Nestled southwest of Shiquanhe, the administrative center of Gar County, Gar Tsangpo, meaning “Camp River” in Tibetan, also known as Gar Qu or Gar Tang Qu, emerges from the southern slopes of the Gangdise Mountains. This significant tributary of the Sengge Tsangpo extends through areas like Kunsar, Gar Xin, Namuga, and Suodo, covering a stretch of 196 kilometers and a basin area of 6,060 square kilometers. Its valleys serve as natural pastures, home to yaks, bison, Tibetan antelopes, sheep, and more.
Sengge Tsangpo: The Mighty “Lion River” A River Nurturing the Landscapes of Gar County
The Sengge Tsangpo, or “Lion River,” flows northwest of Gar County’s hub. Also called Shiquanhe, Sangge Zangbu, or Sengkai Zangbu, it originates near Sengge Kabab on the northern slopes of Mount Kailash, standing tall at an elevation of 5,164 meters. Flowing from south to north before veering west near Pangong, it merges with Gar Tsangpo near Zashigang and continues its journey into Kashmir as the Indus River, eventually reaching the Indian Ocean. The river spans 419 kilometers within the borders (3,180 kilometers in total length), dropping 1,264 meters with an average gradient of 3‰ and covering a basin of 27,450 square kilometers, making it a principal river in the Ngari region.
Beyond a gorge between Ge’gyai County and Shiquanhe Town, the river flows through broad valleys and basins, with the widest point near Shiquanhe reaching over 10 kilometers. Its basin is a natural grassland adorned with endless prairies, majestic snowy mountains, picturesque hills, and a dreamlike natural vista, forming a sanctuary for wildlife. The river is home to species like the Tibetan schizothoracin, Triplophysa stoliczkai, and the plateau zokor.
Exploring the Wonders of Sengge Tsangpo
- Rich Resources: The basin of Sengge Tsangpo is blessed with abundant mineral, geothermal, and solar energy resources awaiting utilization and exploration.
- Eco-Tourism Haven: The largest wetland in the Tibetan Plateau surrounds the river, framed by snow-capped mountains, lakes, and meadows in a kaleidoscope of colors. The wetland’s beauty transforms with the seasons, creating an ethereal landscape that captivates visitors.
- Cultural Heritage Sites: The river basin hosts several historical sites like Jiraka Kama, Dingzhong Zetao pottery ruins, and Zashigang Monastery, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich past.
Langjiu Tsangpo: The Serene “Valley End River” Embracing the Tranquility of a Tibetan Stream
The Langjiu Tsangpo, meaning “Valley End River” in Tibetan, flows southeast of Gar County as a tributary of Sengge Tsangpo, meandering through areas like Gama, Langjiu, and Nagugu. With a length of 75 kilometers and a basin area of 2,300 square kilometers, the river is known for its fish diversity and serves as a natural pasture for yaks and Tibetan sheep, adding to the pastoral beauty of the region.
Discover the serene waters and vast pastures of Gar Tsangpo, Sengge Tsangpo, and Langjiu Tsangpo in Gar County, where nature and culture intertwine, offering a unique experience in the heart of Tibet’s breathtaking landscapes.
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