The Sanjiangyuan National Park (in Chinese: 三江源; literal translation into English: ‘Source of Three Rivers’), located on the remote Tibetan Plateau, is one of China’s most important natural areas. Known for being the source of Asia’s three most important rivers—the Yellow River, the Yangtze, and the Lancang—Sanjiangyuan offers a unique combination of alpine landscapes, vast wetlands, and biodiversity. In this article, we will take you on a journey to discover the unexplored beauty of this park, its hiking trails, its wildlife and flora, as well as the nomadic communities that inhabit it.
Content
- 1 Information about Sanjiangyuan National Park
- 2 How to Get to Sanjiangyuan National Park
- 3 Geography of Sanjiangyuan
- 4 Flora of Sanjiangyuan
- 5 Fauna of Sanjiangyuan
- 6 Recommended Excursions and Activities
- 7 What to See and Do in Sanjiangyuan National Park
- 7.1 Origin of the Yellow River
- 7.2 Origin of the Yangtze River
- 7.3 Origin of the Lancang River
- 7.4 Tibetan Plateau
- 7.5 Sanjiangyuan Glaciers
- 7.6 Zhaling Lake Trail
- 7.7 Eling Lake Trail
- 7.8 Wetland Areas
- 7.9 Kekexili Mountains
- 7.10 Sanjiangyuan Grasslands
- 7.11 Wildlife Watching
- 7.12 Cycling and Other Adventure Sports
- 8 Nomadic Communities in Sanjiangyuan
- 9 Gastronomy of Sanjiangyuan
- 10 Accommodations in Sanjiangyuan
Information about Sanjiangyuan National Park
History
Sanjiangyuan National Park was established in 2015 as part of an effort to protect the sources of China’s three great rivers. Its creation responds to the growing concern for the preservation of the fragile ecosystems of the Tibetan Plateau and its importance in the country’s water regulation. Sanjiangyuan is considered an ecologically high-priority area, and its history is deeply connected with the Tibetan nomadic cultures that have inhabited this region for centuries.
Location
Sanjiangyuan is located in Qinghai Province, in the central part of the Tibetan Plateau. With an average altitude of more than 4,000 meters above sea level, this vast area covers over 350,000 square kilometers, including mountains, glaciers, lakes, and extensive grasslands and wetlands. The remote location of the park makes it a perfect destination for travelers looking to escape the crowds and enjoy nature in its purest form.
Best Time to Visit Sanjiangyuan
The best time to visit Sanjiangyuan is between May and September when the temperatures are more moderate, and the weather is more stable. During this period, the grasslands are in full bloom, and the lakes and rivers flow with strength. Additionally, it is the ideal season for wildlife watching and exploring the numerous trails of the park.
How to Get to Sanjiangyuan National Park
From Xining
The city of Xining, the capital of Qinghai Province, is the main gateway to Sanjiangyuan National Park. From Xining, you can take a bus or a short flight to Yushu or Golmud and from there arrange private transportation to reach the more remote areas of the park.
From Yushu
Yushu is one of the closest cities to the park and a good starting point for travelers wishing to explore Sanjiangyuan. Guided tours can be arranged from Yushu to visit the river sources and other natural areas of interest.
From Golmud
Golmud is another option for travelers looking to venture into Sanjiangyuan National Park. As with Yushu, expeditions can be organized from here to the park’s most notable areas, such as glaciers and wetlands.
From Lhasa
Although Lhasa is further away, some travelers choose to combine their visit to Tibet with an excursion to Sanjiangyuan. There are bus routes and private transportation options connecting Lhasa with the cities near the park.
Geography of Sanjiangyuan
Sanjiangyuan National Park is one of the most geographically diverse areas in China, with an altitude ranging from 3,500 to 6,000 meters. The park is divided into three major zones: the Yellow River Basin, the Yangtze River Basin, and the Lancang River Basin. Its landscapes include snow-capped mountains, glaciers, crystal-clear lakes, and extensive wetlands, which are part of the most fragile ecosystems on the Tibetan Plateau.
Flora of Sanjiangyuan
The flora of Sanjiangyuan is unique, adapted to the harsh climatic conditions of the altitude. Among the most notable species are the grasslands of the Tibetan Plateau, alpine shrubs, and wildflowers that bloom during the summer. These vegetation ecosystems are not only vital to the local fauna but also play an important role in water retention and soil erosion prevention.
The protected area of Sanjiangyuan in China is composed of more than 1,600 plant species distributed across 396 genera and 83 families. Due to the extreme altitude conditions, the species present have developed special adaptations to survive. Among the most important plants are grasses (220 species), Asteraceae (184 species), and Brassicaceae (100 species), which make up much of the grasslands of the Tibetan Plateau. Alpine shrubs and wildflowers, such as those from the Rosaceae family (78 species), are also prominent, blooming in summer and adding color to the landscape.
These plants not only play a fundamental role in the ecosystem by providing food and shelter to the fauna, but they are also essential for water retention and soil erosion prevention, especially in wetland and mountain areas. The vegetation in Sanjiangyuan is key to the region’s water regulation, acting as an ecological barrier that protects the sources of Asia’s great rivers.
Fauna of Sanjiangyuan
Sanjiangyuan is home to a large number of animal species, many of them endangered. Among the most iconic animals are the snow leopard (Panthera uncia), the wild yak (Bos mutus), the Tibetan antelope (Pantholops hodgsonii), and the Tibetan wolf (Canis lupus chanco). The conservation of these species is one of the main reasons why this national park was created.
Recommended Excursions and Activities
During your visit to Sanjiangyuan, a wide variety of outdoor activities are available, ranging from hiking and cycling to wildlife watching. Additionally, the park offers the opportunity to explore the unique ecosystems of the Tibetan Plateau and learn about the Tibetan nomadic communities that live in the region.
What to See and Do in Sanjiangyuan National Park
Origin of the Yellow River
The Yellow River (in Chinese, 黄 河; pinyin, Huáng Hé), the second longest in China, originates in Sanjiangyuan. Visiting its source is a unique experience, offering insight into the importance of this river for Chinese culture and economy.
Origin of the Yangtze River
The Yangtze, the longest river in Asia, also originates in Sanjiangyuan. Expeditions to this area allow for exploring the early sections of this mighty river.
Origin of the Lancang River
The Lancang, known as the Mekong once it leaves China, is another of the great rivers that originates in Sanjiangyuan. Hiking routes in this area offer impressive views of the wetlands and glaciers that feed the river.
Tibetan Plateau
Sanjiangyuan lies on the edge of the Tibetan Plateau, making it a strategic point for exploring the vast plains of the plateau and learning about its unique geography.
Sanjiangyuan Glaciers
The glaciers of Sanjiangyuan are one of the park’s main attractions. These towering ice fields feed the region’s rivers, and observing them offers a lesson on the impact of climate change on high mountain ecosystems.
Zhaling Lake Trail
Zhaling Lake is one of the most important lakes in Sanjiangyuan. Hikes in this area allow visitors to enjoy high mountain landscapes and observe the rich biodiversity surrounding the lake.
Eling Lake Trail
Eling Lake, neighboring Zhaling, offers similar landscapes but with its own charm. The trails around the lake are ideal for exploring the local fauna and flora.
Wetland Areas
Sanjiangyuan has extensive wetland areas that are crucial for water conservation and serve as habitats for many migratory bird species. These areas are perfect for nature observation.
Kekexili Mountains
The Kekexili Mountains, located in the westernmost part of Sanjiangyuan, are a protected area where the Tibetan antelope can be seen in its natural habitat. This region offers an incomparable wild nature experience.
Sanjiangyuan Grasslands
The park’s grasslands are home to numerous nomadic communities that raise yaks and sheep. Exploring these grasslands offers the opportunity to get a closer look at traditional Tibetan life.
Wildlife Watching
Sanjiangyuan National Park is one of the best places in China for wildlife watching, especially during the summer months when animals are more active. Snow leopards, Tibetan wolves, and wild yaks are some of the most sought-after animals by visitors to the park’s protected area.
Cycling and Other Adventure Sports
Sanjiangyuan offers numerous trails for mountain biking enthusiasts and other adventure sports. Exploring the park by bike provides a unique way to enjoy the impressive landscapes and wildlife.
Nomadic Communities in Sanjiangyuan
The Tibetan nomadic communities have inhabited Sanjiangyuan for centuries, living in harmony with the environment. Visiting these communities allows one to learn about their customs and lifestyle, which depend on yak herding and seasonal mobility.
Gastronomy of Sanjiangyuan
Traditional Tibetan Food
The cuisine in Sanjiangyuan is heavily influenced by Tibetan traditions. Simple and nutritious dishes, such as tsampa (roasted barley flour) and yak butter tea, are staples in the local diet.
Yak Meat
Yak meat is one of the most common products in the region. This staple food is served in a variety of forms, from stews to sausages.
Yak Butter Tea
Yak butter tea is a typical drink of the Tibetan communities and a must-try culinary experience in Sanjiangyuan.
Local Dairy Products
Dairy products, especially those derived from yak milk, are common in the region’s diet. Yak yogurt and artisanal cheese are some of the local and tourist favorites.
Accommodations in Sanjiangyuan
Accommodations in Xining
In Xining, there is a wide range of accommodations available, from budget hotels to more luxurious options, making it a good place to rest before heading to the park.
Accommodations in Yushu
Yushu offers a variety of accommodations, ranging from small Tibetan inns to more modern hotels, ideal for those looking to stay close to the park.
Accommodations in Golmud
Golmud offers accommodations for travelers who wish to explore the westernmost areas of Sanjiangyuan. Comfortable hotels and appropriate tourist services are available here to organize expeditions.
Accommodations in Rural Areas
For those seeking a more immersive experience, it is possible to stay in traditional Tibetan yurts or rural accommodations in areas near nomadic communities.
Recommended next parks: National Parks of China.
See Also
- National parks in Asia by country.
- National parks of the United Arab Emirates.
- National parks of Japan.
- National parks of Saudi Arabia.
- National parks of Brunei.
- National parks of Kazakhstan.
- National parks of Taiwan.
- China to establish Sanjiangyuan National Park.
- China’s Sanjiangyuan National Park sees continued improvement in ecological environment.
- China aims to build world’s largest national park system.
- Government Qinghai.