Nagqu Travel Tips

Nagqu is a prefecture-level city located in the northern part of Tibet – between Tanggula Mountains and Nyenchen Tangula Mountains. It borders Xinjiang & Qinghai Province in the north and Chamdo Prefecture in the east, adjoin Lhasa, Nyingchi, Shigatse in the south and Ngari in the west. Covering an area of 450,543 square kilometers, Nagqu is the largest prefecture in Tibet.

1. Useful Numbers

  • Fire: 119
  • Police: 110
  • Area code: 0893
  • Ambulance: 120
  • Weather Broadcast: 121 
  • Consumer Complaint: 12315
  • Local Phone Number Inquiries: 114
  • Long-distance Phone Number Inquiries: 113

Read More: Useful Numbers for Travelers in Tibet

2. Best Time to Visit Nagqu

From May to September is the best time to visit Nagqu. Nagqu is sub-arctic climate zone, cold and oxygen deficit. The climate is dry, windy, with the annual average temperature of -0.9 ℃ to -3.3 ℃. Every year from November to March is arid windy period, dry climate, low temperature, hypoxia wind, long duration. May to September is relatively warm, golden season of grassland, mild climate. Green grassland, all things flourish.

3. Necessary Permits

Tibet Travel Permit is a must to travel in Tibet, and you can’t board your flight or trains to Tibet without it. It is issued by Tibet Tourism Bureau only and can be applied by travel agencies on behalf of you only. To get the permit, you need book a Tibet tour with us, and send us your passport and Chinese visa about 20 days in advance, and then we will apply for the permit (all Tibet permits can only be applied by travel agency).

4. Packing Tips

Don’t forget to bring your passport, Chinese Visa and all needed permits. You are unable to have a Tibet tour without them. It is also important to bring the necessary medicine and sunscreens because the UV is strong. The temperature varies greatly during a day due to the elevation gap, therefore, please wear properly to keep warm.

5. High Altitude Sickness Tips

Nagqu is about 4,500 meters above sea level. Most people will encounter more or less high altitude problems in the plateau. Most of them will be uncomfortable for 1-2 days, then they will be ok. These helpful measures are as follows:

  • Make a physical examination before going to Nagqu.
  • Do not take a shower as far as possible.
  • Do not catch a cold as far as possible.
  • Give up smoking and drinking.
  • Take a oxygen bag if necessary.
  • Pay attention to diet, eat food rich in vitamins that are easy to digest and drink plenty of water.

Please Note: Do not plan your Nagqu Tour in the peak holidays. Because they are popular with Chinese tourists, Nagqu attractions become more crowded in these periods. The most crowded seasons in China are Chinese Spring Festival (usually in late Jan. or early Feb.), International Labor Day (May 01 to 03) and National Day (Oct. 01-07). Spring Festival and the National Day golden week are the most crowded time for travelling.