In the Nyingchi area of the Tibet Autonomous Region, the Basum Lake is a popular destination for worship and sightseeing. The scenery of blue and limpid waters and surrounding mountains is often compared to Switzerland. And, in addition to its natural beauty, Nyingchi offers tourists a taste of local culture.
Basum Lake is located about 90 kilometers west of Gongbo'gyamda County. The word "Gongbo" in Tibetan means "those living deep in the valley". The Gongbo Tibetans do not technically live in a valley, but the term does suggest a relative seclusion. And this has probably led to the specific clothes, architecture and religious holidays in the area. Local people here celebrate new year on October 1st on the Tibetan calendar.
In the bustling crowds of tourists, we met a newly wed couple, who came all the way from Beijing to celebrate their special day.
A Beijing tourist said, "We just had a Tibetan wedding ceremony. I thought I would like to take some wedding photos here."
"It was a dream to tie the knot here. I am very glad that I have now realized that dream," said another one.
