The Yarlung Tsangpo River: The World’s Highest River
Yarlung Tsangpo River, located in Tibet, runs through the “Roof of the World” on the Tibetan Plateau. The Yarlung Tsangpo is renowned for its breathtaking beauty and dramatic landscapes. It holds the title of the highest river in the world. It with an impressive flow rate of 135.9 billion cubic meters, making it the third-largest river in China.
The Unique Reverse Flow of Yarlung Tsangpo River
The Yarlung Tsangpo River has conquered more obstacles than any other river in the world. It is known for its fierce, unstoppable current. Whether it encounters valleys, hills, deserts, or rock formations, the river tirelessly breaks through, carving its path with unmatched determination. This indomitable spirit has given rise to a unique natural phenomenon—the river’s reverse flow.
A Beautiful Legend Behind the Yarlung Tsangpo
According to an ancient legend, the area where the Yarlung Tsangpo flows today was once a vast ocean. Forests of pine, hemlock, and palm trees lined its shores, with animals such as antelope and rhinos living in harmony. However, disaster struck when a five-headed poisonous dragon emerged from the sea, wreaking havoc and destroying the land.
Just when hope seemed lost, five celestial maidens descended from the sky. They use their divine powers to subdue the dragon and save the land. When it came time for the maidens to return to the heavens, the animals wept bitterly, begging them to stay. The tears of the animals eventually formed the Yarlung Tsangpo River.
Though this is just a legend, it reflects the river’s profound significance in Tibetan culture and history. The Yarlung Tsangpo has witnessed the rise of the Tibetan Plateau and carved its way through the landscape. It leaves behind traces of its ancient past and a sense of mystery.
Geological Origins of the Yarlung Tsangpo
Scientific studies provide fascinating insights into the formation of the Yarlung Tsangpo River. Millions of years ago, the Pamir Plateau sloped from east to west. It allows the Yarlung Tsangpo to flow through Kashmir and into the plains of the Indus River, and Arabian Sea. Over time, tectonic shifts caused the plateau to tilt, reversing the river’s course.
Research also shows that the Yarlung Tsangpo basin was once separated by the vast Tethys Sea during the Triassic and Jurassic periods, some 190 million years ago. As the Indian Ocean expanded, the southern part of Tibet gradually drifted north, colliding with the northern Tibetan landmass around 40 million years ago. It gives rise to the Tibetan Plateau and creating the river’s current path.
A River Shaped by Tectonic Forces
As the southern Tibetan crust continued to push northward, east-west mountain ranges and river valleys formed under immense pressure. This collision created the enormous rift in which the Yarlung Tsangpo River developed. Initially, the river flowed from east to west, but over millions of years, tectonic forces shaped the landscape. Eventually reversing the river’s flow, giving it its distinctive “reverse flow” nature.
In its lifetime, the Yarlung Tsangpo has experienced three distinct phases: its formation, its period as an inland river, and its final reverse flow that shapes the current landscape.
Formation Period of the Yarlung Tsangpo River
The formation period of the Yarlung Tsangpo River spans from the early Oligocene epoch, around 40 million years ago, to the late Miocene epoch, about 12 million years ago. During this time, the southern and northern Tibetan crusts merged due to ongoing tectonic pressure in a north-south direction. This intense pressure caused the eastern part of the region to rise faster and more significantly than the west. As a result, the Yarlung Tsangpo initially flowed from east to west, and it even merged with the Gar River in the Ali region, eventually joining the Indus River in India.
In this early phase, the Yarlung Tsangpo was actually the upper stream of the Indus River! However, due to the river’s relatively weak erosive power at the time, it did not create dramatic landforms. Sediments such as sand, gravel, and pebbles accumulated along the river, and creatures like snails and mussels inhabited the river, while plants thrived along its banks.
The Inland Flow Period of the Yarlung Tsangpo
From the late Miocene epoch, around 12 million years ago, to the end of the Pliocene epoch, approximately 2 million years ago, the Yarlung Tsangpo River entered what is known as its inland flow period. During this time, the tectonic activity in the Tibetan Plateau intensified, causing uneven and substantial uplift. In the Purang County region, near the intersection of Shigatse and Ali, and around Mount Kailash, a north-south rise began. This uplift was significantly faster than the westward flow of the Yarlung Tsangpo, marking the beginning of the river’s inland flow phase.
To the east of Purang and Mount Kailash, the river’s water gradually began to flow in reverse, heading eastward. At the same time, the western regions, including areas around Shigatse and Rinbung, saw the formation of lakes as the river water became trapped. These lakes extended westward to the Maquan River and eastward to Gyaca, leaving behind sedimentary deposits of sand and mud along with evidence of lake-dwelling organisms in these areas.
The Reverse Flow Period of the Yarlung Tsangpo River
During the reverse flow period of the Yarlung Tsangpo, the continued uplift of the southern Himalayas blocked the warm currents from the Indian Ocean, causing the climate in southern Tibet to become dry and cold. The arrival of three large-scale ice ages further intensified this shift.
As the Himalayas rose, the northern tributaries of the Brahmaputra River, flowing along fault lines near Basika, Rika, and Motuo, began eroding upstream. This erosion extended northwards all the way to the northern side of Namcha Barwa Peak. On one front, the river cut through to the northwestern flowing Yigong Tsangpo and Parlung Tsangpo, causing the latter to reverse its flow over 200 kilometers. This reversal carved out gorges and steep valleys near Tongmai and created powerful rapids and waterfalls in the area known as the Great Bend.
On the other front, the tributary pushed further north into the Linzhi and Milin regions, attacking the source of the westward-flowing Yarlung Tsangpo. This marked the beginning of the modern Yarlung Tsangpo River. At this time, the water levels east of the Great Bend dropped significantly lower than those west of Milin, resulting in the gradual reversal of the river’s flow direction from east to west in areas between Milin and Sangri, unveiling a new chapter in the river’s history—its complete transformation into an eastward-flowing river.
As the river level rapidly lowered, the inland lakes centered around Shigatse and Rinbung began to break apart. The rhythmic uplift of the Tibetan Plateau contributed to the formation of a variety of river terraces, alluvial fans, flood cones, and slopes along the Yarlung Tsangpo, creating a rich landscape of river valleys.
A Unique Geological Phenomenon
From its origins, the Yarlung Tsangpo developed amidst the intense tectonic movements that raised the Tibetan Plateau. Originally flowing westward, it transformed into an inland lake before evolving into a massive 2,000-kilometer-long reverse-flowing river, a rare phenomenon in the world.
This dramatic transformation is not just a testament to the dynamic geological forces of the region, but also highlights the river’s role in shaping the landscape and ecosystems of southern Tibet.
Yarlung Tsangpo: The Cradle of Tibetan Civilization
Just as the Yangtze and Yellow Rivers are the cradles of Han Chinese civilization, the Yarlung Tsangpo River serves as the “cradle” of Tibetan civilization on the world’s highest plateau. Archaeological discoveries along the Yarlung Tsangpo, including ancient human fossils and cultural artifacts, confirm that this majestic river nurtured the early development of the Tibetan people.
The Sacred Yarlung Tsangpo
In ancient Tibetan texts, the Yarlung Tsangpo was called “Yangchab Tsangpo,” meaning “the water flowing from the highest summit.” For the Tibetan people, this river holds a special, sacred place in their hearts.
The word “Yarlung” is said to represent the ancestor of Tibetan chiefs, while “Tsangpo” is derived from “Zanpu,” a title given to the first king of Tibet who unified the region and established the Tubo Kingdom. Today, “Tsangpo” means “great water” or “river” in Tibetan.
Yarlung Tsangpo: The World’s Highest River and Tibet’s Mother River
The Yarlung Tsangpo River, a major tributary of the Brahmaputra River system, flows through the southern part of Tibet, stretching for 2,057 kilometers. As the sixth longest river in China, it crosses the region from west to east and holds the title of the world’s highest river, with most of its riverbed sitting at elevations above 3,000 meters. Known as the “Mother River” of the Tibetan Plateau, the Yarlung Tsangpo is both a geographic marvel and a vital water source for the region.
Source of the Yarlung Tsangpo River
The Yarlung Tsangpo originates from the Jiemayangzong Glacier on the northern slope of the central Himalayas, at an altitude of 5,590 meters. This glacier, located in the Zhongba County of Shigatse, lies within the heart of snow-capped mountains. It marks the beginning of one of the longest and most significant rivers in the region. The upper section of the river, known as Maquan River, flows through Saga County before being renamed Yarlung Tsangpo as it continues its journey eastward. This region features numerous glacial lakes that connect to the river, forming a dynamic network of water sources.
A Journey Through Tibet
The river flows through 23 counties across four major cities: Shigatse, Lhasa, Shannan, and Nyingchi, covering a basin area of 240,500 square kilometers. It ranks as the fifth-largest river basin in China, with an annual runoff of 140 billion cubic meters upon exiting China, making it the third-largest in terms of water volume, after the Yangtze and Pearl rivers.
Distinct Sections of the River
- Upper Section (Source to Zhongba County): This section covers 268 kilometers, with a water surface drop of 1,190 meters.
- Middle Section (Zhongba to Milin): Spanning 1,293 kilometers, the river descends by 1,520 meters, flowing past the famous town of Pai in Milin County.
- Lower Section (Milin to Motuo): The lower course stretches 496 kilometers, with a significant elevation drop of 2,725 meters, before the river exits China at Baxika in Motuo County.
Glacial Source: The Jiemayangzong Glacier
The Jiemayangzong Glacier, where the Yarlung Tsangpo originates, covers 116 square kilometers and is permanently snow-covered. Nestled in the remote areas of Tibet’s Ali and Shigatse regions, it represents a vast frozen reservoir that feeds the river, supporting life and agriculture across the plateau.
The Yarlung Tsangpo not only carves through the world’s highest landscapes but also sustains the people of Tibet, earning its reverence as the “Mother River” of the highlands.
Key Tributaries of the Yarlung Tsangpo: Vital Rivers for Tibet’s Ecology and Agriculture
Lhasa River: The Lifeline of Lhasa
The Lhasa River, the largest tributary of the Yarlung Tsangpo, plays a crucial role in the development of Lhasa city. Originating from the southern slopes of the Nyenchen Tanglha Mountains, the river basin spans about 55,100 square kilometers, with a length of 551 kilometers and a width of 289 kilometers. The river provides an abundant water supply for Lhasa, supporting the city’s water needs and nourishing vast agricultural lands along the Lhasa Valley, essential for local agriculture.
Nianchu River: Tibet’s Agricultural Heartland
The Nianchu River, which flows from the northern slopes of the central Himalayas, joins the Yarlung Tsangpo in Shigatse. Covering a basin area of 11,100 square kilometers, this river sustains one of Tibet’s key agricultural regions. Its stable irrigation supports the cultivation of barley, wheat, and other crops, earning it the title “Tibet’s Grain Basket.” The fertile lands surrounding the Nianchu River make it a vital area for Tibetan agriculture.
Niyang River: Scenic Beauty and Ecological Richness
The Niyang River, which originates from the western side of Mila Mountain, flows through the Nyingchi region and merges with the Yarlung Tsangpo near Bayi District. Known for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque landscapes, the Niyang River provides a stunning natural setting. The confluence of its clear waters with the often sediment-laden Yarlung Tsangpo creates a striking visual contrast, offering a breathtaking view that attracts tourists and nature lovers alike.
Parlung Tsangpo: A Tributary Rich in Hydropower Potential
The Parlung Tsangpo, originating from Ranwu Lake, is another significant tributary of the Yarlung Tsangpo. Spanning about 266 kilometers with a basin area of 28,600 square kilometers, the river is known for its steep gradients and abundant water flow, making it a prime candidate for hydropower development. Its fast-flowing waters and high elevation drops present excellent opportunities for energy generation, with potential hydropower resources that could benefit Tibet’s energy needs.
Water Resources and Hydropower Development on the Yarlung Tsangpo
The Yarlung Tsangpo carries an impressive annual runoff of 1,395 billion cubic meters, making it China’s third-largest river in terms of water volume. Its water primarily comes from glacial melt, atmospheric precipitation, and underground sources. In the midstream areas, rainfall is the dominant contributor, while upstream sections receive significant inputs from melting glaciers.
With a total elevation drop of 5,435 meters, the Yarlung Tsangpo has the steepest average gradient among China’s major rivers. This leads to fast water flow and strong erosive power, particularly in its canyon sections, creating a dramatic and dynamic river system.
The river’s hydropower potential is immense, with an estimated theoretical capacity of 113 million kilowatts, accounting for about one-sixth of China’s total hydropower resources. Several small- to medium-scale hydropower plants have already been built, and larger projects are under planning. These developments are vital for meeting the region’s energy demands and boosting local economic growth.
Seasonal Flow and Sediment Levels
The Yarlung Tsangpo experiences significant seasonal changes in water levels. The rainy season from June to September marks its peak, with rising water levels and increased flow, while the dry season from November to February sees a notable decrease in both. Upstream sections of the river have relatively low sediment content, thanks to glacial meltwater and minimal soil erosion. However, in the midstream and downstream regions, human activities and localized soil erosion have led to slightly increased sediment levels, although overall, the river remains less sediment-laden than many other major rivers.
Diverse Climate and Rich Biodiversity in the Yarlung Tsangpo Basin
The Yarlung Tsangpo basin covers a wide range of climatic zones, from the cold, semi-arid plateau climate in the upper reaches to the warm, tropical monsoon climate in the lower reaches. These diverse climates support an array of ecosystems, ranging from alpine meadows and cold deserts in the upper reaches to temperate forests and tropical rainforests downstream. The basin is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including yaks and Tibetan antelope in the high-altitude regions, and rare species like Asian elephants and Bengal tigers in the lush, tropical areas downstream.
The Yarlung Tsangpo is not only a river of great geographical and ecological importance but also a key resource for Tibet’s future development through hydropower and sustainable management of its water and natural resources.
The Origins of the Tibetan People
An ancient legend from the Yarlung Tsangpo region tells the story of a monkey who mated with a demoness, producing offspring that evolved from half-monkey, half-human creatures into fully developed humans. This tale symbolizes the deep cultural roots of the Tibetan people in the Yarlung Tsangpo region.
Archaeological Discoveries
The most compelling evidence of early human activity comes from archaeological excavations in Dingri, Linzhi, and Motuo. These sites have revealed a rich collection of human fossils and artifacts from the Paleolithic, Neolithic, and Chalcolithic periods, showcasing a long history of human habitation in the Yarlung Tsangpo Valley.
The discoveries include skulls, jawbones, limb bones, and tools such as stone axes, adzes, chisels, and pottery. These artifacts demonstrate that humans were living and thriving in this region as far back as 20,000 to 4,000 years ago.
The Linzhi People: Proof of Mongoloid Ancestry
Scientific analysis of fossils found in Linzhi provides a strong link to the Mongoloid race. For instance, the nasal root index of the Linzhi people measures 36 millimeters, which is close to the Mongoloid index of 35.8 millimeters. This is significantly different from the measurements of other ethnic groups, such as Europeans and Indigenous Americans. Furthermore, the minimum forehead width of Linzhi skulls closely resembles that of the Mongoloid race, reinforcing the conclusion that the Linzhi people were part of the broader Mongoloid group.
These findings highlight the deep historical and cultural significance of the Yarlung Tsangpo River, not only as the cradle of Tibetan civilization but also as a key to understanding the early human migrations and developments on the Tibetan Plateau.
The Ancestry of the Tibetan People: A Fusion of Cultures in the Yarlung Tsangpo River Valley
The ancestors of today’s Tibetan people originally lived in the Yarlung Tsangpo River Valley, but their identity didn’t form from a single tribe. Over thousands of years, indigenous groups from the valley merged with other ethnic groups, including the Qiang people, to shape the Tibetan ethnicity as we know it today.
A Diverse Cultural Region Along the Yarlung Tsangpo River
Currently, the Yarlung Tsangpo River Valley is home to a variety of ethnic groups, including Tibetans, Han Chinese, Hui, Monpa, Lhoba, Naxi, Mongols, Uyghurs, Buyi, Dai, Pumi, and others. In total, 26 ethnic groups live here, along with distinct communities such as the Deng people and Sherpas.
Early Inhabitants and the Myth of “Monkey to Man” Evolution
Historical records suggest that around 5,000 years ago, people living in the Yarlung Tsangpo River Valley passed through a long evolutionary phase known as the “Monkey to Man” process. In this early period, people led a simple life, wearing tree leaves as clothing and surviving on wild fruits. As time passed, they learned how to cultivate crops such as rice, barley, wheat, mung beans, and sesame, while also developing skills in hunting and animal husbandry.
Development of Tools and Weapons
To support their growing agricultural practices and protect themselves from external threats, these early inhabitants developed essential tools and weapons like bows, arrows, slings, armor, and shields. Their advancements in tool-making reflect a society evolving in response to both survival needs and technological progress.
The Formation of Tribes in the Yarlung Tsangpo River Valley
Over time, the population in the region organized into several tribes, eventually forming 12 major groups such as Qingyu, Xiangxiong, Niangruo, Nubu, Niyang, and Wupu. These tribes continued to expand, eventually evolving into 40 distinct tribal groups, including the well-known Zhuomulang Song tribe.
Historical Contributions of the Yarlung Tsangpo Valley
Throughout history, the people of the Yarlung Tsangpo River basin have made significant contributions to the prosperity and unity of Tibet. Following the collapse of the Tibetan Empire in the mid-9th century due to a massive slave uprising, the region fragmented into smaller independent groups.
The Splendor and Abundance of Resources in the Yarlung Tsangpo River Basin
The Yarlung Tsangpo River is a stunningly beautiful waterway, offering unique charm and resources. It generously shares every drop of its water with humanity, nourishing the land and bringing lush greenery to the Tibetan plateau. For countless eons, this river has nurtured the Tibetan people with compassion and grace. When the world is at peace, the river flows crystal clear, showcasing its vibrant beauty. Under the sunlight, the water sparkles, and rainbows dance across its surface, creating a breathtaking spectacle. This enchanting beauty contributes to the richness of the resources found in the Yarlung Tsangpo River.
Key Statistics of the Yarlung Tsangpo River
Stretching 2,057 kilometers within China, the Yarlung Tsangpo ranks as the fifth-longest river in the country. It boasts a watershed area of 240,480 square kilometers, making it the sixth-largest river basin in China. The river’s average elevation is around 4,500 meters, making it the highest river in the world. Within its basin, over one million people reside, with approximately 2.3 million acres of arable land, accounting for nearly half of Tibet’s total population and cultivated land. The region has seen a remarkable development of industrial and mining enterprises.
Abundant Mineral Resources
The mineral resources in the Yarlung Tsangpo River basin are incredibly rich, primarily consisting of non-ferrous and rare metals. Currently, 76 different minerals have been identified in the region, representing 40% of all mineral varieties found in China. The key minerals include iron, manganese, copper, chromium, aluminum, zinc, molybdenum, sulfur, phosphorus, potassium, coal, mercury, oil shale, natural soda, mica, mirabilite, quartz crystal, corundum, graphite, gypsum, barite, ice stone, garnet, diatomite, table salt, uranium, and agate.
Among these resources, uranium stands out as a significant global resource. The copper reserves rank second in the nation, with the Yulong large porphyry copper deposit alone boasting over 6 million tons of reserves, accompanied by molybdenum, cobalt, tungsten, platinum, nickel, gold, silver, and iron. The distribution of gypsum is widespread, with the second-largest reserves in the country. Additionally, boron, phosphate, and barite reserves rank third nationally, while white mica and peat rank fourth, and ceramic clay ranks fifth.
Chromium deposits cover an area of 2,500 square kilometers, holding 40% of the country’s total chromium reserves. The preliminary findings in Robsha alone indicate chromium reserves exceeding 4 million tons, typically associated with precious platinum group elements. Moreover, lithium, known as the “new metal darling,” plays a crucial role as a fuel source for hydrogen bombs, rockets, nuclear submarines, and advanced jet aircraft, with its reserves accounting for 50% of the world’s total lithium resources.
The Yarlung Tsangpo River Basin: Geography, Climate, and Biodiversity
The Yarlung Tsangpo River basin is known for its late emergence from marine inundation, approximately during the mid-Eocene epoch. The northern part of the basin features the ancient Kunlun, Tanggula, and Gangdise–Nyainqentanglha mountain ranges, creating a formidable barrier that shields the region from cold air masses originating from the northwest.
In the south, the majestic Himalayas rise sharply, with peaks exceeding 6,000 meters, including Mount Everest (known as Jo-mo-glang-ma, standing at 8,844.43 meters). The high mountains act as a natural shield, preventing the warm, moist air from the Indian Ocean from crossing, forcing it to flow along the valleys, particularly through the Yarlung Tsangpo River gorge. This geographical setup leads to distinct climatic variations within the basin, with temperatures decreasing and precipitation levels diminishing as one moves upstream, resulting in diverse natural landscapes.
Agricultural Importance of the Yarlung Tsangpo River: Supporting Tibet’s Fertile Lands
The Yarlung Tsangpo River is a vital water source for irrigation, nourishing vast stretches of farmland across Tibet. Its waters sustain local agriculture, playing a crucial role in crop production. Despite its importance for irrigation, the river’s steep gradients and numerous gorges make navigation difficult, limiting shipping activities to only a few calm sections.
“One River, Three Tributaries” Agricultural Hub
The Yarlung Tsangpo River, along with its major tributaries—the Lhasa River, Nianchu River, and Niyang River—forms the “One River, Three Tributaries” region, which is Tibet’s key agricultural zone. This area is also the political, economic, and cultural heart of the Tibet Autonomous Region.
Tibet’s Agricultural Breadbasket
The middle reaches of the Yarlung Tsangpo are known for their favorable agricultural conditions. With abundant sunshine, good irrigation infrastructure, and a frost-free period of 120 to 150 days, this densely populated region is Tibet’s most productive agricultural area. Known as Tibet’s “Grain Basket,” it is the primary source of staple crops like barley and wheat, contributing significantly to the region’s food security and economic stability.
The Journey of the Yarlung Tsangpo River
Starting from its source to Lizhi, the Yarlung Tsangpo River flows at an elevation of approximately 5,590 meters. The Jiemayangzong Glacier serves as a colossal reservoir, annually contributing significant meltwater to the river. This segment of the river flows west to east, merging with the tributary Kubi River near Sangmuzhang, and is referred to as “Maqian River.”
The river valley is broad, with gentle currents that occasionally ripple and flow smoothly, resembling a string of pearls. The river, with its shimmering surface, reflects the beauty of the sky above. This stretch is 268 kilometers long, with a drop of 1,190 meters, resulting in an average gradient of 4.4‰, controlling a watershed area of 26,570 square kilometers. The high altitude and harsh climate result in an average annual temperature that often stays below zero degrees Celsius.
In these severe conditions, only hardy plants like purple needle grass, sagebrush, and gentian thrive on the uneven plateau. From June to August, vibrant green grass and flowers flourish, and the crystal-clear river reflects the sky, creating a picturesque natural scene filled with the sounds of birds and wildlife.
Rich Biodiversity of the Region
According to Tibetan biological surveys, the basin is home to over 60 species of terrestrial vertebrates, many of which are endemic or rare, such as the Himalayan marmot, grey-backed hare, wild yak, Tibetan wild donkey, Tibetan fox, Tibetan antelope, wolf, Tibetan argali, rock sheep, snow leopard, brown bear, lynx, and Tibetan snowcock.
Along the river’s sandy banks, various bird species such as the ruddy shelduck, bar-headed goose, brown-headed gull, and black-necked crane make their homes. The river itself is inhabited by unique cold-water fish species, including the finless fish and the slender-snout fish, contributing to the region’s status as a natural wildlife sanctuary.
The Yarlung Tsangpo River: From Lizhi to Milin
The river stretches 1,293 kilometers from Lizhi to Milin, descending 1,520 meters with an average gradient of 1.2‰, controlling a watershed area of 163,951 square kilometers. As the volume of water increases, the river’s erosive power grows, yet the valley width varies due to geological formations and rock types. In wider sections, numerous river valley plains form, while narrow areas shrink to less than 100 meters.
In the wide valleys, the waters ripple gracefully, while in the narrow sections, they swirl violently. Towering peaks on either side create a stunning display of nature’s majesty. From an aerial perspective, the river resembles a braid, sometimes splitting into multiple streams before merging back together. This region enjoys a relatively favorable climate, classified as highland temperate, and serves as a significant agricultural base for Tibet.
Agricultural Wealth of the Region
With an average annual temperature above zero degrees Celsius and annual precipitation ranging from 200 to 600 millimeters, this area is characterized as a typical semi-arid region with significant evaporation. The main crops include cold-resistant barley and short-growing varieties of wheat, buckwheat, peas, and fava beans.
Economically important crops such as rapeseed, walnuts, hemp, and sugar beets thrive here, alongside a variety of vegetables including spinach, cabbage, green beans, tomatoes, chili peppers, and pumpkins. The region’s long sunshine hours and strong radiation contribute to exceptional vegetable growth, with tomatoes yielding 3,500 kilograms per acre and potatoes yielding 7,500 kilograms per acre. Notably, the heads of Chinese cabbage can weigh over 20 kilograms, while a single radish can reach 15 kilograms.
Fruits like apples, pears, peaches, and grapes flourish, especially the renowned varieties from Milin and Nyingchi, such as “Yellow Banana,” “Red Banana,” “Red Jade,” “Red Star,” and “Guo Guang,” which are known for their exceptional flavor and quality. The “Yellow Banana” apple from the Gama Farm in Milin County and the orchards in Jacha County won first place in the Southwest fruit variety evaluations in 1975 and 1980.
Moreover, the region is adorned with numerous flowers such as rhododendrons, lilacs, roses, orchids, and chrysanthemums, enhancing the natural beauty of the Yarlung Tsangpo River.
The Yarlung Tsangpo River Valley: A Natural Wonderland of Biodiversity and Resources
The Yarlung Tsangpo River winds its way through an intricate network of valleys, where turbulent waters roar and crash through a dramatic landscape of steep cliffs and rugged rocks, creating a breathtaking spectacle. The climate here is warm and humid, with an average annual temperature in the river valley exceeding 10°C and annual precipitation surpassing 1,000 millimeters. This region features one of China’s largest areas of virgin forest, teeming with rich biodiversity.
Flora of the Yarlung Tsangpo River Basin
Preliminary statistics indicate that Tibet is home to around 5,000 species of higher plants, including over 1,400 species of woody plants belonging to more than 300 genera across 100 families, accounting for approximately 30% of total seed plant species. Gymnosperms contribute about 60 species across 7 families and 16 genera. Common tree species in the area include:
- Pine species: Chinese Pine, Alpine Pine, Yunnan Pine, Huashan Pine, Lijiang Spruce, Himalayan Spruce, and more.
- Rare conifer species: Sweetgum, Taxus, and rare endemic species like the Motuo Fir and Longleaf Pine.
- Evergreen shrubs: Rhododendron, honeysuckle, and Qinggang.
- Deciduous trees: Willows, birches, and roses.
- Broadleaf trees: Families such as Lauraceae, Fagaceae, Magnoliaceae, Araliaceae, Camellia, and Anacardiaceae.
- Tropical tree species: Include Dragon’s Blood Tree, Sandalwood, and various fruit-bearing species.
This diverse vegetation supports a unique ecosystem with great scientific research value, as resources like starch, fiber, and aromatic oil plants are abundant. The region boasts over 1,000 medicinal plant species, with valuable medicinal herbs such as Cordyceps, musk, tiger bone, bear bile, and various other rare substances, many known for their anticancer and antihypertensive properties.
Wildlife of the Region
The lush forests provide habitats for various rare and unique animal species. According to Tibetan biological data, some notable mammals include the red panda, takin, clouded leopard, civet, and various deer species. The avifauna is equally rich, featuring famous birds like the blood pheasant, red-billed pheasant, and white-tailed pheasant, along with other rare birds typically found in southern China and Southeast Asia, such as the emerald dove and sunbirds.
The river basin is also home to various wild animals, including wild yaks, white-lipped deer, and wild donkeys, effectively creating a natural zoo of immense biodiversity. Domesticated animals like yaks, sheep, goats, donkeys, horses, and pigs play vital roles in the agricultural practices of the Tibetan pastoralists.
Agriculture and Crop Diversity
The river valley cultivates a variety of crops, including rice, corn, and sesame, alongside fruits like citrus, bananas, and lemons. This tropical and subtropical appearance has earned the region the nickname “Tibetan Jiangnan,” showcasing its agricultural richness.
Hydropower Potential of the Yarlung Tsangpo River
The Yarlung Tsangpo River is one of the most resource-rich rivers in China in terms of water resources and hydropower potential. Geological surveys report an average annual flow of 4,425 cubic meters per second and an annual runoff of 135.9 billion cubic meters, ranking third nationally.
Due to the uplift of the plateau, the Yarlung Tsangpo River basin experiences steep gradients and rapid flows, making it rich in hydropower resources. The natural hydropower potential of the main river alone is estimated at 80 million kilowatts. Including its five major tributaries—Moyong Tsangpo, Niyang River, Lhasa River, Nyang River, and Palong Tsangpo—the total hydropower potential could reach around 100 million kilowatts, accounting for about one-sixth of China’s total hydropower potential and ranking second nationally after the Yangtze River, with the highest hydropower potential per unit area.
Future Hydropower Development
Surveys have identified numerous potential hydropower sites along the Yarlung Tsangpo River from upstream to downstream, including locations like Ganglai, Gurus, Renqingding, Pabu, Pengcuolin, Tomai, Yongda, Sangri-Jiaca, Lang County, Rimeng, and the stretch from Paizhen to Motuo. These sites, characterized by narrow riverbeds and favorable geological conditions, could yield significant hydropower when dams are constructed, with capacity estimates reaching hundreds of thousands of kilowatts.
The Yarlung Tsangpo River valley represents a remarkable intersection of biodiversity, agriculture, and natural resources, showcasing the ecological richness and potential for sustainable development in Tibet. As this region continues to be explored and understood, the balance between conservation and resource utilization will be crucial for maintaining its natural splendor for future generations.
Development of Hydropower and Geothermal Resources in the Yarlung Tsangpo River Basin
The Yarlung Tsangpo River presents a significant opportunity for hydropower generation and geothermal resource utilization. One ambitious proposal involves constructing a 40-kilometer tunnel from Deyang to Xirang at the river’s downstream “U” bend, allowing water to flow directly from Paizhen to Motuo. This project would exploit a remarkable drop of 2,230 meters, enabling the construction of a gigantic hydropower station with a capacity of 40 million kilowatts, potentially becoming the largest hydropower station in China and the world.
Geothermal Resources in the Yarlung Tsangpo Basin
In addition to hydropower, the geothermal resources in the Yarlung Tsangpo River basin are also substantial. According to data from Tibet’s geothermal surveys, there are over 190 geothermal areas between Senggezangbu and the Yarlung Tsangpo River. These areas include a variety of geothermal features such as hot springs, geysers, boiling springs, fumaroles, steaming ground, sulfur vents, boiling mud springs, thermal rivers, and thermal marshes. Some rare phenomena, like hot water explosions and intermittent geysers, can also be found.
Estimates indicate that Tibet’s total geothermal energy potential is around 550,000 kilocalories per second, equivalent to the heat released from burning 2.4 million tons of standard coal annually. In particular, the boiling spring area in the Ganglai Gorge along the middle reaches of the Yarlung Tsangpo River discharges several tons of metallic cesium into the river each year. Cesium is a critical rare metal essential for the development of the electronics industry and space technology, making this geothermal area akin to an inexhaustible treasure trove.
Future Prospects
As China’s economy continues to develop, it is anticipated that the geothermal resources of the Yarlung Tsangpo River basin will be extensively developed and utilized. The combination of hydropower and geothermal energy not only promises to contribute significantly to the energy supply but also supports sustainable development in the region.
The strategic development of hydropower and geothermal resources in the Yarlung Tsangpo River basin could lead to transformative economic growth and energy sustainability for both Tibet and China as a whole. By harnessing these abundant natural resources, we can ensure a brighter, more sustainable future while preserving the ecological integrity of this unique landscape.
