Nestled in the mountainous terrain of Medog County, an area rich in natural beauty, lies an astonishing array of waterfalls. Each waterfall, like a pristine white Khata (a traditional Tibetan scarf), cascades directly from the mountaintops into the valleys below. Some waterfalls, delicate as wisps of silk, gently drift down the rock faces, their droplets shattered by the rocks into a mist that hovers mid-mountain. Others, with their grand flow and pleasing roar, flow year-round, offering spectacular views.
Among these natural marvels, beyond the renowned “Tsangpo Canyon Wonder,” lie waterfalls of remarkable heights and unique beauty: the Khanmi Waterfall reaching four hundred meters, the “Tiger’s Mouth” Waterfall that hangs from sheer cliffs, the Ddong Waterfall with its cloud-like mist, the Beibeng Waterfall enveloped in fog, and the Lhagye Waterfall, dancing like silver ribbons… From platforms just ten meters away, one can feel the splash of the waterfalls, experiencing the shifting views and moods brought by the changing seasons and perspectives.
The Grand Canyon Waterfalls
The waterfall cluster within the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon in Medog County, discovered by the Chinese Academy of Sciences’ expedition team in 1998, features the Rongzha Waterfall, the Qiugudu Long Waterfall, and the Tsangpo Badong Waterfall.
- Rongzha Waterfall: Located at 29°51′N, 95°95′E, at an elevation of 1680 meters. The waterfall spans seven tiers, with the largest cascade measuring 30 meters in height and 50 meters in width. Within a 200-meter distance, it creates a drop of over 100 meters. Rainbows often appear above the waterfall, adding to its enchanting scenery.
- Qiugudu Long Waterfall: Situated 14.6 kilometers from the top point on the main riverbed, at 29°48′N, 95°08′E, and an elevation of 1890 meters. The main waterfall has a maximum relative height of 15 meters and is 40 meters wide. Along 600 meters of riverbed above and below the main waterfall, there are three smaller waterfalls 2 to 4 meters high and five cascades. A riverbank waterfall, 1 meter wide and 50 meters long, adorns the southern cliff of the main waterfall, hanging like a flowing ribbon, creating a beautiful scene.
- Tsangpo Badong Waterfall: Actually comprises two major waterfalls located 20 kilometers from the top point under the Ximila Mountain, at 29°46′N, 21°40′E, and an elevation of 2140 meters. These waterfalls, 600 meters apart, stand at heights of 35 meters (width 35 meters) and 33 meters, respectively. They are the largest riverbed waterfalls in the canyon, adding infinite charm to the gorge.
The Enchanting Waterfalls of Medog County: Beibeng, “Tiger’s Mouth,” and Khanmi
Medog County, a treasure trove of natural beauty in Tibet, is home to some of the most captivating waterfalls, each telling a unique story of nature’s power and grace. Among these, the Beibeng Waterfall, “Tiger’s Mouth” Waterfall, and Khanmi Waterfall stand out for their breathtaking beauty and the mystical atmospheres they create.
Beibeng Waterfall: The Dance of Seasons
Located in Beibeng Township, to the east of Medog County’s seat, the Beibeng Waterfall transforms with the seasons. In winter, its gentle flow and delicate dance through the air create a serene and enchanting scene. Come summer, the waterfall’s volume increases, unleashing a powerful roar reminiscent of a dragon emerging from its lair, leaving onlookers in awe. Occasionally, the waterfall’s spray rises hundreds of meters, enveloping the area in a misty rain, creating a picturesque scene akin to a “hanging silk ribbon from distant peaks.”
“Tiger’s Mouth” Waterfall: Nature’s Raw Power
The “Tiger’s Mouth” Waterfall, situated between Hanmi and Maniwong in a place aptly named “Tiger’s Mouth,” showcases nature’s raw power. Water plunges from the heights like a galaxy inverting, abruptly cut by jagged rocks mid-fall, sending a spray that resembles millions of pearls scattering in the air. This spectacle culminates in a thunderous roar as the water crashes into an abyss, creating a mesmerizing scene, especially at sunset when rainbows circle the waterfall amidst the changing hues of the clouds and mountain peaks.
Khanmi Waterfall: A Layered Wonder
The Khanmi Waterfall, in the Hanmi area of Beibeng Township, presents a layered marvel, with a total drop of over 400 meters. Starting from the mountain summit and cascading into a deep valley, the waterfall creates a misty spectacle. The top layer rushes down from snow-capped peaks, followed by a wider, more forceful flow amidst greenery, and finally, the lower layer twists onto a large rock before joining the Duoxiong La River, forming a deep pool. The significant height difference catches the sunlight, casting vibrant rainbows that adorn the valley in a spectrum of colors.
These waterfalls of Medog County not only highlight the extraordinary beauty of Tibet’s landscape but also serve as a reminder of the enduring and dynamic nature of the earth. Each waterfall, with its unique characteristics and seasonal transformations, offers visitors a glimpse into the soul of Medog, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and seekers of tranquility alike.
