Xigazê

Xigazê
Name	Xigazê
Coordinates	29, 00, N, 89...
Subdivision type	Country
Subdivision name	China
Subdivision type1	Autonomous region
Subdivision name1	Tibet Autonomous Region
Area total km2	163,900
Population total	715,000
Population density km2	auto
Timezone	China Standard Time
Utc offset	+8
Postal code	857000
Area code	0892

Xigazê is a prefecture-level city in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. It is located in the southwestern part of the Tibet Autonomous Region, bordering Nepal to the south, India to the southwest, and the Qinghai and Gansu provinces to the north and east, respectively. The city is situated in the Nyainqêntanglha Mountains, with an average elevation of over 4,000 meters above sea level. Xigazê is an important cultural and economic center in the Tibet Autonomous Region, with a rich history dating back to the Tibetan Empire.

Geography

Xigazê is located in the southwestern part of the Tibet Autonomous Region, covering an area of 163,900 square kilometers. The city is situated in the Nyainqêntanglha Mountains, with the Shigatse and Lhasa prefectures to the east and north, respectively. The city's terrain is characterized by high mountains and deep valleys, with the Yarlung Tsangpo River and its tributaries flowing through the region. The climate in Xigazê is cold and dry, with an average temperature of -2°C in January and 10°C in July.

The city's geography is also characterized by its proximity to several major mountain peaks, including Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar, which are considered sacred in Tibetan Buddhism. The region is also home to several major rivers, including the Yarlung Tsangpo River, which flows into the Brahmaputra River in India.

History

Xigazê has a rich history dating back to the Tibetan Empire, with archaeological evidence showing human habitation in the region dating back to the Neolithic period. The city was an important center of trade and commerce during the Tibetan Empire, with the Silk Road passing through the region. In the 13th century, Xigazê was conquered by the Mongols, who established the Shigatse Prefecture.

During the Qing dynasty, Xigazê was a major center of Tibetan Buddhism, with several important monasteries and temples located in the region, including the Tashilhunpo Monastery, which was founded in 1464 and is one of the largest functioning Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in China. The city also played an important role in the Tibetan resistance to Chinese rule, with several major uprisings occurring in the region during the 20th century.

Economy

The economy of Xigazê is primarily based on agriculture, with major crops including barley, wheat, and potatoes. The region is also known for its mineral resources, including copper, lead, and zinc. In recent years, Xigazê has experienced significant economic growth, driven by its strategic location along the China-Nepal Border and its rich natural resources.

The city is also an important center of tourism, with several major attractions, including the Tashilhunpo Monastery, Mount Kailash, and Lake Manasarovar. The region's unique culture and stunning natural beauty make it a popular destination for tourists from around the world.

Culture

Xigazê is an important cultural center in the Tibet Autonomous Region, with a rich cultural heritage dating back to the Tibetan Empire. The city is home to several major monasteries and temples, including the Tashilhunpo Monastery, which is one of the largest functioning Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in China.

The region is also known for its traditional Tibetan culture, including its music, dance, and art. The city hosts several major festivals throughout the year, including the Shigatse New Year and the Saga Dawa Festival, which are an important part of Tibetan culture.

Administrative divisions

Xigazê is divided into 17 county-level subdivisions, including 16 counties and one district. The city's administrative divisions are:

* Shigatse District * Gegen County * Mali County * Ngamring County * Sangri County * Qiangba County * Shalu County * Tingri County * Sa'gya County * Lhuntse County * Nyingchi County * Shannan County * Xainza County * Bainang County * Rikaze County * Dingri County

Transportation

Xigazê is connected to the rest of China by several major highways, including the China-Nepal Highway and the Lhasa-Shigatse Highway. The city is also served by Shigatse Tingri Airport, which offers flights to Lhasa and other major cities in China. The region's transportation infrastructure is under development, with several major projects underway to improve road and rail connectivity to the rest of China and South Asia.