Adventure ToursThere is an area far inside the Tibetan Plateau called Tarchan. It is far from urban bustle and surrounded by wonderful natural views. Despite its remoteness, the scarce natural view and abundant cultural heritage here attract many pilgrims and tourists every year. Over time, it has become one of the finest spots in Tibetan tourism.
I. Religious Holy Places
Located at the foot of Mount Gangrinpochin, Tarchan is the starting point and terminus of the Ali circumambulation trail. At a height of 6,714 meters, Gangrinpochin, referred to as “the mountain of gods” and “the treasure of the snow mountain” by Tibetans, is capped in white snow year-round. Resembling the shape of an eight-petaled lotus, the mountain exudes gravity and a kingly atmosphere. Gangrinpochin is said to be the navel of the world in Tibetan Buddhism and other religions. It is said that when the Buddha Shakyamuni was alive on the earth, gods from all directions gathered here.
Each year, hundreds of devotees, clad in traditional garments and lugging their packs, begin their journey from Tarchan to go around the mountain. They perform kowtows in the form of extended prostrations, crawling step by step, praying to wash away their sins and acquire blessings of heaven through this religious act. Since it is the origin of this pilgrimage, Tarchan holds the hopes and trust of the believers, hence holding a deep and special meaning in the spiritual world.
II. Natural scenery
While Mount Gangrinpochin cannot be seen from Tarchan, even its spectacular beauty is still available in Namuani Peak, which is the Himalayas’ fifth-holiest peak. This 7,694-meter altitude Namuani Peak in Tibetan is abbreviated as the “Mountain of Holy Mother” or the “Goddess Peak.” As geology suggests, it forms a Precambrian metamorphic rock complex. The snow at the summit of this mountain does not melt, which is a great sight. In addition, it is covered with many glaciers.
Every morning, the rising sun wraps the ridges covered with snow in a golden color. Around sunset, the crests of the mountain glint with scintillating orange-red color. This is a stark contrast to the blue sky, puffy white clouds, and greenery down below, and it is such beautiful. All these scenes form a harmonious beauty. This mountain stands approximately 200 square kilometers and possesses six ridges. There are tens of summits over 6,000 meters elevation on the ridges. And there is a uniform fan-like arrangement of the west ridges that are fairly gently sloped.
III. Surrounding attractions
Around Tarchan, there are numerous places that are truly worth visiting. Palankhang Monastery is a well-known Tibetan Buddhist monastery deep in the Himalayas. Buddha statues enshrined in the temple are solemn and pious, with some invaluable Buddhist reliquaries. Meanwhile, the stunning and detailed murals make the architecture beautiful, infusing an aesthetic ambiance of an unusual Tibetan religiosity around. Then there is the Lopzha Castle, constructed from colossal stones. Historically, it was a great cultural and political hub in Tarchan. To date, even from what remains of the castle, it is possible to sense its erstwhile grandeur.
Besides that, Mapang Yongcuo, also famously known as the “holy lake,” is situated in the surrounding area. According to legend, it was transformed from the princess Mapang Yong. The lake is extremely transparent and blue in hue. When the sun shines down on it, the water sparkles like a precious gem. And the scenery is beautiful when contrasted with the surrounding snow-capped mountains.
IV. History and Culture
Before the 1990s, Tarchan was a mere village with a very small population of about 20 families. People from the village lived in adobe dwellings, and their lives were plain and simple. Later, however, as more and more domestic and foreign tourists started to visit, the village came alive and was bustling. In the year 2002, the township government relocated its location to Tarchan. All this provided huge momentum to the growth and construction of the town. Later, restaurants along with hotels started emerging one after another.
Today, Tarchan has been successful in maintaining the innocence and beauty characteristic of ancient Tibetan villages. In doing so, it has seamlessly integrated modern tourist amenities. Each street, including every house in Tarchan, is a silent witness and narrator that communicates a lot about the history of the village and what it is like today.
Conclusion
Tarchan interweaves gracefully natural beauty with rich cultural heritage. Here, the sacred lakes and mountains are a reflection of nature’s grandeur, religious pilgrimages are a testament to the strength of devotion, and traces of history narrate tales of yesterday. Whether on a pilgrimage or not, Tarchan’s quirky charm will leave you spellbound, always eager to return.
Ready to explore this enchanting area? Let us guide you! With extensive experience in traveling to Tibet, our professional guides and meticulously designed itineraries will be able to meet all your needs. Our convenient service organizes transport and lodging, leaving you free to just appreciate Tarchan’s and Tibet’s splendor. Contact us and start your adventure now!
