“Without Ali, there is no Tibet.” This phrase may have sounded exaggerated once, but once you set foot in Ali (or Ngari, Tibet), you will soon realize that this statement holds true. If Tibet is the “Roof of the World,” then Ali is the “Peak of the Roof.”
A Remote Wonderland
Located in one of the most sparsely populated areas in the world, Ali boasts an average elevation of over 4,500 meters, making it the highest and most pristine geographical unit of Tibet. This region is often referred to as the “Source of a Hundred Rivers and the Ancestor of All Mountains.”
Nature’s Masterpiece
Ali is a world of boundless skies, vast plains, and majestic mountains, where the legendary Mount Kailash (Kailash Parbat) stands as the jewel of the land. For Buddhists, a pilgrimage to Mount Kailash is a lifetime aspiration, and some even say that dying on the way is a blessing, as one’s soul ascends to heaven. The mountain’s beauty is enchanting, with snow covering its eastern slopes year-round, while the western side is largely devoid of snow. Even after a heavy snowfall, the sun quickly melts it away. With its towering peaks, sparkling white snow, and surrounding lakes, Mount Kailash radiates a mystical aura. 
Sacred Lakes and Mystical Landscapes
Nearby lies the Mäphan Tso (Maphan Yung Co), also known as the “Sacred Lake of Tibet,” a place of serene beauty. In stark contrast, the Lake Rakshastal (also called the “Ghost Lake”) lies just next to it. The lake’s blue waters and the nearby crimson mountains create a breathtaking view, with no people or animals in sight. The air is filled with an eerie stillness, as though standing on the edge of the universe itself.
The Ultimate Adventure
For adventurers, Ali is the ultimate challenge. Qiangtang, a vast and barren region, is considered one of the most difficult and dangerous terrains to cross, with high winds and endless stretches of rugged land. Yet, despite the risks, this remote place offers a pure, unspoiled beauty, attracting those with a sense of adventure.
Zhada Earth Forest: A Fairyland
The Zhada Earth Forest in Ali is a mesmerizing natural wonder, formed by years of erosion from rivers. Under the ethereal light of the high-altitude plateau, the landscape here looks like something from a mythological world. The Zhada Earth Forest is best viewed at sunset, when the warm light paints the formations, making them appear like ancient fortresses, watchtowers, or tents.
A Glimpse into History: The Guge Kingdom
Ali is also home to the Guge Kingdom, one of the oldest and most mysterious civilizations of Tibet. Located in the remote Guge Ruins, these remnants tell a tale of an ancient kingdom that flourished for centuries but eventually fell into decline. Today, only scattered ruins and fragile historical records remain, deepening the mystery of the Guge Kingdom and its lost culture.
The Soul of Tibet
Ali is not just a place on a map; it’s a spiritual experience that captivates the soul. From its towering mountains and sacred lakes to the free-spirited eagles and antelopes roaming the grasslands, Ali offers some of the purest and most untouched landscapes in Tibet. It’s a place where every moment seems to freeze in time, capturing the essence of Tibet’s beauty and mysticism.
Ali is the paradise of Tibet, the heaven within heaven. It’s a place where nature’s power, history’s silence, and spirituality converge. Though remote and difficult to reach, it remains a hidden gem, a sanctuary for the brave at heart. Without Ali, there is no Tibet.
