Zanda Earth Forest
The Zanda earth forest is a landscape of eroded lake sediments shaped into towers and gullies over millions of years, stretching for tens of kilometres and turning gold-red in slanting light. It is Ngari's most recognisable natural scene.
Overview
Quick facts about Zanda Earth Forest
The Zanda earth forest is a landscape of eroded lake sediments shaped into towers and gullies over millions of years, stretching for tens of kilometres and turning gold-red in slanting light. It is Ngari's most recognisable natural scene.
| Type | Geological Formation |
|---|---|
| Altitude | 3,800 m (12,467 ft) |
| Visit length | About 2 hours |
| Opening hours | Daylight hours; check seasonal access |
| Good to know | Do not climb the clay towers; they collapse easily. |
How to visit
Practical advice from our Lhasa team.
- Walk slowly. Steep stairs at altitude are harder — come on your second or third day, not the day you arrive.
- Taxi drop-off: Designated parking area at the site entrance
- Bus: Access is by tour vehicle or chartered car
Hotels near Zanda Earth Forest
Sorted by walking or driving distance when we have it; otherwise hotels we use in the same city.
Best time to visit
Average daily high and low in °C, and monthly rain in mm. Winter is cold and dry, with fewer visitors and lower hotel prices.
Nearby
Questions
Visiting Ngari?
Tell us your dates. A Lhasa specialist replies within one working day with a day-by-day plan and a price.