vividly imbuing the desolate plateau with a sense of life and becoming customary names. Flowing from the southeastern region of the sacred Mount Kailash, it is known as the "Ma Zang River" when it flows through Zhongba County, and as the "Yarlung Zangbo River" from Saga County onwards.
In its basin lie Mapangbumokha and Serizhumukkha, important castles of the 18 ancient Zhangzhung tribes. The remains of these castles still give us a glimpse of the might of ancient Zhangzhung.
Climate: Shigatse has three main regional climates. The area north of the Himalayas and south of the Gangdise-Nyainqentanglha Mountains has a plateau temperate semi-arid monsoon climate; a small area north of the Gangdise-Nyainqentanglha Mountains has a plateau subarctic monsoon semi-arid to arid climate; and the area south of the main Himalayan ridge has a plateau temperate monsoon semi-humid climate.
Best time to travel: All seasons, but spring and summer are the best.
Recommended places to visit: Lake Manasarovar and Mount Kailash
Recommended play time: 1-3 hours
free
All day
Maquan River is an important natural feature in the Shigatse region, contributing to the local ecosystem and cultural practices. The river is deeply connected to Tibetan life, providing resources for agriculture and serving as a key part of the local geography. It holds cultural significance for local Tibetan communities, often appearing in folklore and traditional stories.
Maquan River is located in the Shigatse area of Tibet, about 50 km from the city center. Visitors can take a taxi or private car from Shigatse, as public transportation options are limited. The river is accessible by car, and the surrounding area can be explored on foot or by bike.
Maquan River is open year-round and can be visited at any time of the day. The best times to visit are during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild and the landscape is at its most scenic. Sunrise and sunset provide the best lighting for photography.
There is no entrance fee to visit Maquan River as it is a natural site. However, some nearby areas or tour packages might charge for access. Tickets can be purchased through local tour operators or guides if part of a planned tour.
Booking tickets in advance is generally not required for Maquan River. However, if you are planning a guided tour, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons or holidays.
Exploring the Maquan River area typically takes 2-3 hours, depending on your interest in hiking, photography, and exploring nearby natural features. Longer stays may be required if you're exploring the surrounding Tibetan villages or participating in activities like bird watching.
The highlights of Maquan River include the river itself, with its surrounding scenic views of mountains and valleys. The best viewpoints are located along the riverbanks, offering expansive vistas of the Tibetan plateau. There are also opportunities to visit nearby Tibetan settlements for a glimpse into local culture.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and Tibetan. Audio guides may also be offered by some local tour operators, although they are less common. It is recommended to arrange a local guide to get the most out of the experience.
The best photography spots are along the river, especially at sunrise and sunset when the light reflects off the water. There are also scenic viewpoints from the surrounding hills, offering panoramic views of the river and nearby mountain ranges. Wildlife, such as migratory birds, can also provide great photographic opportunities.
A recommended itinerary would start at the river's edge, walking along the water to enjoy the natural scenery. From there, you can hike up the nearby hills for higher viewpoints. The route can be extended to nearby Tibetan villages to explore local culture and traditional Tibetan homes.
There are no night visits or light shows at Maquan River. The area is best enjoyed during daylight hours, particularly for photography and exploring the surrounding landscapes.
Maquan River is not typically crowded, especially compared to more popular tourist destinations in Tibet. To avoid any crowds, it’s best to visit on weekdays or during the off-peak seasons, such as winter or early spring.
Facilities near Maquan River are limited, with basic toilet facilities available. Visitors should bring their own food, water, and other necessities, as there are no restaurants or shops in the immediate area. There are some rest areas for breaks along the riverbanks.
The terrain around Maquan River can be uneven, and some areas may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can enjoy the area, especially the riverside, but should be supervised during walks near the water. The site is better suited for visitors with an active lifestyle.
Cash is generally preferred in the area. Mobile payment options such as Alipay and WeChat Pay may be accepted by some local businesses, but credit cards are not commonly used. It’s advisable to carry cash, especially for local purchases.
There are no restaurants directly near Maquan River. Visitors can find local food options in Shigatse, where Tibetan dishes and local snacks are available in small restaurants and cafes.
Vegetarian food options are available in Shigatse, particularly in Tibetan restaurants that cater to plant-based diets. Vegan and halal options may also be found in the area, especially considering the local Tibetan Muslim population.
There are several hotels in Shigatse, including mid-range options like the Tashi Choten Hotel and budget accommodations. These provide a comfortable stay and are easily accessible from Maquan River by taxi or private vehicle.
Nearby attractions include the Tashilhunpo Monastery, one of Tibet’s most important monasteries. Visitors can also combine the trip with a visit to the Shigatse Old City and the local markets to explore Tibetan culture further.
Souvenir shops can be found in Shigatse, offering Tibetan handicrafts such as woolen rugs, jewelry, prayer beads, and traditional Tibetan garments. Local crafts and paintings are popular among visitors.
After visiting Maquan River, the best transportation options are taxis or private vehicles to explore further in Shigatse or continue on to other Tibetan destinations like Lhasa. There are also buses and trains connecting Shigatse to other parts of Tibet.
