Cona County

Introducing Cona County

Coqen County is located in the southern part of the Tibet Autonomous Region, southeast of the Himalayas, bordering the Indian-occupied Luoyu region to the east, Bhutan to the west, and India to the south. It is one of the important border counties of the Tibet Autonomous Region.

Here you can find the deep blue Nariyongtso Lake, the holy Kanggedo Snow Mountain, the charming primeval forests on the frontier, and the unique Menba folk customs. It is not only the holy place where the Prince of Love Songs, the Sixth Dalai Lama, Tsangyang Gyatso, was born, but also a place where people had close contact with Indian soldiers. The scenery is beautiful.

Moreover, Coqen County is rich in special handmade souvenirs such as wooden bowls, bamboo products, Tibetan knives, and tea. It is the closest original ecological tourism area to the border of Tibet and the only national red tourism scenic spot in Tibet.

Coqen is also known as the "closest forest oxygen bar to Lhasa". The Lebu Valley and Langbo Valley in Coqen County are both unique travel destinations with pleasant climate, rich species, beautiful mountains and rivers, birdsong and fragrance of flowers, and evergreen all year round. In particular, the Lebu Valley is the main settlement of the Monba ethnic minority in my country.

Climate and best time to travel

Coqona County's climate can be broadly categorized into two types: the subtropical semi-humid to humid mountain climate of the southern Himalayas, and the high-altitude, cold climate of the northern Himalayas. The former is characterized by high humidity and rainfall, short sunshine hours, and a lack of distinct dry and rainy seasons; the latter is characterized by aridity and low rainfall, long sunshine hours, year-round cold weather, and frequent strong winds and snowstorms in winter and spring.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Nari Yongcuo

The Tibetan word for "in front of the lake" is the largest lake in Coqen County, Tibet. It is located in Quzhuomu Township, 20 kilometers north of the county seat. Here you can see snow-capped mountains, dense primeval forests, azaleas all over the mountains, lush green pastures, and rivers winding down the mountains.

Lebugou

A famous scenic spot on the south side of Mount Bola, in Cona County, Shannan City, Tibet, nestles in a grand canyon extending southward into the eastern Himalayas (the middle section of the Niangjiangqu Gorge). Its unique geographical setting has created a unique and pristine beauty: snow-capped mountains, meadows, seas of flowers, primeval forests, waterfalls, streams, and rare birds. Traveling along the road through this mysterious primeval forest, interspersed with ancient trees and bamboo groves, you'll encounter sheer cliffs, playful monkeys, and flying birds.

Recommended play time: 1 day

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Most Popular FAQs for Cona County

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

Cona County, located in Shannan Prefecture, is an important area in Tibet known for its historical significance in Tibetan Buddhism and its role as a cultural center. The region is home to several monasteries and sacred sites, particularly the Yamdrok Lake, which is revered by Tibetan Buddhists.

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

Cona County is located in the southern part of Tibet, around 100 kilometers southwest of Lhasa. The most common way to reach Cona County is by road from Lhasa, either by taxi or bus. There are no metro systems in the region, and walking or hiking is a great way to explore the local areas once you are there.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

There are no specific opening hours for most outdoor attractions, but visiting from May to October is ideal as the weather is milder, especially for hiking and sightseeing. The best months are from May to September, as winters can be extremely cold and challenging.

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

Most of the outdoor attractions in Cona County, such as Yamdrok Lake, do not have entrance fees. However, if you plan to visit specific monasteries or museums, there may be small ticket fees. Tickets can generally be purchased on-site or in nearby towns.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not typically required for most sites in Cona County. However, if you are planning to visit during the peak tourist season (May to October), it’s recommended to book accommodations and some special tours at least 1-2 weeks in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Cona County can be explored in 2-3 days, depending on the pace and interests. A day or two for exploring Yamdrok Lake and nearby monasteries, plus another day for cultural and local experiences, is sufficient to capture the essence of the area.

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

• Yamdrok Lake, one of the most sacred and beautiful lakes in Tibet, offering stunning views and a serene atmosphere.
• The Cona County Tibetan Culture Museum, showcasing Tibetan history, culture, and artifacts.
• Local Tibetan villages and monasteries, where you can interact with locals and learn about their traditions.

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

Guided tours are available in Cona County, especially for cultural sites like monasteries and the Tibetan Culture Museum. Guides typically speak Mandarin, and some guides in tourist areas may also speak English. It’s advisable to arrange for a guide in advance if needed.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The shores of Yamdrok Lake provide magnificent panoramic views and are perfect for photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.
• The Cona County Tibetan Culture Museum offers a unique view of Tibetan culture and is a great place for historical photographs.
• Scenic spots around local monasteries and villages also provide authentic, rural Tibetan landscapes for photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with a visit to Yamdrok Lake for stunning landscapes and sacred sites, then explore the nearby monasteries and Tibetan villages. End the trip by visiting the Tibetan Culture Museum to gain insights into the region's history and traditions.

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

Night visits or light shows are not commonly available in Cona County. However, the stars in the Tibetan plateau sky are stunning, and stargazing is a popular activity. Special cultural tours may be available during Tibetan festivals.

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

Cona County is not usually overcrowded, but during the peak season (May to October), some areas, especially around Yamdrok Lake, can become busier. The least crowded times are during the off-season (November to April).

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

Basic facilities such as toilets, food stalls, and water are available in towns near major attractions. Rest areas and small shops selling snacks and souvenirs can be found in popular tourist spots, but more remote areas may have limited amenities.

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

While Cona County is generally accessible, some outdoor areas, especially around Yamdrok Lake and the hills, may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors to navigate. It’s best to check with local tour operators for accessible options.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly used in rural areas, and mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) may be accepted in larger towns. It is recommended to carry enough cash for smaller shops and remote areas where cards may not be accepted.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are small Tibetan restaurants and cafes in towns near the main attractions, offering traditional Tibetan dishes like butter tea, momo (dumplings), and yak meat dishes. Larger towns may offer more variety in terms of dining options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available, especially in larger towns. Vegan and halal food options may be more limited, but some restaurants catering to tourists may offer these options upon request.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Accommodations in Cona County include guesthouses and small hotels, especially in towns near major attractions. For more comfort, you may find larger hotels in Shannan or Lhasa, which are within a few hours' drive.

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

• Yamdrok Lake is the main highlight, but nearby monasteries such as Samding Monastery and Pelkor Chode Monastery in Gyantse are worth visiting as well.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops in Cona County sell traditional Tibetan crafts, such as hand-woven textiles, jewelry, and religious items like prayer beads and prayer wheels. Local tea and yak wool products are also popular.

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

After visiting Cona County, the best transportation options are buses or private taxis to Lhasa or other major towns in Tibet. There are also flights available from Lhasa if you plan to continue your journey to other regions of China.