Qudennima Glacier

Introducing Qudennima Glacier

The Qudennima Glacier is located in the Shigatse region, about 40 kilometers from Gangba County to Tingri County, where the road turns off towards the Himalayas. The glacier's full name, Dorje Qudennima, means "Diamond Sun Pagoda." It's said that when a Buddhist pagoda from India passed through this area, sunlight shone upon it, giving the glacier its name. National Geographic China has described the glacier as "the end of the world."

According to Tibetan scriptures, this water can cure 424 kinds of infectious diseases and 360 kinds of acute and chronic diseases. It is the "nectar" given by Guru Padmasambhava to his believers and religious people to cure all diseases. Therefore, it is known as the "Tibetan Holy Water".

It's said that not only locals, but also many people from Shigatse, Lhasa, and other places, charter buses to this place during festivals to sample the "holy water." The spring's mouth is incredibly high, reaching an altitude of 5,128 meters. After circulating through the mountain for ten years and seven months, the water emerges from the surface, rich in minerals, truly pollution-free and with excellent taste.

Climate and best time to travel

Every spring and autumn, tens of thousands of devout believers come here from far away places to burn incense and worship Buddha, ask for "holy water" and drink "nectar".

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-2 hours

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Qudennima Glacier

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

Qudennima Glacier is part of the high Himalayas in Tibet, Shigatse. It is significant for its glaciological features, natural beauty, and as a water source for nearby rivers. The glacier area also holds ecological and scientific importance for studying climate change in high-altitude regions.

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

The glacier is located in the Shigatse region of Tibet. Access typically requires a private vehicle or organized tour from Shigatse city or nearby towns. Trekking from base points is necessary to reach the glacier itself, as public transport does not reach this remote area.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Open year-round during daylight hours.
• Best visiting months are May to October when weather is clearer and trekking conditions are safer.

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

There is no formal entrance fee. Access requires a Tibet Travel Permit, arranged offline through a licensed travel agency.

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

Yes, Tibet Travel Permits should be secured 1–2 weeks in advance through authorized travel operators.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring the glacier and surrounding trails may take from a half-day to multiple days depending on trekking plans and acclimatization stops.

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

• Main glacier terminus and ice cliffs.
• Surrounding alpine meadows and rock formations.
• Nearby peaks visible from trekking paths.
• Observation points along trekking routes for panoramic glacier views.

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

Guided trekking tours are available in English and Chinese through local operators. Audio guides are generally not provided.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Glacier terminus for full ice formation views.
• Higher points along trekking routes for panoramic shots.
• Sunrise and sunset positions for dramatic lighting on the glacier.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start from the nearest access point or village, follow marked trekking trails toward the glacier, explore observation points, and return the same way or via connecting trails through nearby valleys.

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

No night visits or light shows; special tours are daytime trekking packages offered by local tour operators.

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

The area is remote and sparsely visited. Weekdays and early morning visits are the least crowded.

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

• Limited basic facilities in nearby villages or base camps.
• Bring your own food, water, and camping equipment for trekking.
• Natural rest areas are available along trails.

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

Due to high altitude and rugged terrain, access is limited for elderly, children, or disabled visitors. Proper acclimatization and physical preparation are necessary.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is recommended as card or mobile payments are generally unavailable in remote glacier areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Small teahouses or local eateries in nearby villages; no formal restaurants near the glacier.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options may be available in local teahouses; vegan or halal options are limited.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Guesthouses or lodges in nearby villages or base camp areas.
• Some trekking operators provide tents or camping facilities.

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

• Nearby Himalayan peaks and trekking trails.
• Local Tibetan monasteries and settlements.
• Other glaciers in the Shigatse region.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Limited small shops near villages selling Tibetan handicrafts, prayer flags, and wool textiles.

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

• Private vehicle or organized tour to return to Shigatse or Tingri.
• Guided trekking tours are recommended for onward travel due to lack of public transport.