Zhangmu Town
Further down in elevation is a beautiful, flourishing, sub-tropical town that lies on the Tibet-Nepal border. At only 2,300 meters (7500 feet) altitude, Zhangmu sits much lower than other areas in Tibet. Just like Chayu, the humid summers and mild climate throughout all seasons allow for large, blooming plants to thrive year round. Built right into a steep hillside, the town’s beauty is unmatched.
As snow from not-so-distant, towering Himalayan peaks begin their yearly melt, Zhangmu is transformed into a waterfall haven. Rivers and creeks tumble down the areas abundant hillsides and wind their way downstream for miles and miles. These waters feed the surrounding greenery and help to maintain the temperate climate.
The village itself is quite the sight to see as well. Most houses are two or even three stories tall. These modern types of structures are unusual in Tibet but are very practical for the town. Most homes have private gardens spotted with prayer flags and lucky trees. This gives the already colorful town even more flair and style of its own.
Since the town is located right on the border of Nepal, it is used as a commercial gateway into the neighboring country. This appeal makes Zhangmu popular with businessmen and tourists alike. Just above the Nepalese town of Kodari, traveling truckloads of international goods are transported up and down the China-Nepal Highway. They are often unloaded, transferred or inspected here in the border town, whose narrow zigzagging street makes for a precarious operation. The main part of the Zhangmu hustles and bustles around just as much as the trucks do. Look for the city’s main market, which is always teaming with locals and tourists alike.
Zhangmu's close proximity to Mount Everest makes the world’s highest mountain a popular side trip when staying in the city. Besides the visiting the surrounding mountains, tourists also enjoy touring the various local monasteries. Important sites such as the Palkhor Monastery, Tashilhunpo Monastery, and Rongbuk Monastery are great to see when spending time in Zhangmu. The Saka Dawa Festival in mid April draws many pilgrims to the Palkhor Monastery. It is said to be a celebration of Sakyamuni’s birthday. And if you happen to be in Tibet during this time, you are not going to want to miss this cultural festival.
The combination of the year-round warm temperatures, the crossroads of the two countries and the luscious surrounding landscape makes memories that leave lasting impressions. When preparing for a trip to Zhangmu, don’t forget your umbrella or non-slip shoes. With so much water, even paved walkways can get the best of you. You can journey into Nepal and nearby Katmandu (100 kilometers/60 miles away) but don’t forget your passport, visa and other necessary items for the checkpoint. Buses between Lhasa and Zhangmu are rare. Have your travel guide arrange transportation by car. Once in town, there are several hotels and hostels if you are planning to stay overnight.
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