Changtang Grassland

Situated among Kunlun Mountains, Tanggula Mountains and Gangdisi Mountains, the Changtang Grassland has occupied the two-thirds of area of Tibet with an area of 29.8 million hectares. Inhabited with various wildlife including the state-protected Tibetan antelopes, Tibetan dzigettais and rare animal Goas, the Changtang Grassland is worth the reputation as a paradise for wild animals.

Changtang means Highland in the North in Tibetan, signifying the endless grassland. Owing to an average altitude of above 5,000 meters, Changtang Grassland is rated as the roof of the roof of the world for the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau has been the Roof of the World.

Changtang Grassland---Wildlife Paradise

As a paradise for many wild animals, the Changtang Grassland includes more than 1000 species of wild life. Among which, Tibetan antelope and Tibetan dzigettai have been the state-protected animals. Tourists can see the wild yaks all around the grassland.

Tents

On the infinite prairie, everywhere are yaks and sheep which play an essential role for herdsmen’s daily life. Tent has been a great landscape on the Changtang Grassland. Apart from the ancient yak tents, there are colorful nylon tents with diverse shapes. Many tents are hung with colorful Wind Horse Flags on the top.

Horse Racing Festival

The most compelling moment is the days of each August 10th -16th when the Horse Racing Festival is held that the entire boisterous grassland is exposed under the blue sky. Of course, horse racing is the main item in the day. There are also sports competition projects including push-and-pull, basketball and football. In addition, there are also local performances such as the singing of “Gesar”. During the day, herders enjoy themselves in the all kinds of competition and performances while in the evening, they get together to dance and sing, centered with the bonfire.

What to taste here

Yogurt made by herdsmen is really worthy tasting when tourists pay a visit to the local family of herdsman. Zanba is the staple food for the people live in the Changtang Grassland. In addition, the Chinese caterpillar fungus can be the most authentic in this area which is a nice souvenir for taking home.

Tips

Most people will have altitude reaction (Acute anaerobic or other diseases) when they step in the highland with an altitude of above 4,000 meters. The common symptoms are as followings: headache, dizziness, being nervous, no appetite, abdominal distension, lassitude and so on. Critically ill will be attached with increased blood pressure and rapid heartbeat or even coma. Treatment: eat more vegetables and fruits; block up the pillow during sleeping; oxygen is provided immediately if the symptom is vivid.