Chasing stars in Tibet

2022-04-29

How long has it been since you looked up at the starry sky? Follow our lens to Tibet and experience the tranquility and poetry under the vast starry sky.

Famously called "The Roof of the World", Tibet is a stargazing paradise. Ngari area on the western Tibetan Plateau and Nagqu on the northern Tibetan Plateau are two of the most excellent astronomical observation points widely recognized by insiders, thanks to high number of clear nights, little light pollution, high atmospheric transparency, and high altitude.

Since 2013, Tibet has launched the “dark sky preservation program”, and implemented China's first pilot of "dark sky preservation areas" in Ngari and Nagqu. In 2018, Ngari and Nagqu’s dark sky preservation areas were officially included in the list of “International Dark Sky Reserves”, becoming China’s first dark sky preservation areas recognized by international organizations. Both places have established dark sky parks that integrate popular science, tourism, and observation.

Besides these two dark sky parks, Tibet also has many other places where you can enjoy the dreamy starry sky.

At the Mount Qomolangma Base Camp, at an altitude of 5,200 meters, you can find the Milky Way paving above the highest peak, which is magnificent and unique. At the "Goddess Peak" of Chomolhari Snow Mountain, the white snow and the bright starry sky complement each other, and the beauty is unparalleled.

In Suosong Village, Nyingchi, the starry sky on top of Namjiagbarwa peak is one of the most romantic scenes. the most beautiful mountain in China". At the holy lake Namtso, with reflections of stars in the lake, you won’t be able to tell reality and dreams apart.

In Tibet, some historic palaces and temples are also good places for stargazing. The starry sky and the ancient buildings mirror each other, as if time stands still, and the moment is eternity.

In fact, chasing stars in Tibet is never just about star observation, it’s inseparable to science, environmental protection, ecological travel, and Tibetan cultural customs. Star chasing trips can offer you unlimited options of joy

For example, at the foot of Namjiagbarwa peak, there was once a New Year's Eve Starry Music Carnival. Bonfires, folk songs, Guozhuang dance, with the sparkling sky above, is there a more unforgettable New Year's Eve ceremony than this?