Folktale of Lhari County in Nagqu

The Folktale of Lhari County (嘉黎县) is a cherished part of Tibet’s oral tradition, passed down through generations in Lhari County (嘉黎县), located in Nagqu City (那曲市), Tibet. In 2011, it was recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage under the Folk Literature category. The project was filed by the Cultural and Tourism Bureau of Lhari County, with the heritage number I-110.

Key Themes and Legendary Stories

The folktales primarily consist of mythical legends and heroic epics that cover a range of themes such as nature worship, historical memories, and local traditions. The stories celebrate the courage, wisdom, and adventures of legendary heroes and are intricately tied to the natural geography of the region.

Formation of Sacred Lakes and Mountains

One of the most beloved myths is that of a sacred fish from Taihu Lake (太湖). The fish, unsatisfied with the confines of its watery domain, sought to speak with Buddha about its grievances. As the fish swam westward, it came upon Lhari County, where it saw a bright, glowing light that it mistook for a heavenly realm. In a moment of excitement, it laughed so loudly that it forgot its aquatic nature. The water it carried in its mouth spilled out, forming three sacred lakes: Zena Lake (泽那湖), Songshi Lake (松石湖), and Zegal Lake (泽嘎尔湖), with the fish’s body transforming into a mountain. The story reflects the harmony between nature and mythology in Tibetan culture.

Another version of the story tells of a magical fish in Zegal Lake (泽嘎尔湖), which would leap from the water to gaze at a young girl grazing cattle on the western pastures of Lhari County. One day, as the fish approached, the girl transformed into a giant sword, blocking the fish’s path. Regretting its actions, the fish shed two tears, which created a mountain in the region that later grew full of sacred pine trees.

The Tale of Migration to Zhongyi Township (忠义乡)

The origins of Zhongyi Township (忠义乡), also known as Niwu (尼屋), are tied to the migration of farmers and herders seeking refuge from oppressive taxes. After years of travel, they arrived in this tranquil, mountainous area, which was described as a “paradise” due to its mild climate and isolated location, with only one route in and out. Today, Zhongyi Township remains a culturally significant site, where the customs of the Linzhi Region (林芝地区) are still preserved.

The Legendary King Gesar (格萨尔王)

One of the most important figures in Tibetan mythology is King Gesar (格萨尔王), whose legendary battles against evil forces have inspired countless stories. Several key locations in Lhari County are tied to the King Gesar legends:

Gesar’s Archery Site (格萨尔王射箭处)

According to the legend, when King Gesar was leading his army through Lhari County on his quest to conquer evil lands, they encountered a mountain at night. As they approached, the sounds of war drums and banners waving in the wind filled the air. At the front of the opposing forces was a demon king riding a warhorse. In response, King Gesar drew his bow and fired an arrow that struck the demon king in the throat. Upon further investigation, the army discovered that the mountain they had encountered was not an army but a rock formation that had been eroded by the wind and snow, with a round hole in the rock resembling the entry of an arrow.

Gesar’s Horse Training Ground (格萨尔王战马场)

The second key location tied to King Gesar is in Choduo Township (措多乡) in Lhari County. Here, King Gesar established a military camp and used the area to train his horses. The site became an essential base for the supply of warhorses to his army.

Cultural and Historical Significance

The Folktale of Lhari County is more than just a collection of stories; it represents the Tibetan people’s deep connection to nature and their rich spiritual heritage. These stories not only explain the origins of natural landmarks but also encapsulate the values, struggles, and beliefs of the local population. Through the legends of King Gesar and the sacred fish, the folktales provide a living history of the region and its people.

Preservation and Recognition

In 2019, the Cultural and Tourism Bureau of Lhari County (嘉黎县文化和旅游局) was officially recognized as the protection unit for the Folktale of Lhari County. In 2023, the project passed the national evaluation for protection under the National Intangible Cultural Heritage Program.

This recognition ensures that the folklore of Lhari County will continue to be preserved and passed down to future generations, maintaining the region’s cultural heritage and the traditional storytelling practices that have defined Tibetan culture for centuries.