Blue Ice Season: A Frozen Poem | Laigu Glacier

Laigu Glacier, a vast maritime glacier, surpasses all other glaciers in Tibet with its magnificent scale and breadth, offering unparalleled viewing opportunities compared to continental glaciers. However, it also possesses a unique temperament. In summer, Laigu Glacier rarely reveals its full splendor. Rain washes over the surrounding mountains, causing the glacial lakes to turn a murky yellow. Although occasional blue ice floes can be seen, they pale in comparison to the breathtaking beauty of the glacier in winter. Winter's Laigu Glacier is like an ice beauty who has shed her disguise and donned her finest attire, her beauty captivating and unforgettable.

In the morning, from Laigu Village, you can witness the sun illuminating the distant glacier, creating a golden spectacle. Laigu Glacier is actually composed of six glaciers: Meixi Glacier, Yalong Glacier, Ruojiao Glacier, Xiongjia Glacier, and Niuma Glacier. Following the simple village road along Ranwu Lake, you'll reach the end at Laigu Village. With over 70 households, Laigu Village retains the authentic charm of a traditional Tibetan village, blending agricultural and pastoral lifestyles. The houses in the village are relatively scattered, subdivided into smaller villages and settlements such as Shatuna, Lanage, Qu'e, and Ranmu, the farthest of which are two to three kilometers apart, with patches of farmland distributed between them.

Many people notice that Laigu Glacier appears different each winter. While the overall panoramic view may seem unchanged, the glacier is actually in a state of dynamic flux, constantly "accumulating" and "melting." If the accumulation rate exceeds the melting rate, the glacier grows; conversely, if the melting rate surpasses the accumulation rate, the glacier shrinks and may even disappear.

Post by 18Cooper_~Samuel | Feb 28, 2025