Tibet: A Cultural and Geographic Map

Nestled in the southwestern expanse of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau lies the awe-inspiring Tibet Autonomous Region, often referred to as the “Roof of the World” and “The Third Pole of the Earth.” This remote region, with a population of 3.66 million as of 2021, is renowned for its superlative attributes. Home to Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak, Tibet boasts an average elevation that outstrips any other, making it the highest place on Earth.

• Population (2021): 3.66 million
• Area: 1.2284 million square kilometres
• GDP (2021): 208 billion yuan

Cultural Heritage: The Soul of Tibet

Tibet’s cultural heritage is as captivating as its natural landscapes. As the main home of Tibetans in China and the birthplace of Tibetan culture, the region boasts a rich and magnificent heritage. UNESCO-designated sites like the iconic Potala Palace, the revered Jokhang Temple, the vast Qiangtang plain, and the majestic Tanggula Mountain-Nujiang Source region serve as testament to Tibet’s cultural wealth and historical significance.

Culinary Delights: A Taste of Tibet

Tibetan cuisine is a reflection of the region’s unique culinary culture, characterized by staples like butter, tea, Tsampa (roasted barley flour), beef, and mutton—referred to as the “four treasures” of Tibetan cuisine. Additionally, Tibet is renowned for its highland barley wine and a variety of traditional dishes that delight the palate and offer a glimpse into the rich gastronomic heritage of the region.

In every aspect, Tibet enchants with its natural beauty, cultural richness, and culinary delights, inviting travellers on a journey of discovery and wonder amidst the roof of the world.

Tibet Official Map – check the link for full size

1. Lhasa City: A Cultural Gem on the Tibetan Plateau

• Population (2021): 870,000
• Area: 29,634 square km
• GDP (2021): 74.2 billion yuan

Lhasa, historically known as “Luoze,” is an iconic historical and cultural hub in China, celebrated as an international tourist hotspot. Thanks to its high altitude and abundant sunshine, it’s fondly nicknamed the “Sunshine City.” Lhasa is renowned for its exquisite landscapes, profound history, distinct traditions, and a strong religious essence. The region boasts grand geological formations, picturesque scenic spots, and historical landmarks, all adorned with vibrant ethnic customs. Notable attractions include the awe-inspiring Potala Palace, Norbulingka, Barkhor Street, and the revered Jokhang Temple, among others.

Shigatse City: Where Tradition and Modernity Meet

• Population (2021): 800,000
• Area: 179,902 square kilometers
• GDP (2021): 37 billion yuan

Shigatse, meaning “wishful manor” in Tibetan, served as the former residence of the Panchen Lama. It’s a pivotal prefecture-level city in Tibet, prominently positioned in China’s “Belt and Road” initiative. Shigatse captivates with its stunning natural beauty and wealth of cultural landscapes, including sacred mountains, holy lakes, sprawling grasslands, and renowned temples. Here, you’ll find the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest, the “Polar Tianhe” Brahmaputra River, and iconic sites like Tashilhunpo Temple and Baiju Temple.


Shannan City: Cradle of Tibetan Civilization

• Population (2021): 350,000
• Area: 79,253 square kilometers
• GDP (2021): 23.3 billion yuan

Shannan, often hailed as the “cradle of Tibetan national culture,” stands as one of the earliest birthplaces of Tibetan civilization. It holds numerous “firsts” in history, from the first farmland to the first palace, Buddhist temple, and scriptures. This region is endowed with a pristine environment, abundant resources, and a wealth of scenic spots and historic sites. Among its treasures are the sacred Yamdrok Yumco, one of the three holy lakes on the snowy plateau, the meandering Yalong River, the ancient Yumbulakang, Changzhu Temple, Samye Temple, and much more.


Linzhi City: Nature’s Paradise on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau

• Population (2021): 240,000
• Area: 114,215 square km
• GDP (2021): 20.9 billion yuan

Nyingchi, often called the “Tibet Jiangnan,” is one of the birthplaces of primitive human culture on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and a crucial passage for travellers from Sichuan and Yunnan en route to Tibet. This region is blessed with breathtaking scenery and abundant resources, earning it titles such as the “Biological Gene Bank” and “Kingdom of Animals and Plants.” Nyingchi showcases remarkable sites like the Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon, the world’s largest, Basongcuo Forest Park, Taohua Valley, Xiuba Millennium Ancient Castle Group, and many more.


Qamdo City: The Eastern Tibet Pearl

• Population (2021): 760,000
• Area: 109,817 square kilometres
• GDP (2021): 27.8 billion yuan

Qamdo, named “the place where water meets” in Tibetan, stands at the crossroads of Tibet, Sichuan, Qinghai, and Yunnan. It’s the heart of the “Ancient Tea Horse Road” and is known as the “Pearl of Eastern Tibet.” This birthplace of Kham culture reveals a world of enchanting beauty, encompassing Ranwu Lake, Leiwuqi Red Deer Nature Reserve, Karuo primitive village ruins, and the spiritually significant Qiangbalin Temple.


Nagqu City: The Source of Rivers on the Plateau

• Population (2021): 500,000
• Area: 352,192 square kilometers
• GDP (2021): 18.1 billion yuan

Nagqu, named for the Nagg River that flows through its basin, serves as the vital link connecting northern Tibet to the wider world. This region in the heart of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau is the source of major rivers like the Yangtze and Nujiang, earning it the moniker of the “Source of Rivers” and “Chinese Water Tower.” Nagqu boasts the Tanggula Mountain-Nujiang Source Scenic Area, the pristine Namtso, the Eight Pagodas on the Grassland, and more.


Ngari Region: The Roof of the World

• Population (2021): 120,000
• Area: 337,175 square kilometers
• GDP (2021): 8.5 billion yuan

Ngari, situated on the southwest border of China, stands as the “Roof of the World” in the core of the Qiangtang Plateau. This land is where the Himalayas, Gangdise Mountains, and other ranges converge, earning it the title of the “ancestor of all mountains.” Ngari is the origin of the Brahmaputra River, the Indus River, and the Ganges River, making it the “source of hundreds of rivers.” Among its treasures are the Pangong Tso Forest Park, Manasarovar Tso, Changtang Nature Reserve, and the ancient ruins of the Guge Kingdom.

Tibet Railway Line map

Tibet Flight Route and Airports