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Shuanghu County belongs to Nagqu Prefecture, Tibet Autonomous Region. With an average altitude of 5,000 meters, it is the highest county in the country and even in the world.
Shuanghu County is not only the highest county in the world, but also the youngest county-level administrative region in my country. At approximately 120,000 square kilometers, it ranks fourth in terms of total area, equivalent to one Jiangsu Province or three Taiwan Provinces.
It is on such a land that unparalleled beauty is hidden: huge glaciers stand proudly in the wilderness, the rolling desert extends from the horizon to the foot of the glacier, and lakes are inlaid around the glacier like gems. This is a rare spectacle in the world where glaciers, deserts and lakes coexist.
Shuanghu County has a plateau subarctic arid climate with cold weather, frequent snow and wind, and the annual temperature difference is relatively greater than the daily temperature difference.
Puruogangri Glacier
The Puruogangri Glacier is located in Shuanghu County, Nagqu City, Tibet, and is part of the core area of the national Qiangtang Nature Reserve. After Antarctica and the Arctic, it is the world's third largest glacier and is known as the Third Pole. It is also the largest glacier in any latitude.
Shuanghu County is a remote area in Tibet, known for its unspoiled natural beauty. It holds significant cultural importance for Tibetan nomads and is deeply connected to Tibetan Buddhism. The area has been largely untouched by mass tourism, making it an ideal location for those seeking an authentic Tibetan experience.
Shuanghu County is located in the northern part of Tibet, in Nagqu Prefecture. The most common way to reach the area is by road from Lhasa, with buses or private vehicles being the primary transportation options. There are no metro systems in this remote area, and walking is more suited for exploring once you arrive.
As most of the attractions in Shuanghu County are natural sites, there are no specific opening hours. The best time to visit is from May to October when the weather is more conducive to outdoor activities like hiking and exploring. The winter months (November to April) are harsh, with freezing temperatures making travel more difficult.
Most outdoor attractions in Shuanghu County do not charge an entrance fee. Some monasteries or cultural sites may have small ticket prices, which can typically be paid on-site. Tickets for tours or visits can be purchased at the locations directly.
Booking tickets in advance is not usually necessary for the attractions in Shuanghu County. However, for guided tours or during peak seasons, it’s advisable to book at least 1-2 weeks in advance to secure availability, especially for accommodations and transportation.
Shuanghu County can be explored in 2-3 days. A day or two will allow you to visit the natural landscapes, lakes, and monasteries, while an extra day may be spent experiencing local Tibetan culture and visiting nearby villages.
Guided tours are available, especially for those visiting monasteries or cultural sites. Most guides speak Mandarin, and some may offer services in English. It’s advisable to arrange a tour in advance if you want an English-speaking guide.
Begin your visit by exploring the Tibetan Plateau and sacred lakes, followed by a trip to nearby monasteries and cultural sites. Take time to visit local villages and enjoy the authentic Tibetan atmosphere. End your visit with a nature walk or hike through the scenic areas.
Night visits and light shows are not commonly available in Shuanghu County due to its remote nature. However, the region is known for clear skies, making it a great location for stargazing. Special cultural tours may be available during Tibetan festivals.
Shuanghu County is not generally crowded, as it is a remote area with limited tourism. The least crowded times to visit are during the winter months (November to February), though the weather can be harsh. The busiest months are from May to October, especially during Tibetan festivals.
Facilities in Shuanghu County are basic. You can find toilets and some food stalls in larger towns, but the area is largely undeveloped. It’s advisable to carry sufficient food, water, and supplies, especially when traveling to remote areas.
Shuanghu County is a rural and rugged region, making it difficult for elderly, children, or disabled visitors to navigate in some areas. It’s recommended to check with tour operators for accessible options or tailored tours.
Cash is commonly used in Shuanghu County, especially in more remote areas. Mobile payments may be accepted in larger towns, but it’s advisable to carry cash for purchases in smaller villages or for emergency situations.
There are limited dining options in Shuanghu County. Most restaurants are small Tibetan eateries serving local dishes like momo (dumplings), tsampa (roasted barley), and yak meat. Larger towns in the area may have more options.
Vegetarian options are available in Shuanghu County, especially in larger towns. Vegan and halal food may be less common but could be available upon request in some restaurants catering to tourists.
Accommodation options in Shuanghu County are basic, with small guesthouses and homestays. For more comfortable stays, it’s advisable to stay in nearby larger towns or plan for accommodations in Lhasa or Nagqu Prefecture.
Small souvenir shops are available in towns near the major attractions. Common souvenirs include Tibetan textiles, jewelry, prayer beads, and small religious items like prayer wheels and statues.
The best transportation options to continue your trip after visiting Shuanghu County include buses or private vehicles to Lhasa or other major cities in Tibet. There are also trains and flights available from Lhasa to other parts of China.
