Longzi County

Introducing Longzi County

Longzi County is located in the southern part of Shannan City, Tibet Autonomous Region, in the eastern part of the northern foothills of the Himalayas.

In March, birdsong and flowers bloom, and the scenery of Zhari Township in Lhuntse County is truly captivating. The sun shines through the newly green treetops, and the flowers bloom anew in vibrant colors. Known as the Shambhala of Tibet, it is also the most pristine ecologically preserved region in Shannan. The sacred Daguaxiri Mountain, one of the 24 most famous mountains in the world, is located within the Zhari Scenic Area.

Longzi County is a border county. Friends who want to travel to Longzi need to apply for a "Border Pass" in advance to avoid delays in their trip.

Climate and best time to travel

Longzi County has a plateau temperate continental monsoon climate.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Zhari Sacred Mountain in Longzi County

Located in the southeastern part of Lhuntse County, Shannan, this sacred mountain is a renowned sacred mountain in the Shannan region of Tibet. This area is home to the Lhoba people and other tribes. In the 12th century, eminent monks of the Kagyu sect of Tibetan Buddhism came to Zha Ri Mountain for spiritual practice, believing it to be the palace of the Laughing Buddha and a haven for Buddhist music. Since then, believers have begun pilgrimages to the sacred mountain. Since the first circumambulation of Zha Ri Mountain took place during the Tibetan Year of the Monkey, the tradition of circumambulating the mountain in that year has been passed down, hailing immeasurable merit. Every year from April to June of the Tibetan calendar, the circumambulations are a constant stream, creating a bustling atmosphere.

Coga Lake

Legend has it that Coga Lake is home to the sacred Coga Spring, a natural spring emanating from the body of the dakini Ngazadi. Bathing here can cure all ailments. Coga Lake is located in northeastern Lhuntse County, east of the Zhaxi Planning Area, approximately 45 kilometers from the area. It is a glacial lake with clear, pale white water and a shallow, shallow bottom. The lake is surrounded by swampland.

Zhari Scenic Area

Located in Longzi County, Shannan Prefecture, the scenic area is lush with vegetation, rich in medicinal herbs, pleasant in climate, and beautiful in scenery. It boasts mountains of flowers, cascading waterfalls, and holy snow-capped mountains, as well as vast grasslands, leisurely canyons, a clear and mirror-like holy lake, and endless primeval forests.

Recommended play time: 1-2 days

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Most Popular FAQs for Longzi County

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Longzi County, located in Tibet’s Shannan Prefecture, holds great significance in Tibetan Buddhism and culture. It is known for its sacred sites and stunning natural landscapes, which are deeply connected to Tibetan spiritual traditions. The area’s monasteries, particularly the Longzi Monastery, have long been centers of Tibetan spiritual life and pilgrimage.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Longzi County is located in Tibet’s Shannan Prefecture, south of Lhasa. The easiest way to get there is by taking a flight to Lhasa Gonggar Airport, then traveling by bus or taxi (approximately 2 hours) to Longzi County. There are no metro or walking routes due to the region's remote nature.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The region is open year-round, but the best times to visit are during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November), when the weather is mild and ideal for trekking and outdoor activities. Summer can be crowded, while winter is harsh due to the cold temperatures and snow.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance fees to Longzi County itself are generally free, but specific attractions like monasteries may charge a small entry fee. For example, Longzi Monastery has an entrance fee of approximately ¥20-¥30. Tickets can be purchased on-site or through local travel agencies in Lhasa.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is not usually necessary to book tickets in advance for most attractions in Longzi County. However, for accommodations or guided tours, especially during peak seasons (April to October), it is recommended to book a few days to a week in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Longzi County and its key attractions, you should plan for 2-3 days. This will allow time to visit monasteries, trek in the surrounding mountains, and experience the local culture.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The Longzi Monastery, a Tibetan Buddhist center with beautiful architecture and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
• The Lhasa River, offering peaceful walks and great photo opportunities along its serene banks.
• Various Tibetan villages where you can experience local traditions, handicrafts, and life in rural Tibet.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available through local tour operators and usually offer services in Mandarin. Some tours may have English-speaking guides, particularly for international tourists. Audio guides are rarely available.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Longzi Monastery, especially with its panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
• The Lhasa River, which offers several scenic spots along its banks.
• Traditional Tibetan villages, where the unique architecture and landscapes provide great photography opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the Longzi Monastery for a cultural immersion, then spend the afternoon walking along the Lhasa River. On the second day, take a trek into the surrounding valleys or visit nearby Tibetan villages for a deeper cultural experience. If time allows, explore local markets for handmade crafts.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits or light shows are not common in Longzi County due to its rural and remote nature. Special tours, especially trekking and cultural heritage tours, can be arranged with local guides but are typically during the day.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Longzi County is generally less crowded than the more popular destinations in Tibet like Lhasa. The best times to visit to avoid crowds are during the spring and autumn months (April to June and September to November), as summer can bring more visitors, particularly during Tibetan holidays.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

In Longzi County, there are basic facilities such as public toilets and small local shops. Food options are primarily local Tibetan cuisine, such as momo (dumplings) and butter tea. For rest, simple tea houses or local guesthouses are available. It's advisable to bring bottled water and snacks, especially for treks.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The attraction is somewhat challenging for elderly or disabled visitors due to the terrain and high altitude. However, some areas, like Longzi Monastery, are relatively accessible. Families with children will also need to consider the elevation and physical demands of trekking in the area.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is necessary, especially in more remote areas like Longzi County. While larger towns may accept mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay, it is best to carry cash, particularly for smaller purchases or in rural areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Local Tibetan restaurants are available in Longzi County, offering dishes like yak meat, momo, and butter tea. In nearby towns like Lhasa, you can find a wider variety of restaurants serving Chinese and international cuisine.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available in Tibet, though vegan choices can be limited. Halal food options are rare, but can be found in larger cities like Lhasa. It's advisable to communicate dietary preferences in advance when possible.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are simple guesthouses and Tibetan-style hotels in Longzi County. For more comfort and amenities, you can stay in Lhasa or other larger towns and travel to Longzi County for day trips. During peak season, it's recommended to book accommodations in advance.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple in Lhasa are easily reachable from Longzi County and can be visited on a day trip.
• The Yamdrok Lake, a stunning high-altitude lake, is also a popular nearby attraction worth visiting.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops in Longzi County and surrounding areas sell traditional Tibetan handicrafts such as prayer wheels, thangkas (painted scrolls), Tibetan jewelry, and woolen items like shawls and carpets. Local tea and spices are also popular souvenirs.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Longzi County, you can travel back to Lhasa by bus or private car. From Lhasa, you can take flights to other regions of Tibet or mainland China. Long-distance buses and trains are also available from Lhasa to other parts of Tibet.