A Serene Place on Earth — Sapu Sacred Mountain

Introduction and Recommendations for Sapu Sacred Mountain
Sapu Sacred Mountain
Address: Puzonggou, Yangxiu Township, Biru County, Nagqu City, Tibet Autonomous Region
Reasons to Visit: Sapu Sacred Mountain is the highest peak in the eastern section of the Nyenchen Tanglha mountain range, with a main peak elevation of 6,956 meters. It is revered locally as the "King of Sacred Mountains" and is an important holy site for the Bon tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. The mountain has a unique shape, resembling a perfect equilateral triangle, surrounded by 12 peaks, creating a stunning "glacier + sacred lake" landscape — at the foot lies Sapu Sacred Lake (Samucuo), formed by melting snow and ice. The lake’s crystal-clear waters mirror the snow-capped peaks, creating a captivating reflection. In summer, the base is lush with red flowers and green grass, contrasting sharply with the snowy summit. Additionally, the mountain is steeped in mythical "family legends," adding a mysterious cultural aura.
Key Highlights
Natural Scenery:
Main Peak and Glaciers: The 6,956-meter main peak is snow-covered year-round, with glaciers cascading down majestically. In summer, some glaciers melt, forming a unique "Little Iceland" landscape alongside the black sand beach.
Sapu Sacred Lake: Comprising glacier lakes and the main lake, legend says the main lake thaws overnight on the 15th day of the 5th Tibetan lunar month and freezes overnight on the 15th day of the 9th month, adding a magical element.
Cultural Experience:
Religious Culture: As a Bon sacred mountain, a grand lake-circumambulation blessing ceremony is held annually on the 15th day of the 5th Tibetan lunar month, creating a spectacular scene.
Starry Sky and Golden Sunrise on the Mountain: At night, you can photograph the Milky Way over the mountain, and at dawn, witness the "Golden Sunrise on the Snow Mountain" phenomenon as the snow peaks turn golden.
Practical Information
Best Travel Time: May to September, with clear weather and thawed lakes ideal for viewing; winter (November to April) offers pure blue glacier ice but extremely cold conditions, suitable for hardcore adventurers.
Transportation Tips: Self-driving from Lhasa or Nagqu is required, about 700 kilometers in total. The last 30 kilometers are rough gravel roads, so a 4WD vehicle is recommended. Day trips to Biru County are possible, or you can stay overnight in the scenic area.
Accommodation Options: There are parking lot dormitory rooms and guesthouses (basic conditions) within the scenic area, or you can stay in Biru County or Yangxiu Township, where some hotels provide heating.
Notes:
The scenic area is at about 4,800 meters altitude, so prepare in advance for altitude sickness (e.g., take Rhodiola, carry oxygen bottles) and avoid strenuous exercise.
Weather changes drastically, with temperature differences over 20°C between morning and night, so bring windproof and warm clothing.
Respect local religious customs, do not touch religious facilities casually, avoid undeveloped areas, and strictly prohibit feeding wild animals.
Sapu Sacred Mountain, with its pristine, undeveloped natural beauty and breathtaking "glacier sacred lake" scenery, is a must-visit for niche travelers in Tibet, especially photography enthusiasts and nature explorers.