Xigaze delivers nonstop moments of awe

In Xigaze, prepare to be dazed.

There is the sun, strong and heating up the wintry land to more than 10 C during the day. There is also the lack of oxygen. Bring an oxygen bag if you're driving from Lhasa, as it's a climb of a very formidable few hundred meters in altitude. Above all, the scenery is beautiful for a first-timer.

If you're taking the longer, winding road up (the other option is the slightly less eventful 318 State Highway), the Yamdrok Co (Lake) will be the first sight that arrests you.