Laigu Glaciers in Chamdo
Lhegu Glacier is a group of glaciers located in Chamdo Prefecture, Tibet. It is named “Lhegu” because it is situated near a village-- Lhegu Village. In Tibetan language, “Lhegu” means “a hidden village of idyllic beauty”. Lhegu Village is located at the belly of Bosura Mountain southeast of Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, which is also the best place for visitors to appreciate the breathtaking glacier landscape.
Chinese Name: 来古冰川
English Name: Lhegu Glacier in Baxoi County, Qamdo
The Laigu Glaciers, located in the Ranwu Town (然乌镇), Basu County (八宿县), Chamdo (昌都) Prefecture, Tibet, are a group of glaciers that stretch from the picturesque Ranwu Lake (然乌湖) to the surrounding mountains. This region is home to numerous pristine Tibetan villages, such as Meixi (美西), Yalong (亚隆), Ruojiao (若骄), Dongga (东嘎), Xiongjia (雄加), and Niuma (牛马). Among these glaciers, Yalong Glacier (亚隆冰川) stands out due to its grandeur. Yalong Glacier stretches for 12 kilometers, starting from the peak of Gangri Gabu Mountain (岗日嘎布山) at an elevation of 6,606 meters and extending down to the Gangri Gabu Lake (岗日嘎布湖) at about 4,000 meters.
The climate here, located in a region where the Indian Ocean monsoon brings cool air to the Tibetan Plateau, is ideal for glacier development. The abundant precipitation supports the growth of marine glaciers in the area.
Location and Accessibility
Geographical Location:
Laigu Glaciers are situated about 12 kilometers south of Ranwu Town (然乌镇), Basu County (八宿县), in the Chamdo (昌都) Prefecture of Tibet.
Transportation:
The glaciers are accessible via the 318 National Highway (318国道) and the Chalang Road (察然公路). You can travel from Chengdu (成都), Lhasa (拉萨), Chamdo (昌都), and Nyingchi (林芝) to Ranwu Town (然乌镇), and then hire a car to reach Laigu Village (来古村), the closest settlement to the glaciers.
Natural Features
Laigu Glacier is a fascinating display of nature, with its imposing glaciers and numerous ice lakes formed at the glacier’s terminus. The area around Laigu Village (来古村) is home to several glaciers, such as Meixi Glacier (美西冰川), Yalong Glacier (亚隆冰川), Ruojiao Glacier (若骄冰川), Dongga Glacier (东嘎冰川), Xiongjia Glacier (雄加冰川), and Niuma Glacier (牛马冰川). Each of these glaciers is surrounded by unique ice lakes that reflect various colors, due to differences in the geological and soil compositions of the glaciers.
The most stunning of them all is Yalong Glacier (亚隆冰川), which stretches 12 kilometers from the 6,000-meter high Gangri Gabu Mountain (岗日嘎布山) to the 4,000-meter high Laigu Village (来古村). The contrast of black and white in the glacier adds to its visual splendor, offering one of the most beautiful views in the world.
Geology and Climate
The Laigu Glacier region was shaped during the Quaternary glaciation period, when the continental ice sheets of Europe, Asia, and North America expanded to cover vast areas, leaving behind abundant glacial remnants across the landscape. The region enjoys a maritime climate, which helps in the development of its glaciers.
Ice Lakes and Glaciers
The glaciers surrounding Laigu Village (来古村) form numerous ice lakes. These lakes reflect different colors due to the varying geological and soil compositions in the region. Some of the ice lakes even have floating icebergs of various sizes, creating a surreal and Antarctic-like atmosphere.
During the winter months (January and February), the ice lakes freeze solid, allowing visitors to walk directly on the lake surface. However, it is important to avoid walking on these lakes during other seasons as they can be dangerous.
Cultural Features
Laigu Village (来古村), located near the glaciers, is a traditional Tibetan settlement. With a population of over 70 households, the village still retains its agricultural and pastoral way of life. The village is split into smaller settlements, such as Shatu Na (沙土那), Lana Ge (拉那格), Qu E (曲娥), and Ran Mu (然母), each separated by a few kilometers. The village offers an authentic Tibetan experience, where visitors can interact with locals, try traditional Tibetan food like butter tea (酥油茶) and barley cakes (青稞糍粑), and experience the simplicity of rural Tibetan life.
Best Time to Visit
Best Season for Photography:
The best time to visit for photography is during April, when the surrounding landscapes are most vibrant, and the ice lakes are solid enough for close-up exploration.
Best Photography Locations:
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The glacial lakes in front of the ice tongues, where you can closely observe the details of the glaciers.
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Laigu Village (来古村), for long perspectives of the glaciers with strong layering effects.
Activities and Experiences
Visitors to Laigu Glacier (来古冰川) can take a leisurely walk along the scenic Ranwu Lake (然乌湖) and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding icebergs and snow-capped peaks. The village is also ideal for those seeking a peaceful escape, with opportunities for hiking, photography, and observing local Tibetan culture.
The glaciers are best observed from Laigu Village (来古村), where you can enjoy panoramic views of all six surrounding glaciers.
Accommodation and Facilities
Laigu Village (来古村):
Visitors can stay with local Tibetan families or pitch tents at the village’s small school. The accommodation is basic but provides an authentic experience of living in a remote Tibetan village.
Ranwu Town (然乌镇):
For those seeking more comfortable accommodation, Ranwu Town (然乌镇) offers hostels with dormitory beds at around 20 yuan per night, as well as various restaurants and local shops.
Scenic Highlights
The Yalong Glacier (亚隆冰川), with its massive scale and stunning natural beauty, is a highlight of the area. The glacier, stretching 12 kilometers, offers magnificent views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains.
The remote, picturesque Laigu Village (来古村) is a hidden paradise, nestled beneath towering glaciers and pristine natural landscapes.
