Bome Travel Guide

If mountains and breathtaking snowy scenery are what you love, then you have to travel to Bome while in Tibet. Nicknamed the "Switzerland of Tibet", this beautiful area in the southeastern region of the country is home to the colossal Kaqin glacier. Bome averages about 4000 meters above sea level (over 13,000 feet) and can be quite chilly during the winter. The area is known for rich primitive forests, snowy mountain ranges, winding rivers and peaceful lakes. Spring brings beautiful blossoms to the abundant peach trees in the area. Plan your trip in late March to catch the flowers in full bloom. Autumn is also a magical time to visit Bome. As the leaves turn shades of yellow and orange and winter begins to set it, the transformation of the seasons takes place right before your eyes.

Besides the majestic mountains, the Bome area is known for the spectacularly clear Ranwu Lake. Like a giant mirror, the pristine waters reflect the mountains and the sky above. It is the largest lake in southeast Tibet, fed by fresh waters from melting snow and glaciers. The lake is vast, stretching over 22,000 square kilometers (8,500 square miles). Depending on the time of year, the color of the water can be anywhere from a bright sea green to deep blue turquoise. With the vast amount of pine forests in the area, you might just forget that you are in Tibet all together.

Small villages surrounding Ranwu Lake are different from other Tibetan towns. The houses are without colorful decoration or painting and are much more compact to help preserve heat during the cold winter months.

Bome is close to Ranwu, only about 100 kilometers away, and is usually seen in conjunction with other neighboring eastern Tibet towns. It is around 200 kilometers away from the Nyingchi Airport. Bome has basic but good overnight facilities. Bus options from Lhasa to Bome via Chamdo can be arranged. Bome is about 600 kilometers (375 miles) from the capital. Most towns in this region are situated somewhere along branches of the Sichuan-Tibet National Highway. Ranwu is located on the national highway at No. 318 and is visited by many tourist coach buses.

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Tibet Culture and Scenery Tour from $1,879 USD