Shenzha Nature Reserve, located in Shenzha County in Nagchu Prefecture, was established in 1993. It is praised as the paradise of birds since there are more than 120 species of birds here. It is also the bigest protective area against black-necked cranes in China.

Shenzha Nature Reserve is in the wide lake basin area of Changtang Plateau. The climate here is warmer and has lakes of lower salinity. So it is a perfect place for aquatic organisms to live and the birds to multiply. It is noted for its magnificent landscape by various birds. The Gruentso Lake in the reserve covers a water area of 476 square kilometers with an altitude of 4650 meters. The annual precipitation here is about 300 millimeters. Both the glaciers and snow water supply fresh water of Gangdise Mountains for Shenzha Nature Reserve, hence the water here has a low mineral concentration. It is suitable for the growth and reproduction of aquatic organisms and waterfowl.

In the area of low-lying lakes is filled with swamps, meadows, and wet grassland. There are also some inland rivers. All of them make the nature reserve an ideal place to live for black-necked cranes. Other precious birds such as bar-headed goose also perch here as their homeland. The black-necked crane is the first class of national protected animal in China. When different kinds of birds get together, they are waving their wings. The scenery is colorful and spectacular.

Nagchu is an important prefecture of the Tibet Autonomous Region and also a vital communication hub along the Qingghai-Tibet Railway. It is very convenient to make a visit to Shenzha Nature Reserve from other places in Tibet.

Tips of Shenzha Nature Reserve

1. The restaurants in Shenzha mainly supply Sichuan food.

2. If you want to stay the night, the Shenzha Agricultural Guesthouse provides beds for visitors at the cost of CNY 20 per bed.

3. When traveling here, you need to take sunglasses, sunscreen, and some waterproof clothes with you all year round.