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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.
Numerous lakes surround the glacier, fed by glacial meltwater. The largest is Linggocuo (also known as East Lake), located west of the ice source. Between the lakes and the ice source lies a vast expanse of desert, with continuous crescent-shaped sand dunes close to the ice sheet. The desert area east of the ice sheet alone exceeds 500 square kilometers.
In the surrounding areas, you can also see herds of Tibetan antelopes, wild yaks, Tibetan wild donkeys and other wild animals.
The glacier is basically closed from October to April. From November to April of the following year, you can enjoy the wonders of Linggocuo Lake's winter ice walls, ice caves, and other wonders.
300 yuan/person
The Puruogangri Glacier will enter a period of ecological recovery. To ensure that the ecological environment in the glacier area continues to improve, all types of tourism reception services will be suspended from June 1, 2018.
Puruogangri Glacier is one of the largest glaciers in Tibet, located in Nagqu Prefecture. It is significant for its unique high-altitude ecosystem, scientific research on climate change, and its pristine natural beauty that draws trekkers and nature enthusiasts.
The glacier is in northern Nagqu Prefecture, Tibet. Visitors typically travel from Lhasa via private car or guided tour. Public transport is limited, and access may require off-road vehicles or trekking to reach certain viewpoints.
Accessible from May to September, when weather is milder. Snow and harsh conditions make winter visits difficult. Daylight hours are best for trekking and photography.
There is no standard entrance fee; fees may apply if joining organized trekking tours. Tickets and tour bookings are usually arranged offline through travel agencies or local guides.
Advance booking is recommended for guided tours and accommodation, ideally 1–2 months before travel, especially during peak season.
Exploration can take 1–3 days depending on trekking routes and stops for photography and sightseeing.
Guided tours are available in Chinese and English; audio guides are generally not offered.
Start from the base camp or nearest accessible point, hike along marked glacier trails, reach key viewpoints, and return via the same or alternative scenic path. Guided treks provide the best route.
Night visits are not typical due to safety and limited facilities. Special tours may be offered by local trekking agencies during summer months.
The glacier is generally uncrowded due to its remote location. Weekdays during May–June or September are the least crowded times.
Facilities are minimal. Carry sufficient water, food, and basic gear. Rest areas are limited to base camps or local lodges.
Due to high altitude and rugged terrain, access is challenging. Elderly, young children, and disabled visitors should proceed with caution and may need assistance.
Cash (Chinese Yuan) is recommended; card or mobile payments are rarely accepted at remote sites.
Restaurants are scarce; small local eateries or tea houses may exist near base camps or nearby towns.
Vegetarian options may be limited to local Tibetan dishes; vegan and halal options are rare.
Basic lodges and guesthouses are available in nearby towns. Accommodation options near the glacier itself are extremely limited and often arranged via tour operators.
Souvenir shops are limited; typical items include Tibetan handicrafts, prayer flags, and wool products, mostly found in nearby towns.
Private vehicles, guided tours, or buses back to Nagqu city or onward to Lhasa are the main options. Domestic flights from Lhasa can connect to other parts of Tibet and China.
