Nangqen Travel Guide

Explore the cultural and natural attractions, outdoor adventures, local cuisine, and customs of Nangqen with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to stay, shop, and explore in this hidden gem of Northwest China.


Are you looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination to explore in China? Welcome to Nangqen, a hidden gem of Northwest China that offers breathtaking scenery, outdoor adventures, unique local culture, and mouth-watering cuisine. As you embark on your Nangqen journey, allow us to be your guide and help you discover the best places to visit, things to do, and sights to see in this beautiful region.

Introduction to Nangqen

Nangqen is located in Qinghai, in Northwest China. With a rich cultural and historical heritage, it offers a blend of modern and traditional lifestyles. Known for its breathtaking scenery, Nangqen is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The region’s diverse landscape, which includes snow-capped mountains, rolling hills, and lakes, makes it a perfect destination for hiking, biking, and camping.

List of Places to Visit in Nangqen

Nangqen has a plethora of cultural and natural attractions, outdoor adventures, and local cuisines that you do not want to miss. Here are the must-visit places in Nangqen:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Nangqen Cultural Museum: Discover the rich cultural heritage of Nangqen at the Nangqen Cultural Museum. This museum houses a collection of artifacts, artworks, and manuscripts that showcase the local culture, traditions, and history.
  2. Lhamo Lhatso Holy Lake: Known as the “Oracle Lake”, Lhamo Lhatso is a sacred lake located in the Dêngqên County of Nangqên. It is believed to be the abode of the deity Palden Lhamo, who is revered by Tibetan Buddhists.
  3. Longwu Temple: This temple is an architectural treasure that boasts impressive and intricate style elements. It is one of the key cultural landmarks in the town.

Natural Attractions of Nangqen: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Namu Lake: Namu Lake is a beautiful, high-altitude lake that offers stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains, lush forests, and crystal-clear waters. The surrounding hills offer plenty of opportunities for trekking and hiking.
  2. Yuhu Lake: Located in the east of Nangqen, Yuhu Lake is a hidden gem that offers picturesque beauty, with crystal-clear waters and the surrounding lush green forest. Enjoy boating, bird-watching, and leisurely strolls around the lake.
  3. Ranwu Lake: Ranwu Lake is a large freshwater lake in eastern Tibet Autonomous Region, China. It is surrounded by towering mountains, pristine forests, and vibrant wildflowers. Ranwu Lake is an ideal location for hiking and camping, along with other outdoor activities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Nangqen

Nangqen is a paradise for outdoor adventurers and nature enthusiasts. Here are some of the best hiking and biking trails to discover in Nangqen:

  1. Chola Mountain: Trek the Chola Mountain, a natural wonder that is 5,295 meters above sea level. Located on the southeastern edge of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, it is a popular hiking spot among the local people.
  2. Kangrinboqe Peak: Kangrinboqe Peak is located in Maduo County in the Guoluo Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Qinghai. This peak is popular among trekking enthusiasts for its challenging terrains and spectacular views of the surrounding valley.
  3. Kekexili Nature Reserve: The Kekexili Nature Reserve is a vast protected area in the northern Tibetan Plateau region. It is an ideal location for bike and jeep safaris, along with a visit to the remote Tibetan settlements and wildlife watching.

Best Things to Do in Nangqen: Activities and Tours

Nangqen has a comprehensive list of exciting and engaging things to do, catering to both nature lovers and culture enthusiasts. Here are our top recommendations:

  1. Explore the local wildlife: Nature lovers can explore the vast array of flora and fauna in the region on horseback, from rare Black Neck Cranes to Tibetan Gazelles.
  2. Discover Tibetan culture: Experience the unique Tibetan culture by attending one of the local religious festivals held throughout the year, such as the “Monlam Prayer Festival” and the “Shoton Festival”.
  3. Enjoy the hot springs: Unwind at a luxury hot spring resort, like Heiquan Hot Spring or Tenggeli Hot Spring, located in the Nangqen Mountains.

Week-Long Itinerary for Nangqen

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary for Nangqen:

Day Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive in Nangqen town and explore the local market and nearby attractions.
Day 2 Hike the Kangrinboqe Peak and visit the Longwu Temple.
Day 3 Enjoy a scenic drive to Yuhu Lake and explore the natural beauty of the region.
Day 4 Visit the Namu Lake and enjoy the boating and bird-watching experience.
Day 5 Explore the Kekexili Nature Reserve and take a bike tour to discover the local wildlife.
Day 6 Soak in the hot springs at Heiquan Hot Spring or Tenggeli Hot Spring.
Day 7 Attend a local religious festival before departing Nangqen in the afternoon.

Food and Drink Scene of Nangqen

Nangqen has a unique culinary culture with a blend of Tibetan and Chinese cuisine. Here are our top recommendations of what dishes to try and where to sample them:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Yak Meat: Yak meat is a staple among the residents of Nangqen. Roasted, boiled, or steamed, it is enjoyed in a variety of dishes in Nangqen’s restaurants and homes.
  2. Tsampa: A traditional Tibetan staple food, made from roasted barley flour, that is served in a variety of forms.
  3. Butter Tea: Butter tea is a food and drink staple in Tibet and its surrounding regions, including Nangqen. This tea is a blend of tea leaves, yak butter, salt, and milk.

Local Beverages

  1. Chang: Chang is a popular local beer, brewed from barley, yeast, and water. It is typically served in wooden or bamboo mugs.
  2. Yak Butter Tea: As mentioned earlier, Yak Butter tea is a regional specialty, and is enjoyed with meals throughout the day.

Where to Stay in Nangqen: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Nangqen has a variety of accommodation options for tourists, ranging from luxury hotels to affordable guesthouses. Here are some options to consider:

  1. Yading Camp Site: Yading Camp Site is a popular camping spot in Nangqen, located on the banks of the pristine Yading River. It offers stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains and starry skies at night.
  2. Hostels in Town: There are several hostels in the town of Nangqen that offer comfortable and affordable lodging options, such as Yak Guesthouse and Bedha Hotel.
  3. Resorts in the Mountains: There are several mountain resorts in Nangqen, like Nangqian Dabha Hot Spring Resort, which are perfect for relaxing and unwinding after a long day of outdoor activities.

What to Buy in Nangqen: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Nangqen is famous for its handicrafts, especially its hand-woven carpets, prayer flags, and wood-carved artifacts. These souvenirs make great gifts for family and friends. You can find them at the local markets and shops, including Yila Handicraft Store and the Nangqen Cultural Museum.

Local Culture and Customs of Nangqen

Nangqen’s culture is deeply rooted in Tibetan customs and traditions. The local people are hospitable and friendly, and visitors are expected to respect the traditions and beliefs of the region. Tibetan Buddhism is the dominant religion in Nangqen, and visitors are expected to behave respectfully when visiting local temples and monasteries.

Best Time to Visit Nangqen

The best time to visit Nangqen is from April to November when the weather is mild and pleasant, with flowers blooming, and the scenery is green and vibrant. However, the region is accessible throughout the year, making it ideal for snow-sport enthusiasts and winter enthusiasts as well.

Do’s and Don’ts of Nangqen

Here are some Do’s and Don’ts to keep in mind during your visit to Nangqen:

Do:

  1. Respect the local culture and customs and behave appropriately when visiting temples and monasteries.
  2. Take care of the natural environment, preserve it, and leave no trace behind.
  3. Learn basic Tibetan phrases to communicate with the locals.

Don’t:

  1. Do not disturb the wildlife or litter in natural surroundings.
  2. Do not take photographs in religious shrines without permission.
  3. Do not disrespect the Tibetan national flag or other symbols of culture.

Safety and Health

Safety and health should be a priority during any travelogue. Here are some tips to keep in mind when visiting Nangqen:

Safety in Nangqen

  1. Carry a map, a GPS tracker, and a mobile phone when going on outdoor adventures.
  2. Dress appropriately when hiking, and carry warm clothing as temperatures can drop suddenly.
  3. Do not venture out alone without a trained guide or local companion.

Health in Nangqen

  1. Drink only bottled water or boiled water to avoid waterborne diseases.
  2. In case of medical emergencies, seek assistance from the local health centers or hospital.

Getting to Nangqen: Transportation Options and Logistics

Nangqen is accessible via plane, bus, and car. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Airports Near Nangqen

The nearest airports to Nangqen are:

  1. Xining Caojiabao International Airport
  2. Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport

Bus Stations Near Nangqen

Nangqen has frequent buses plying from nearby cities such as Chengdu, Qinghai, and Xi’an.

Other Options

Traveling by taxi or hiring a car with a driver is also a convenient option for reaching Nangqen.

How to Get Around in Nangqen

Nangqen is a small town, and the best way to explore the region is on foot or by bike. You can also hire a taxi or a car for local transportation.

Where to Go Next from Nangqen: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Nangqen is well-connected to several nearby cities and tourist destinations. Here are some places to consider in your itinerary:

  1. Lhasa: Lhasa is a bustling city located in Tibet Autonomous Region, China. Discover the unique blend of Tibetan and Han Chinese culture and history, the Potala Palace, and other landmarks of the city.
  2. Chengdu: Chengdu is in the Sichuan Province of China and is renowned for its giant pandas, spicy cuisine, and ancient history. Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Wuhou Memorial Temple, and Jinsha Site Museum.

Conclusion

Nangqen is a stunning destination that is rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you venture into the wild outdoors or discover the rich culture of the region, Nangqen has something to offer for everyone. Follow our comprehensive guide, and you will see that Nangqen is truly a hidden gem of Northwest China that is worth exploring.