Qomolangma National Natural Reserve

Qomolangma National Natural Reserve is located at the juncture of Tingri County, Nyalam County, Gyilong County and Tinggye County in Tibet. It covers an area of 3.381 million hectares and was officially established as a national natural reserve in 1994. Qomolangma National Natural Reserve was mainly established for the protection of the high mountains and the plateau ecological system. The natural reserve is rich in hydro-energy, luminous energy and wind energy resources. The unique biogeography features, distinctive natural landscapes, special folk culture and mysterious history composed attractive tourism resources.

Characteristics of Qomolangma National Natural Reserve

The highest peak above the sea level – Mt. Everest and four other high mountains with an altitude of more than 8000 meters are located in Qomolangma National Natural Reserve. Located at the juncture of Tibet and Himalaya Highland with special biogeography, Qomolangma National Natural Reserve has been the most special biogeography region in the world. There are numerous ecosystem types and most of them are in primitive state. It is also quite noted for its rich biological resources, rare endangered species and endemic species. It is measured that there are 2348 higher plants, 53 species of mammals, 206 kinds of birds, 8 kinds of amphibians and 10 species of fishes in Qomolangma National Natural Reserve.

Tourists making a Tibet tour here should also note that 47 species of rare and endangered animals and plants in this reserve have been listed under national key protection, among which there are 10 first class national protected animals and plants. The unique Mt. Everest keeps attracting a large number of tourists and scientists with its fantastic natural landscapes and rich ecological types. Qomolangma National Natural Reserve is the highest natural reserve above the sea level.

Natural Environment of Qomolangma National Natural Reserve

Qomolangma National Natural Reserve covers an area of 33,810 square kilometers and the relative height here reaches 7408 meters (1440-8848 meters). It is divided into three main parts – the core area, relief area and test area. The core area of Qomolangma National Natural Reserve covers 10324.85 square kilometers, which takes about 30.33 percent of the total area of the natural reserve. The relief area covers 6254.93 square kilometers, which takes about 18.64 percent of the natural reserve. The test area covers 16561.3 square kilometers, which takes 51.03 percent of the natural reserve.

It is researched that the annual average temperature in Qomolangma National Natural Reserve is about 2.1 Celsius. The extremely high temperature in this natural reserve is 24.8 Celsius while the extremely low temperature here is -46.4 Celsius. There are about 100-120 frost-free days here. With high altitude, Qomolangma National Natural Reserve enjoys an annual sunshine duration of 3323 hours. The annual average precipitation is about 270.5 millimeters and the rainfall mainly happens between July and September in a year.

With breathtaking natural landscapes, Mt. Everest in Qomolangma National Natural Reserve has been one of the must-visit scenic sites for tourists especially interested in the natural sceneries on Tibet Plateau. Mostly, tourists will stay overnight at Mt. Everest Base Camp so as to appreciate the fascinating sunset view and sunrise view of Mt. Everest. It is said that April, May, September and October are the best months to visit Mt. Everest in the consideration of the vision.