Lago Glacier is now the largest and widest glacier known in Xizang. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Situated next to Ravog Lake in Chamdo city, Xizang autonomous region in Southwest China, Pashod county has experienced a surge in vitality, largely due to its proximity to the renowned 318 National Highway, which acts as a magnet for numerous tourists.

In recent years, the county has made the cultural tourism industry its top priority for economic development, thoroughly exploring and fully utilizing its cultural tourism resources while actively promoting their integrated development.

Since the start of the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-25), the county has invested over 48 million yuan ($6.79 million) in the cultural tourism sector, resulting in significant achievements.

At present, Pashod county is home to three national 3A-level scenic areas, including the Lago Glacier. Additionally, the Ravog Lake Scenic Area has initiated the process of upgrading to a 4A-level scenic area, positioning the county as the one with the highest number of A-level scenic areas in Chamdo.

Dawa Drolma, the cultural tourism ambassador of Pashod county, shared that the county has welcomed over 1.3 million tourists from January to September this year, generating a total tourism income of 266 million yuan, showing a 48.9 percent increase compared to the previous year.

Lago Glacier, one of the world's three largest marine glacier groups, is located next to the Ravog Lake Scenic Area and is named after the village at its base, Lago village. It preserves intact glacier relics while also nurturing modern glaciers.

In the past, due to limited transportation access, Lago Glacier was relatively unknown, and visitors could only reach it through challenging hikes or horseback rides guided by villagers.

The 318 National Highway, completed and opened to traffic 70 years ago, has become a "bridge of hearts", promoting ethnic integration and unity among people, as highlighted by Dawa Drolma.

With the steady improvement of infrastructure, Lago village has begun developing its tourism economy, establishing tourism service facilities such as hotels and homestays, diversifying the income sources of villagers.

In 2023, the county's cultural tourism industry directly or indirectly offered employment to over 2,200 farmers and herdsmen, generating an employment income of 32.56 million yuan.

Sonam Dondrub, a native of Lago village, now works as a security guard at the Lago Glacier Scenic Area, while his wife runs a bubble tea shop in the tourist center hall.

"Both of us work here now, earning considerable incomes, which has improved our quality of life very much," said Sonam Thondrup.

Of note, Pashod county aims to establish one 5A-level scenic area, two 4A-level scenic areas, and three 3A-level ones by 2028, with an estimated annual tourist reception of 2 million people and a tourism income exceeding 600 million yuan.

A breathtaking view of the tranquil Ravog Lake, autumn woods adorned with a blend of green and yellow hues, and snow-capped mountains. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]