Tanggula

The Tanggula Mountains are a major mountain range on the northeastern edge of the Tibetan Plateau, spanning parts of northern Tibet and extending into Qinghai Province in China. The range runs roughly east-west and forms part of the plateau’s boundary, contributing to the region’s complex hydrology and climate.

Geography and climate: The range is high-altitude and largely glaciated, with extensive snowfields and periglacial terrain. The environment is cold and arid, with sparse alpine vegetation and strong winds. The mountains host headwaters for rivers that drain into major plateau basins.

Geology: The range was formed by the tectonic uplift that created the Tibetan Plateau. It consists of a mix of metamorphic and sedimentary rocks with intrusions of granite, and features rugged profiles carved by glaciers and erosion.

Ecology: The Tanggula landscape supports alpine tundra and steppe ecosystems, with flora and fauna adapted to extreme conditions. The area is relatively sparsely populated and largely used for pastoral activities such as seasonal grazing.

Human activity and significance: The Qinghai-Tibet Railway crosses the range via the Tanggula Pass, one of the highest railway passes in the world. The pass and surrounding areas are important for transportation, research, and tourism, while remaining environmentally sensitive.

Conservation and research: The region is subject to ecological protection efforts and scientific study, particularly regarding glaciology, climate change, and high-altitude ecosystems.