Nagqu Geography

Nagqu (那曲), located in the central-northern part of Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR), is a vast and rugged plateau area characterized by high altitudes, expansive grasslands, and dramatic geographic features. Known as one of the largest and most remote prefectures in Tibet, Nagqu is a key region in the Tibetan Plateau, marked by its extreme elevation, unique ecosystems, and cultural significance.

1. Location and Coordinates

  • Geographical Coordinates: 31°30′ N latitude, 92°00′ E longitude
  • Altitude: 4,500 to 5,000 meters (14,764 to 16,404 feet) above sea level on average
  • Region: Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR), China

Nagqu is situated in the northern part of the Tibet Autonomous Region, bordered by Qinghai Province to the northeast, and the areas of Lhasa and Shigatse to the south. It is strategically located along the central Tibetan Plateau and serves as a crossroads for various ancient Tibetan trade routes.

2. Topography and Landscape

Nagqu is defined by its expansive grasslands, snow-capped mountains, high-altitude lakes, and river systems. The region’s topography is largely shaped by the Tibetan Plateau’s unique geological features and its proximity to major mountain ranges.

Plateaus and Grasslands

Nagqu is part of the Tibetan Plateau, one of the highest and largest plateaus in the world. The region’s vast grasslands, especially in the northern parts, are known for their unique natural beauty and support for the traditional Tibetan nomadic lifestyle. These grasslands are used for grazing livestock, particularly yaks, sheep, and Tibetan horses.

  • Changtang Plateau: Nagqu is situated on the eastern edge of the Changtang Plateau, a vast plateau known for its rugged terrain and high-altitude environment. The Changtang region is largely uninhabited, except for nomadic herders and wildlife.

  • Nagqu Grassland: The region’s lowlands are characterized by expansive grasslands, which are home to numerous wildlife species and provide grazing grounds for herders. This region is vital for Tibetan pastoral life and is one of the largest contiguous high-altitude grasslands in the world.

Mountains and Mountain Ranges

  • Tanggula Mountains: The Tanggula Mountain range runs through the northern part of Nagqu and acts as a natural boundary between Nagqu and the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Some of the highest peaks in the range rise above 6,000 meters (19,685 feet) and are often covered in snow.

  • Nyainqêntanglha Range: Located to the south of Nagqu, the Nyainqêntanglha Mountain range forms a central part of the geographic landscape of the region. These mountains serve as the watershed for rivers that drain into the Yarlung Tsangpo River and its tributaries.

Rivers and Lakes

Nagqu is home to several significant rivers and lakes, contributing to its rich hydrological system.

  • Brahmaputra (Yarlung Tsangpo) River: The Brahmaputra River, known as Yarlung Tsangpo in Tibet, flows through the southern part of Nagqu, contributing to the region’s water resources. It is one of the major rivers in Asia, flowing from Tibet to India, Bangladesh, and beyond.

  • Tibetan Lakes: The region contains several high-altitude lakes, such as Lake Namtso, one of the largest saltwater lakes in Tibet, located to the south of Nagqu. Namtso Lake is a significant destination for pilgrims and tourists due to its beauty and cultural importance.

  • Other Lakes: Smaller lakes and wetlands dot the plateau landscape, including Lake Reting and Lake Lhamo Latso, both of which hold spiritual and cultural significance to Tibetans.

Desert and Arid Zones

  • Tibetan Desert: The northern part of Nagqu transitions into more arid desert-like landscapes, with stretches of barren land, sand dunes, and salt flats. These regions are sparsely populated, though they play an essential role in the traditional nomadic lifestyle, especially in areas where grazing land and water sources are limited.

3. Climate

Nagqu’s climate is classified as cold semi-arid or alpine, with extreme temperature variations and little annual rainfall. Due to its high altitude and position on the Tibetan Plateau, the climate is harsh and can be challenging for residents and visitors alike.

Winter (November–February)

  • Average Temperature: -10°C to -20°C (14°F to -4°F)
  • Characteristics: Winters are extremely cold, with temperatures often falling well below freezing. Snow is common, especially in higher altitudes, and the region experiences strong winds. The winter months are dry with little precipitation, making the region feel even more remote and desolate.

Spring (March–May)

  • Average Temperature: -5°C to 10°C (23°F to 50°F)
  • Characteristics: Spring in Nagqu is short and cool, with temperatures slowly rising. Snow begins to melt, and the grasslands start to bloom, though the weather can still be unpredictable, with occasional snowfall.

Summer (June–August)

  • Average Temperature: 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F)
  • Characteristics: Summer is the warmest period in Nagqu, though temperatures rarely exceed 20°C (68°F). The region receives its most precipitation during the summer monsoon, with occasional rains that bring relief to the grasslands.

Autumn (September–November)

  • Average Temperature: 0°C to 15°C (32°F to 59°F)
  • Characteristics: Autumn in Nagqu brings cooler temperatures, particularly in the evenings. The region experiences clear skies and dry weather, which is favorable for agriculture and nomadic activities. Grasslands turn golden, and the landscape is particularly beautiful during this season.

4. Ecology and Vegetation

Nagqu’s ecosystem is adapted to its harsh climatic conditions and high-altitude environment. The vegetation here is sparse compared to lower-altitude areas, but it plays an essential role in supporting the region’s biodiversity.

Vegetation Zones

  • Highland Grasslands: The majority of Nagqu is covered by vast, treeless grasslands, supporting hardy plants such as alpine grasses, mosses, and sedges. These grasslands provide grazing grounds for nomadic herders and are vital for the region’s economy.

  • Alpine Tundra: At the higher elevations, particularly in the Tanggula Mountains, vegetation is sparse. The alpine tundra consists mainly of lichens, mosses, and low-lying shrubs, which can withstand the cold temperatures and high winds.

  • Riparian Vegetation: Along the banks of rivers, lakes, and wetlands, vegetation is more abundant, with reed beds, willows, and some forms of grasses and shrubs thriving in the wetter areas.

Wildlife

Nagqu supports a wide range of wildlife species adapted to its high-altitude and cold climate. Many species are migratory, and the region is known for its herds of wild animals.

  • Mammals: Nagqu is home to Tibetan antelopes, wild yaks, Tibetan gazelles, and snow leopards. The high-altitude grasslands also support populations of wild horses and the rare Tibetan wild ass (Kiang).

  • Birds: Nagqu serves as an important stopover for migratory birds. Species such as the black-necked crane, bar-headed goose, and Tibetan eagle can be found in the region, especially around the lakes and wetlands.

  • Reptiles and Insects: Reptiles are rare in Nagqu, but various species of insects, such as locusts and moths, can be found, especially in the summer months when temperatures are higher.

5. Geological Features

Nagqu is located at the heart of the Tibetan Plateau, a region of intense tectonic activity due to the collision of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. This geological activity has led to the formation of the plateau’s mountains, rivers, and lakes.

  • Tectonic Features: The area is highly seismic due to ongoing tectonic movements, which have contributed to the uplift of the plateau and the formation of the mountains in the region, including the Tanggula Mountains.

  • Salt Flats and Deserts: Nagqu’s arid zones feature salt flats and desert landscapes that were once covered by ancient seas. These salt deposits are a result of long-term evaporation and are common in the high-altitude desert areas.

Nagqu is a region defined by its extreme altitude, vast grasslands, and rugged, desolate landscapes. Its geography, shaped by the Tibetan Plateau, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural importance, and ecological richness. As one of the most remote areas in Tibet, Nagqu remains a key area for Tibetan nomadic life, wildlife, and religious traditions. Whether through its towering mountains, sacred lakes, or expansive grasslands, Nagqu presents a rugged yet stunningly beautiful part of the Tibetan Plateau.