Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon

Dimensions:
- Length: 504.6km (longer than the Grand Canyon).
- Depth: Average 2,268m; deepest point 6,009m near Namjagbarwa Peak.
Formation: Created by the collision of Indian-Eurasian plates and the Yarlung Zangbo River’s erosion over millions of years.
Key Landmarks:
- Namjagbarwa Peak (7,782m): Sacred "Father of Tibetan Mountains".
- Great Bend: Dramatic U-turn around Namjagbarwa, forming a unique microclimate.

Biodiversity:
- "Gene Pool of Biological Resources": Hosts 60-70% of Tibet’s species, including red pandas, king cobras, and virgin forests.
- Vertical Zones: Ranges from tropical rainforests (valley floor) to permanent glaciers (peaks).
Cultural Heritage:
- Sacred to Tibetan Buddhists; Namjagbarwa is a pilgrimage site.
- Home to Monba and Lhoba ethnic groups, preserving ancient traditions.

Best Time: April–October (avoid monsoon floods).
Tour Routes:
- South Line (Sightseeing Bus): Stops at Daduka Ruins, Thousand-Year Mulberry Tree, Namjagbarwa Viewing Platform, and Water-Touching Platform.
- North Line (Self-Drive): Rugged trails for adventurers.
Activities:
- Trekking: Explore rainforests and waterfalls.
- Photography: Capture sunrises over Namjagbarwa.
- River Rafting (limited permits).

Permits: Tibet Travel Permit required; book through agencies.
Altitude: 500–3,000m in valleys; acclimatize in Lhasa (3,650m) first.
Tickets: ¥150–240 (varies by season).

Threats: Deforestation, climate change (glacier retreat), and tourism impact.
Protection:
- National Nature Reserve (2003) and 5A Scenic Area (2020).
- Waste management and visitor quotas.

Introduction