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Zhada clay forest
A creative work made by wind and water
The splendid effects of the sun in Zhada county of the Ngari prefecture have become legendary. In the myriad rays of the sun the famous clay forest is particularly stunning. Endowed with life and vigour by glowing clouds at sunset, the clay pillars in their different shapes shine against the highland in a fascinating light.
Under the influence of mountain-forming movements in ancient times, the clay forest was formed when sediments deposited by lakes and rivers were exposed to erosion by water. Standing straight, steep, and majestic, these clay "trees" are in various fascinating shapes, some much taller than others. The clay forest of Zhada appears magical and gorgeous, made by the inspired and delicate touch of nature.
If you climb over the Kangdese Mountains, you will be struck dumb with amazement by the sight of the clay forest in its unparalleled magnificence. It looks splendid when seen from afar and exquisite on closer scrutiny.
Clay pillars are scattered every- where on the slopes around the county seat of Zhada. You can take a walk from the town to the clay forest, and will find that you are offered scenes similar to those of the Great Canyon. The clay forest in Maoci Valley is considered the most spectacular of all. The castle-like clay pillars cover a huge area.
It is no wonder that people resorted to legends for an interpretation of what they could see here. A long time ago, it is said, there used to be a vast ocean where present-day Zhada stands. Under the blue sky, there was nothing but wind and water. Gradually, the clay forest began to emerge from under the sea. Though this is only a legend, it contains some elements of the truth.
According to scientific research, in the area where the clay forest now stands there used to be a lake which was approaching 200 square miles (500 square kilometres) in area. The mountain-forming movements that created the Himalayas resulted in an uplifting of the lake's basin and a reduction in the water level. The clay forest was formed by the effects of erosion, which scoured and sculpted the clay from the basin into all manner of shapes of different heights.
Erosion continued for tens of thousands of years, adding more delicate details to the clay pillars - as if they were touched by a stroke of genius.
Location
Zhada Clay Forest is located in Zhada county in Ngari Prefecture, on the west of the Tibet Autonomous Region.
Climate
The annual average temperature of Ngari is 66F (19C). At more than 16,405ft (5000m) above sea level, the temperature here varies greatly from day and night.
Of Special Interest
Zhada Clay Forest features unique land forms with straight, sleep, and majestic clay pillars in the various shapes
Main Attractions
Zhada Clay Forest, Tholing Monastery, the ruins of the Guge kingdom and more.
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