Located in the northern part of Tibet and 4,500 meters above sea level, Nagqu, once a small residential compound five decades ago, has now grown into a prosperous town with a population of 70,000.
The local Tibetan people often refer to the plateau of northern Tibet as Changtang (or Qangtang), which is mostly located in Nagqu. An old folk song sings: "The mysterious Changtang is so wild and desolate when you are here the first time; it becomes your lovely hometown when you get to know more."
In Nagqu, the vast Changtang grassland commands unique geological features and changing natural landscape. The great force of nature has shaped the gorgeous mountains and rivers of this region. Lake Nam-tso, Lake Tangra Yumco and over 1,000 others are like jadeite scattered on the grassland or gobi desert. There are numerous hot springs and geothermal spots. The region also has rich resources of wildlife and alpine vegetation. There are over 20 animal species under level one or level two national protections. Such rare animals as wild yaks, Tibetan antelope, and Tibetan wild donkeys are being well preserved in the area.
The natural wonders and the special folk customs have formed distinctive tourism treasures. The local people have created colorful religious legends for the mountains, lakes and rivers, which have retained their natural appearance. At the town of Nagqu sits the famous Shodain Monastery with a long history. Every year, the town will host the Nagqu Kyaggen Horse Race that is sure to draw crowds of local people. During the one-week horse racing festival, different kinds of sports activities will be held such as tug-of-war, carrying rocks, archery shooting and yak racing. Song and dance troupes from all parts of Tibet add to the fun.
There are still more places worthy of visiting. Tourists will be impressed by the great grassland, the holy lake of Nam-tso, and the mysterious depopulated area in the northern Tibet. The Tsangdain Monastery at Sog County , the ruins of the Hor King's palace, the Duoduoga Skull Wall in Biru County are all worthy of visiting.
