Discover the Sacred Sites of Mount Jomolhari and Dzongri Tso
Mount Jomolhari (sprol-mo-lha-ri), also known as the “Goddess Peak,” is a renowned sacred mountain in Tibet. Located northeast of Yadong County (gro-mo-rdzong), Tibet, it sits on the eastern ridge of Dzongri Tso, extending from north to south. Jomolhari rises to an impressive elevation of 7,314 meters (24,016 feet), making it one of the Five Goddess Peaks of the Himalayas.
Ancient Tibetan Mythology
In ancient Tibetan mythology, Mount Jomolhari and Dzongri Tso are revered as the “sacred mountain and holy lake.” The peak towers prominently due to the proximity of Dzongri Tso. Composed of Paleozoic strata and Himalayan granite, the mountain features steep slopes and is perpetually snow-covered, often shrouded in clouds and mist. Due to its challenging climate and rugged terrain, it remains a virgin peak to this day.
Dzongri Tso: The Holy Lake
At the foot of Mount Jomolhari lies Dzongri Tso (stod-chen-mtsho), meaning “Lake of the Great Gap” in Tibetan, also known as “Duqing Tso” or “Doqin Tso.” This saline lake sits at an altitude of 4,471 meters (14,666 feet) and spans an area of 60 square kilometers. It is known for its salmon population.
Unique Wildlife and Ecosystem
The Salmon of Dzongri Tso
Salmon, classified as a second-level protected animal in Tibet, are adorned with colorful spots, earning them the nickname “spotted fish.” They are relatively small, averaging less than 20 centimeters in length and weighing between 0.1 to 0.25 kilograms, with some reaching up to 0.75 kilograms. Feeding on aquatic insects and crustaceans, salmon have a plump body with rich fat content, tender flesh, and delicious taste. The lake shore provides excellent grazing grounds, with clear, blue waters under the sunlight creating a stunningly beautiful scene.
Special Mountain Produce: Jomolhari Mountain Chicken
The Jomolhari Mountain Chicken is known for its large size, agile movements, and ability to fly and run swiftly. Weighing between 1.5 to 2.5 kilograms, this bird feeds on valuable medicinal herbs such as Cordyceps, Fritillaria, and Panax notoginseng. Its meat is delicate, crispy, and tender, with medicinal properties that surpass even those of Cordyceps and Fritillaria.
Travel Tips
Route to Mount Jomolhari Sacred Mountain
To explore Mount Jomolhari and Dzongri Tso, drive approximately 100 kilometers north from Yadong County. The journey passes through Upper Yadong, Pari Town, and Duina, taking about 2 hours. The route offers picturesque scenery along the way.
Exploring Mount Jomolhari and Dzongri Tso not only showcases the natural beauty and ecological diversity of Tibet but also unveils the cultural and mythological significance attributed to these sacred sites.
