An ancient salt trade route in Xizang’s Ngari prefecture returns to life through cultural tourism and local salt processing efforts.
Over a thousand years ago, more than 50 salt caravans operated in the Ngari Prefecture in the west of the Xizang Autonomous Region. Local herders transported natural salt using yaks and sheep, moving slowly across the highlands. While herding, they carried the salt to places like Purang, Shigatse, and even India and Nepal. Along the way, they traded salt for daily necessities such as barley, brick tea, and fabric. This gave rise to the legendary “Salt and Sheep Ancient Route” — a vital link of trade, culture, and survival in the Himalayas.
In recent years, this ancient route has seen new life. Local communities have built coarse salt processing facilities and developed cultural tourism projects under the “Salt and Sheep Route” brand. These efforts aim to preserve tradition, support local livelihoods, and attract travellers interested in Xizang’s unique heritage.
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