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Tibetan Plateau: Ultimate Guide to Tibetan Plateau/Qinghai-Tibet Plateau

January,31 2024 BY Master Catherine Jigme 0 COMMENTS

Lying around 5,000 meters above sea level, the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau is the highest plateau on the planet, and one of the most unique locations habitable by man. Formed millions of years ago by the shifting continental plates, this vast Tibetan Plateau is one of the most astounding destinations in the world, and one of the most interesting.

1. What is Tibetan Plateau/Qinghai-Tibet Plateau Known as?

Known globally as the Tibetan Plateau or the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, this vast area of land often referred to as the "Roof of the World" and the "Third Pole" earns these nicknames due to its towering elevation averaging over 4,500 meters (14,800 feet) above sea level.

This vast expanse of high-altitude land, covering approximately 2.5 million square kilometers, boasts stunning natural beauty, unique biodiversity, and a pivotal role in global climate regulation. With frigid winters, pristine lakes, and the majestic Himalayan mountains, it's a region of extreme contrasts, serving as the source of major rivers and holding the world's third-largest store of ice, underscoring its global hydrological importance.

2. Where is the Tibetan Plateau/Qinghai-Tibet Plateau?

The Tibetan Plateau is located at the very western edge of China, ringed by the mighty Himalayas to the west and south, and bounded by arid terrain and desert to the north, with lush verdant plains to the east and southeast.

The Qinghai-Tibet Plateau is bordered by Nepal and India to the west, India and Bhutan to the south, and the Chinese provinces of Xinjiang, Qinghai, Sichuan, and Yunnan to the north and east.

Tibet Location MapTibet Location Map

3. How is the Tibetan Plateau/Qinghai-Tibet Plateau Formed?

Although this occurred somewhat during the Cenozoic Era, the origins can be traced back to the Mesozoic and Paleozoic eras. According to the continental drift theory, the Indian continental plate drifted northward and violently collided with the Eurasian Plate. As the land was forced upwards, the ancient seas drained off to the east and west to expose what became the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.

How is Tibetan plateau formedThe Tibetan Plateau formed due to the collision and convergence of the Indian and Eurasian Plates.

The Indian Tectonic Plate is still moving at the rate of around 4-6cm per year, which means the Himalayas and parts of the western end of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau are still rising at the rate of around 1cm per year, though natural erosion means that it is barely noticeable.

4. The Altitude of the Tibetan Plateau/Qinghai-Tibet Plateau

The Tibetan Plateau, also known as the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, varies in altitude across its vast expanse. Its lower regions in the northeast are situated at approximately 2,500 meters above sea level, while the higher regions in the northwestern area can reach elevations of up to 5,500 meters.

However, within the plateau, there are towering mountain ranges where altitudes soar even higher. The summit of Mount Everest, located within the Himalayas on the southern edge of the plateau, stands as the world's highest point, rising to a staggering 8,848 meters above sea level.

5. The Climate Features of the Tibetan Plateau/Qinghai-Tibet Plateau

The Tibetan Plateau, or Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, experiences a high-altitude climate with four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. However, climate conditions vary based on altitude and location. Winters in the remote northwest, like Mount Kailash, are cold and snowy, while central and eastern cities, such as Shigatse and Lhasa, enjoy sunnier, warmer weather.

The plateau is influenced by Asian monsoons, with the southwest monsoon bringing summer rains and the northeast monsoon causing cold conditions in some areas during winter.

The best times to visit Tibet are spring and autumn when rainfall is lower, offering clear skies and ideal conditions for outdoor sightseeing and enjoying the stunning mountain peaks.

6. The Geography and Landscape Features of the Tibetan Plateau

The Tibetan Plateau is a land of towering mountains, frigid lakes, and meandering rivers. Its diverse landscapes vary significantly from one end to the other, with the plateau descending from the Himalayan foothills in the northwest to the southeast.

This region encompasses desolate, arid areas that can barely support life as we know it, transitioning into lush, green plains teeming with wild grasses and rolling meadows as the Himalayas gradually give way to the lower regions of China. The landscape and geography of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau are unparalleled on our planet.

Tibet The Gailuo GrasslandYou can see the vast grassland with endless snow-capped mountains in Tibetan Plateau.

When visiting Tibet, from the lush eastern region of Nyingchi to the distant western destination of Mount Kailash, you'll experience the breathtaking landscape transformations across the Tibetan Plateau.

Another immersive way to explore the plateau is by taking a Tibet train tour along the Qinghai-Tibet railway, starting in Xining and ending in Lhasa. Along this route, you'll witness diverse scenery through your window, from the uninhabited Gobi desert to the vast grasslands dotted with villages in the Naqu region, north of Lhasa.

7. When did humans first appear in Tibetan Plateau?

It was originally believed that modern humans arrived on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau from the northeast as long as 30,000 years ago. These Neolithic ancestors migrated into the plains of the eastern Tibetan Plateau from northwest China and western Mongolia, but were constantly moving with their herds, so put down no permanent roots.

However, more recent archaeological data discovered that Denisovian hominids existed on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau at altitudes of up to 4,000 meters as long as 250 thousand years ago.

The modern population of the Tibetan Plateau are mostly descended from the Neolithic immigrants from northern China that began putting down roots around 5,000 years ago.

Tibetan people and Potala PalaceWhile visiting Tibet, you can see the locals in traditional Tibetan customs.

8. The Main Cultural Features and the People Living in Tibetan Plateau

The Tibetan Plateau is a land where culture and religion go hand in hand, and Tibetan Buddhism is a he part of everyday life in the region. This rich socially religious culture permeates the entire Qinghai-Tibet Plateau region, and even extends down into parts of southwest China.

Tibetan culture begins in part in the natural environment in which these hardy people live. The rugged landscapes and harsh environment have shaped the Tibetan Plateau culture and its people into one of the most unique cultures in the world.

9. How to Get to Tibetan Plateau/Qinghai-Tibet Plateau?

There are several ways to get to Tibet now, by flight, by train, and by road.

Flying to Tibet is the quickest and most convenient way, with direct flights to Lhasa from cities like Chengdu, Chongqing, Xining, and more. For eastern cities like Beijing or Shanghai, connecting flights may be necessary. Upon arrival, acclimatizing to high altitudes is crucial, so plan for rest on your first day.

Alternatively, taking the Tibet train is a scenic choice, with routes from cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Xining. The train journey varies from 22 hours to 2 nights, showcasing the plateau's landscapes.

Or consider an Tibet overland tour, with five highways providing access, each offering a unique opportunity to savor the Tibetan Plateau's stunning scenery.

Qinghai Tibet Railway ViewThe stunning view of the Qinghai Tibet railway

10. How to Visit the Tibetan Plateau/Qinghai-Tibet Plateau?

To visit Tibet, you must follow a specific process. Firstly, you need to book a pre-arranged Tibet tour through a registered travel agency to obtain the required Tibet Travel Permit. Once booked, the agency will handle your itinerary, visa, and permits, ensuring a worry-free trip.

Tibet Travel PermitThe Sample of Tibet Travel Permit

Your documents will be processed using a copy of your passport, and the agency will arrange your visit to Tibet. Keep in mind that you can only explore the region with a tour guide, who will accompany you throughout the journey, providing transportation and accommodation.

However, if you plan to explore other parts of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, such as Qinghai, Yunnan, or western Sichuan, you can travel without a permit. You can either join a group tour organized by an agency or explore independently.

Conclusion

The Qinghai-Tibet Plateau is one of the most unique locations in the world. Born out of shifting landmasses and pushed up to meet the gods, the Tibetan Plateau has an amazing people with an astounding culture, and this vast region at the roof of the world is the epitome of outstanding adventures.

Visiting the Tibetan Plateau is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Whether you wish to explore central Tibet or the Tibetan-inhabited areas in Qinghai, Sichuan, or Yunnan on the plateau's periphery, you can travel by flight, train, or road.

Just join us, leaders in Tibet tourism for decades, and we'll expertly handle every detail of your trip to this enchanting plateau, revealing the true essence of the world's highest plateau.

Master Catherine Jigme

About the Author - Master Catherine Jigme

With exceptional passion and outstanding leadership, Mrs. Catherine has dedicated herself to Tibet inbound tourism and China tour for 15 years. As one of the handful females who see great potential of Chinese inbound tourism, Catherine has made great contribution to promoting Tibet tourism and enhancing the employment of Tibetans and prosperity of local Tibetan community.

Over the years, she travelled overseas with Tibet Tourism Bureau many times to promote Tibet tourism. Currently, Catherine works as the marketing director of Tibet Vista, an opinion leader behind the whole team of Tibet Vista.

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