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Ngari is in the far west of Tibet, one of the most remote and sacred regions of the Tibetan Plateau. Known for its rough landscapes, high altitude deserts and sacred mountains, Ngari is a mix of natural beauty and cultural significance. Not as easy to get to as other parts of Tibet, Ngari is a must for adventure seekers, photographers and those interested in Tibetan Buddhism. This guide is for you.
Ngari, also called Ali, is in the westernmost part of Tibet Autonomous Region. It borders Nepal, India and Kashmir, so it’s a melting pot of Tibetan and Indian cultures. The region is known for its extreme landscapes, vast plains, high altitude lakes and snow capped mountains.
Ngari is also home to some of the most sacred and historic Buddhist sites, Mount Kailash, Lake Manasarovar and the Guge Kingdom ruins. The combination of remote and untouched nature and deep spiritual heritage makes Ngari unique.
The best time to visit Ngari is from May to October. This is when the weather is relatively warm, 10°C (50°F) to 25°C (77°F). But it’s still cold at night due to the high altitude.
From November to April the weather is very cold and harsh, temperatures can drop below freezing. Many roads are also impassable due to snow so it’s not recommended to travel during this period unless you are prepared for extreme conditions and have expert guidance.
Getting to Ngari is not easy due to its remoteness. Here are the ways to get there:
By Air: The easiest way to get to Ngari is by flight. Ngari Gunsa Airport is 30 kilometers from the county center and has flights from Lhasa and other major cities in Tibet. But flights are limited and schedule changes according to weather.
By Road: Traveling by road is more adventurous but longer and requires more endurance. The roads to Ngari are rough and some parts are impassable during winter. Most travelers come to Ngari from Lhasa which takes 2-3 days by car. You can travel by private vehicle, bus or jeep. You can also pass through other major Tibetan towns like Shigatse and Tingri. By road you can also enter Tibet from Nepal which is the most accessible road to Ngari region.
Since Ngari is so remote, it’s highly recommended to have a local guide or tour operator to help you with the roads and permits.
Foreigners need Tibet Travel Permits to travel to Ngari. These permits are arranged by a licensed travel agency and you need to show your Tibet permit when you enter Ngari. Besides the Tibet Travel Permit, you may also need Border Pass if you plan to visit areas near the border of Nepal or India.
If you enter Tibet from Nepal, please read the link to know about Tibet group visa.
Please plan your trip in advance and make sure all the paperwork is in order to avoid any delay.
Ngari has limited accommodation but enough for most travelers. In the county center you will find a few guesthouses and small hotels. But they are basic and amenities are limited. It’s recommended to bring your own toiletries, sleeping bags and other essentials for comfort especially when you venture into remote areas.
If you are traveling with a group, your accommodation may be arranged. Some monasteries and local homes also offer homestay, which is more cultural experience.
Altitude Sickness: Ngari is above 4,000 meters (13,123 feet) so take necessary precautions for altitude sickness. Spend a few days in Lhasa before heading to Ngari and drink plenty of water.
Clothing: Pack warm and layered clothing as temperature can fluctuate greatly between day and night. Windproof and waterproof clothing is also necessary as weather can change quickly in the mountains.
Photography: Ngari’s landscape is stunning with deserts, high peaks and sacred lakes. Be respectful when photographing monasteries, temples and local Tibetans and always ask for permission before taking pictures of people.
Respect Local Culture: Ngari is a sacred region and its people follow Tibetan Buddhism. Be respectful of local customs, traditions and religious practices. Dress modestly when visiting sacred sites.
Ngari is a place of beauty, spirituality and adventure. Though it requires careful planning and preparation to get there, those who make the journey will be rewarded with a lifetime experience. Whether you are trekking around Mount Kailash, soaking in the spiritual atmosphere of Lake Manasarovar or exploring the ancient ruins of Guge Kingdom, Ngari will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
Tibet Holiday is a premier Tibet travel agency offering personalized tours to explore the rich culture and stunning landscapes of Tibet. With nearly 20 years of experience, our dedicated team of local experts provides unique insights into Tibetan traditions and spiritual sites. Committed to sustainable travel, we collaborate with local businesses, ensuring an authentic and enriching experience. Whether seeking adventure or cultural exploration, Tibet Holiday designs custom journeys tailored to your interests, making it a trusted choice for unforgettable Tibet experiences.
