Location Map of Lhari County in Tibet

Lhari County (拉孜县) is located in the central part of the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR), under the jurisdiction of Shigatse Prefecture. It is situated to the northwest of Lhasa, and it plays a key role in the region’s natural and cultural landscape.

Geographical Location

Lhari County is located in the central-southern part of Tibet. The county is part of Shigatse Prefecture and lies to the northwest of Lhasa, one of Tibet’s most iconic cities. It is positioned along the Yarlung Tsangpo River (also known as the Brahmaputra River), a major river that flows from Tibet into India and Bangladesh.

  • Coordinates: Approximately 29.5°N latitude and 90.5°E longitude.
  • Proximity:
    • To Lhasa: About 200 km (124 miles) to the southeast.
    • To Shigatse: Around 150 km (93 miles) to the northwest.

Terrain and Environment

Landscape

Lhari County is characterized by rugged mountainous terrain, with several high-altitude peaks and valleys. It is located within the Tibetan Plateau region, and the county is situated near the Yarlung Tsangpo River, which flows through deep gorges, creating a dramatic and beautiful landscape.

  • The altitude of Lhari County ranges between 3,500 meters (11,500 feet) to 4,500 meters (14,764 feet) above sea level, making it one of the lower-elevation regions in Tibet.
  • The area is known for its snow-capped mountains, barren plateaus, and rivers.

Climate

  • Cool and Dry: Lhari has a high-altitude, semi-arid climate, with cold winters and mild summers.
  • Temperature Variations: Due to its high elevation, the county experiences wide temperature fluctuations between day and night, with cold winters and cool summers.
  • Precipitation: It receives relatively low rainfall compared to other areas in Tibet, but some regions experience seasonal rains during the summer months.

Accessibility

By Road

Lhari County is well connected by highway to Lhasa and Shigatse. Travelers can access the county from these major Tibetan cities, making it a reachable destination for those exploring the central region of Tibet.

  • Lhasa to Lhari: The road from Lhasa to Lhari is around 200 km and takes about 5-6 hours by car or bus, depending on road conditions.

By Air

  • The nearest major airport is in Lhasa (Lhasa Gonggar Airport), which connects Tibet with other parts of China. After landing in Lhasa, travelers can continue by road to Lhari County.

Local Economy and Culture

Economy

The economy of Lhari County is largely based on agriculture, pastoralism, and handicrafts. Livestock farming, particularly yak herding, plays a significant role in the local economy, as does the cultivation of barley and other high-altitude crops. Some regions also benefit from tourism, as the county is part of the broader cultural and natural landscape of Tibet.

  • Agriculture: Barley is the main crop in the region, and wheat and potatoes are also grown in some areas.
  • Pastoralism: Yak herding is an important source of livelihood for local Tibetans, with the animals providing milk, meat, and wool.

Culture

Lhari County, like many areas in Tibet, is deeply rooted in Tibetan Buddhism, and the region features several Buddhist monasteries and cultural landmarks. The local culture is shaped by Tibetan customs, religious practices, and the daily lives of the Tibetan people, who maintain a traditional way of life in harmony with the natural environment.

  • The Tibetan Buddhist monasteries and sacred sites in the region draw visitors and pilgrims.
  • The county is also home to several traditional Tibetan festivals and rituals, particularly those tied to the Tibetan New Year (Losar) and Buddhist holidays.

Lhari County, located in the central part of Tibet, is an important region both geographically and culturally. It lies close to key towns like Lhasa and Shigatse, offering access to Tibet’s natural beauty, Buddhist traditions, and high-altitude landscapes. The county’s combination of rugged mountains, rich culture, and historical significance makes it a key part of Tibet’s unique charm.