Nagchu

Nagchu, named after Nagqu River and also known as Nagchu, Naqu or Nakchu, is a prefecture-level city located in the northern part of Tibet – between Tanggula Mountains and Nyainqentanglha Mountains. It borders Xinjiang and Qinghai Province, and neighbors Chamdo Prefecture to east, Lhasa, Nyingchi, Shigatse to south and Ngari to west. It helds strategic importance in the history. Covering an area of 450,543 square kilometers, Nagqu is the largest prefecture in Tibet. Apart from a small area of farming-pastoral region in east, it is mainly a pasturing area. With many greatest rivers (the Yangtze River, Nujiang River, Lhasa River etc.) originated here, Nagqu has rich water resource which contributes to shaping the beautiful views.

1. How to Plan Nagchu Travel
Nagchu is always an extended destination from Lhasa, and most tourists travel to Nagqu during Horse Racing Fair. After arrive in Lhasa by train or flight on day 1, tourists usually spend two other days in exploring the landmarks of Lhasa, including Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Sera Monastery, Norbulingka etc. On Day 4, drive to Nagqu to admire the local performance and interesting competition. Stay one night in Nagqu and then drive back to Lhasa. You can adjust your itinerary to visit Nagqu when the most exciting competition takes place.

2. High Altitude Sickness Tips
The average altitude of Nagqu is over 4,450 meters, and you need to pay attention to High Altitude Sickness. You can spend several days in Lhasa for acclimatization. It will be helpful to take some precautionary measures, like drinking more hot water, always keeping warm, avoiding strong activities, eating fresh vegetables and fruits etc. Your tour operator will also prepare oxygen supply for emergency use.

3. Wearing and Packages
It is suggested to pack your stuffs in two bags – a bigger backpack and a smaller carryon bag. The backpack is used for your daily use while the carryon bag is for your important documents and valuables. It is necessary to keep warm and protect yourself from the harsh natural power. Remember to dress in layers (both thin and thick jackets). Because of the strong sunlight and ultraviolet ray, it is also important to bring the necessary medicine and sunscreens.

4. Necessary Permits for Visiting Nagqu
Tibet Travel Permit is a must to travel in Tibet, and you can’t board your flight or trains to Tibet without it. It is issued by Tibet Tourism Bureau only and can be applied by travel agencies on behalf of you only. It must be obtained before you getting to Tibet, because you are not permitted to board your flight or train without it. Besides, Aliens’ Travel Permit is necessary to any places out of Lhasa. It is applied after you entering Tibet. Your tour guide will apply it with your Tibet Travel Permit and passport.