Exploring the Thermal Wonders of Gar County
Located in the Abunab Valley within Menxi Township, southeast of Gar County, the Balpo Spring sits just 6 kilometers from Menxi Township. At an elevation of 4,700 meters, this area experiences intense cold during winter months. The boiling spring water quickly cools as it jets into the air, gradually accumulating on the riverbank to form a sparkling ice tower. Under the sunlight, this icy structure gleams with a mesmerizing blue light. Beyond the springs, the valley river stretch is dotted with dozens of boiling springs, hot springs, and small geysers, creating a dazzling array of thermal features. Higher up the valley slopes, icicles hang in cascading rows.
At the entrance of the Abunab Valley, on the riverbed below the left side of the rock wall, stands a calcium travertine cone approximately 120 meters tall. From its base, a column of hot steam water bursts across the riverbed at a 60-degree angle with a continuous roar, aiming for the opposite hillside. The spring’s mouth is less than 5 centimeters in diameter, but the steam column widens to 15 centimeters, reaching more than 20 meters. The cone’s peak originally housed the main spring mouth, which closed over time due to the growth of travertine, leaving two smaller geysers atop the cone—one spraying towards the river and the other towards the riverbank, creating a magnificent sight.
Wenshui Lake Hot Spring: A Sacred Site in Tibet’s Wilderness
Situated in the eastern uninhabited regions of Gar County, Wenshui Lake Hot Spring ranks as the third major pilgrimage destination in western Tibet. The monasteries here house numerous exquisitely crafted Buddha statues, Thangkas, and murals. It is believed that Tibetan Buddhist monks have achieved enlightenment here, drawing pilgrims who seek to cleanse their sins and impurities.
Travel Tips for Adventurers
- Getting There: Visitors can join a tour group, rent a jeep, or catch a ride 9 kilometers south of Menxi Town (65 kilometers west of Chaduogangri).
- Accommodation: Pilgrims heading into the mountains can find lodging in the monasteries for about 20 RMB per person. Those circling the lake can also stay at surrounding monasteries.
Discover the thermal marvels of Gar County, where the natural splendor of Tibet unfolds in the form of steamy geysers and sacred hot springs, inviting adventurers and pilgrims alike to witness the beauty and spiritual allure of this remote landscape.
