Zhari Namtso

Introducing Zhari Nam Co

Zha Ri Nam Co is located in the northeast of Coqen County, Ngari Prefecture, Tibet Autonomous Region, 12 kilometers from the county seat. It covers an area of ​​1,023 square kilometers and sits at an altitude of 4,613 meters. It is a large lake that stretches nearly 54 kilometers from east to west and about 20 kilometers from north to south.

Zhari Nam Co Lake is vast, with beautiful sunshine and gentle breezes during the warm season. The distant mountains are dark blue, and the shores are lined with lush grass, providing excellent pastures for the precious purple-wool goats. Along the lake, herds of Tibetan antelopes, wild donkeys, and other wild animals roam the lakeside plains.

Zha Ri Nam Co is a faulted lake. In its heyday, the lake reached a height of approximately 100 meters, two to three times its current size. The main rivers entering the lake were the Coqen Zangbo and the Dalong Zangbo. The lake's water mineralization is 13.90 grams per liter, making it a saline lake. Plants thrive on the lakeshore, with Carex sclerophyllum and Stipa purpurogenum reaching heights of 20 to 30 centimeters. The lake provides excellent pastureland in northern Tibet.

Climate and best time to travel

Traveling to Zhari Nam Co must be done during the rainy season from June to September. The weather from November to May is cold and dry, making it unsuitable for traveling to the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended playing time: about 1-2 hours

Tickets

150 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Zhari Namtso

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

Zhari Namco Lake is a sacred saltwater lake in Tibet, revered for its spiritual significance and natural beauty. It is the largest lake in Ngari Prefecture and the third-largest in Tibet, surrounded by the Gangdise Mountains.

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

Zhari Namco Lake is situated in Coqên County, Ngari Prefecture, Tibet. The most common way to reach the lake is by private vehicle or tour group, as there are no public transportation options directly to the site. Travel agencies in Lhasa offer tours to Zhari Namco Lake.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The lake is open year-round. The best time to visit is during the summer months, from May to September, when the weather is more favorable and wildlife is more active.

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

There is no entrance fee to visit Zhari Namco Lake. However, visitors may need to pay for transportation or guided tours, which can be arranged through local travel agencies.

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

Booking transportation or tours in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Zhari Namco Lake can typically be completed in a day, allowing time for sightseeing and cultural experiences.

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

• The lake's expansive shoreline and crystal-clear waters.
• Views of the surrounding Gangdise Mountains.
• Opportunities to observe local wildlife and bird species.

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

Guided tours are available through local travel agencies. Guides typically speak Mandarin, and English-speaking guides may be available upon request.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The eastern shore of the lake offers expansive views of the water and mountains.
• High vantage points along the surrounding hills provide panoramic perspectives.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A recommended itinerary includes arriving in the morning, exploring the lake's shoreline, observing wildlife, and enjoying a picnic lunch with scenic views. Depart in the afternoon or early evening.

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

Night visits are not commonly offered, and there are no light shows or special tours at Zhari Namco Lake. The area is best experienced during daylight hours.

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

Visitor numbers are generally low, but to avoid even fewer tourists, consider visiting on weekdays and during the shoulder seasons of May or September.

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

Basic facilities may be available near the lake, but it's advisable to bring your own food, water, and necessary supplies, as amenities can be limited.

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

The terrain around Zhari Namco Lake can be rugged, and accessibility may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children should be supervised due to the natural environment.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is recommended, as credit cards and mobile payments may not be accepted in the area. Ensure you have sufficient local currency for any purchases.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no restaurants or cafes directly at Zhari Namco Lake. Visitors should plan to bring their own meals or dine in nearby towns before or after their visit.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Food options are limited in the area. It's advisable to bring your own meals, including vegetarian, vegan, or halal options, as needed.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Accommodation options are limited in Coqên County. It's recommended to arrange lodging in advance through local travel agencies or consider staying in Lhasa and making a day trip.

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

Nearby attractions include Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar, which can be visited as part of a longer tour in the Ngari region.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops are limited in the area. Visitors may find traditional Tibetan handicrafts and religious items in Coqên County or Lhasa.

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

Private vehicles or tour groups are the most common means of continuing travel after visiting Zhari Namco Lake. Public transportation options are limited in the region.