Zhari Namco Lake – A Hidden High-Altitude Gem of Tibet

This is a nationally protected wetland area surrounded by lush grasslands, serving as a key habitat for Tibetan antelopes, wild asses, and other wildlife. To preserve the ecosystem, most tourist facilities and residential structures around Zhari Namco have been abandoned, with only a few nomadic Tibetans grazing livestock nearby. As a saline lake, Zhari Namco’s expansive surface reflects a mesmerizing gradient from deep sapphire to icy blue depending on the angle of sunlight—creating the illusion of standing by the sea. Be sure to bring adequate windproof and warm clothing, especially a thermal hat, as the lakeside winds are strong and may trigger headaches or altitude sickness.

Zhari Namco is located in Cuoqin County in the southeastern part of Ngari Prefecture, Tibet. Situated at the transitional zone between the Gangdise Mountains and the vast Qiangtang Grassland, this area stands at an average elevation of over 4,700 meters, making it one of the highest counties in China. In Tibetan, “Co” means “lake” and “Qin” means “great,” so “Cuoqin” translates as “Great Lake.” The county is named after its proximity to the grand saline lake, Zhari Namco, which lies to its east. Cuoqin is an ancient and mysterious land, rich in unspoiled natural beauty, the sweeping wilderness of Qiangtang, and the raw spirit of the Qiangtang Nature Reserve—making it a dream destination for adventurers and nature lovers.

Zhari Namco, also known as Tare Co, is the third-largest lake in the Tibet Autonomous Region, located at an elevation of 4,613 meters. It is a tectonic fault depression lake stretching 53.5 km east to west and 26 km north to south, with a surface area of 1,023 square kilometers. The lake is primarily fed by glacial meltwater, with major inflows from the Cuoqin Zangbo and Dalong Zangbo rivers. A long-isolated inland saltwater lake, Zhari Namco features highly mineralized, crystal-clear blue waters that shimmer like a giant sapphire embedded in the Qiangtang Plateau. It is a key highlight on the popular northern Ali route known as “One Lake After Another.” Ancient lake shorelines are clearly visible, with the highest about 50 meters above the current water level, marking historical fluctuations in lake size. The lakeside area is a fertile grazing zone and a nationally protected wetland, famed for its production of rare Changthangi cashmere goats. The ultra-soft, warm wool from these goats is prized for premium textiles loved by consumers worldwide.

“The skies are vast, the plains boundless, and herds appear as the grass sways in the wind.” Zhari Namco’s majestic landscape is painted with grasslands, streams, lakes, and grazing yaks and sheep. The lake and its surrounding marshlands serve as vital feeding and breeding grounds for waterfowl and as important habitats for rare and endangered species such as the Tibetan antelope and wild ass. On the open plains along the lakeshore, galloping wildlife adds vitality and life to this peaceful expanse of the northern Tibetan plateau. This is the great highland lake — Zhari Namco.

Contact Now +44 7785 905065 [email protected]