Known as Sengge Zangbo in Tibetan, the Shiquan River is the upper stream of the Indus River and one of the major rivers in western Xizang. It originates from a glacial lake north of Mount Kangrinboqe, the main peak of the Gangdise Range. The river flows south to north first, then turns west near Bangba. After passing Geji, it merges with the Gar Zangbo around Zhaxigang and continues northwest into Kashmir.

Within China’s territory, the river stretches 405 kilometers long with a drainage area of 274,500 square kilometers. Its upper reach from the source to Geji is roughly 152 kilometers long, with a total drop of 646 meters. Flowing through Senggekaba, it is fed by perennial springs on the right bank. The mountain beside the springs resembles a lion, hence the name Shiquan River (Lion Spring River).