Detailed Guide to Mount Shapu: Everything You Need to Know

Mount Shapu (also known as Shapu Snow Mountain) is located in Puzong Valley, Yangxiu Township, Biru County, Nagqu City, Tibet. This majestic snow-capped peak stands at 6,956 meters above sea level and has recently become a trending destination in Tibet due to its unique pyramid-shaped summit, glacial lakes, and pristine landscapes. It’s hailed as "the hidden gem of Tibet’s secrets." Below is a comprehensive guide to visiting Shapu: ### **1. Overview of Mount Shapu** - **Location**: Puzong Valley, Yangxiu Township, Biru County, Nagqu City, Tibet, about 700 km from Lhasa. - **Altitude**: The outer lake sits at 4,700 meters, while the inner lake is higher. Be cautious of altitude sickness during hikes. - **Highlights**: - A pyramid-shaped main peak surrounded by seven snow-capped mountains, forming a unique "sacred mountain family" landscape. - The sacred Shapu Lake at the foot is divided into the **Inner Lake** (glacial lake) and **Outer Lake** (meadow lake). The water changes with seasons—emerald green in summer and frozen into dreamy blue ice in winter. - Named by *National Geographic* as a "must-visit destination in your lifetime." ### **2. Best Time to Visit** - **May to September (Summer)**: Warmer weather, melted lakes, ideal for hiking and photography. - **October to April (Winter)**: Frozen lakes offer stunning blue ice views, but some routes may close due to snow. - **Note**: Briefly closed after November 1, 2024, but now reopened. ### **3. How to Get There** - **Self-drive/Private Car (Recommended)**: - From Lhasa, pass Nagqu and Biru County (~12 hours). A 4WD is advised due to rough terrain. - Navigate to "Shapu Visitor Center" and transfer to the shuttle (16 km one way, 30 minutes). - **Public Transport**: - Lhasa → Nagqu (train/bus) → Biru County (bus) → Private car to Shapu. ### **4. Key Attractions & Activities** **(1) Outer Lake** - **Golden Sunrise**: Arrive before 7 AM to capture the mountain’s reflection. - **Camping**: Suitable for tents, but beware of brown bears. - **Prayer Flags**: A sacred site for Tibetan blessings. **(2) Inner Lake (Hike Required)** - **Glacier Up Close**: A 2-hour hike from the outer lake with breathtaking views but challenging terrain (not recommended for beginners). - **Cliffside Temple**: A small temple near the inner lake, guarded by a single monk. **(3) Unique Experiences** - **Stargazing & Sunrise**: Camp at the base to photograph the Milky Way. - **Wildlife**: Spot Tibetan foxes, snow leopards, or brown bears (keep distance). ### **5. Tickets & Fees (2025 Update)** - **Entrance Fee**: - **Peak Season (Apr 1–Nov 30)**: ¥138/person - **Off-Season (Dec 1–Mar 31)**: ¥89/person - **Shuttle**: Round-trip ¥45/person (Visitor Center → Outer Lake). - **Discounts**: - **Free**: Seniors (60+), military, disabled. - **Half-price**: Students, minors under 18. ### **6. Accommodation & Dining** - **Baiga/Yangxiu Township (Recommended)**: Better facilities, 2-hour drive to the site. - **Shapu Base Camp**: Beds ~¥100/person, no private bathrooms (caution at high altitude). - **Dining**: Bring snacks; Tibetan meals (yak meat, butter tea) available in towns. ### **7. Important Tips** - **Altitude Sickness**: Take Rhodiola in advance, avoid exertion, carry oxygen. - **Unpredictable Weather**: Pack warm clothes for sudden snow or wind. - **Safety Warnings**: - **Brown bears**! Do not feed or approach. - Hike the inner lake with companions; some areas are restricted (glacier protection). ### **8. Recommended Itinerary (5–7 Days)** - **Day 1**: Lhasa → Nagqu (acclimatize) - **Day 2**: Nagqu → Biru County → Shapu Outer Lake (stay in Baiga) - **Day 3**: Shapu hike (Inner Lake + Glacier) → Return to Biru - **Day 4**: Biru → Skull Wall → Damxung - **Day 5**: Damxung → Namtso/Yamdrok Lake → Lhasa Mount Shapu’s breathtaking scenery is said to "eclipse other attractions," but its challenging terrain suits experienced adventurers. Plan ahead, monitor weather/road conditions, and prioritize safety!