Because of the high altitude—much it over 5,000 metres (16,000 ft)—the region is a cold, arid desert that is only 20% covered with steppe and meadow vegetation.

This area is a high basin between the even higher Kunlun Mountains to the north and the Himalayas to the south.

Vegetation zones in the region are greatly affected by elevation and precipitation, but are generally sparsely covered.

Wetter areas will support cushion plants and some woody forbs, but there are no trees on the plateau.

[1] The area supports herds of wild Tibetan antelope, Chinese blue sheep (Bharal), several species of deer, and gazelles.