Namjacgarwa means a “lance that pierces the blue sky” iupn Tibetan. It is a most apt description of this peak.
Mt. Namjacgarwa is 7,782 m high and among the world’s most difficult peaks to climb due to its dangerous face and the unpredictable weather there. Located in the Great Canyon area of the Yarlung Zangbo, it has a complicated geological structure, with sheer cliffs and frequent earthquakes and avalanches. Therefore, it is very callenging climb. Amateur climbers are advised not to attempt it without professional guidance.
A widely circulated local legend goes that once upon a time, God sent two brothers, Namjagbarwa and Jialabailei, the younger brother, was an eager learner and a martial arts master. Out of jealousy, Namjagbarwa, the elder brother, murdered Jialabailei, cutting off his head and throwing it down to Mainling County, where it transformed into Dela Mountain. Learning this, God decided to punish Namjagbarwa by assigning him to a permanent guarding post by the Yarlung Zangbo, where he would have to keep his brother company. This legend vividly explains why Mt. Jialabailei has a round top, since it has no head; and why Mt. Namjagbarwa, with a guilty conscience, hides itself in clouds year round so that people cannot see its true face.
The Mt. Namjagbarwa Scenic Area has many activities for tourists, including mountain climbing and rafting. The foot of the mountain has numerous hot springs and lush vegetation, creating an ideal resting spot for tired tourists.