Nyingchi Attractions

Yarlung Tsangpo River

Encircled by Himalaya, Nyenchhen Tanglha Mountains and the Hengduan mountains, Nyingchi City is considered as the 'South of the Yangtze River' of Tibet. Situated at the lower reaches of Yarlung Tsangpo River, it has an average elevation of approximately 9,843 feet. Its unique geographical location contributes to its various tourist resources, the attractive valley, beautiful lake, splendid waterfall, majestic mountains, thick forest as well as the ancient Buddhist temples.

The most recommended attraction in Nyingchi should be the Yarlung Tsangpo River. With a length of over 1,278 miles, it is the fifth longest river of China. The Yarlung Tsangpo River has many branches and it has the second largest natural hydropower capacity of rivers in China. Being called 'Heaven River', it is the mother river of the Tibetan people who have created the brilliant Tibetan culture. Mt. Namcha Barwa, the most beautiful snow mountain in China, faces Mt. Gyala Peri across the Yarlung Tsangpo River. Lying at the lower reaches of this river, the Yarlung Tsangpo River Valley is the deepest and the longest valley in the world, a nice place for visitors to see the wonder of nature.

The beauty of Nyingchi also lies in the lakes. The most well-known lake is the Pagsum lake. Covering an area of 6,400 acres, the lake is like a crescent in shape. Located in the valley, the water is rather clean and clear. Admiring the reflection of the snow mountain in the water is quite fantastic. A little smaller than the Pagsum lake, the Yigong Lake has a lower elevation and is reputed for its well-preserved ecology.

The splendid waterfalls here deserve a visit. You may have ever heard of the Tiger's Mouth Waterfall. It is named by its earthshaking noise when the water falls, just like a tiger is roaring. It is said that the most beautiful scenery is at the sunset when the rainbow can be seen. The Hanmi Waterfall attracts visitors by its multiple layers and high drop height. If you want to have a look at magnificent icefalls, please go to Midui Glacier, which is not far from China's National Highway No. 318.

Beautiful as Nyingchi's water, mountains here are considered to be holy and mysterious. Situated in the southeast of Nyingchi County and the northern side of the Yarlung Tsangpo River, the Benri Mountain used to be regarded as a holy mountain by the original religion of Tibet; while the Mount Sejila, lying to the east of Nyingchi County, boasts of the colorful azaleas on the mountain.

Holy Mountain in Nyingchi

Pagsum lake

If visitors want to learn more about the local vegetation cover, they may choose to go to the Cibagou Natural Reserve or the Lulang Forest. Or they can go on a trek heading for the mysterious Motuo. However, Nyingchi also has its human landscapes. Going to the Bujiu Lamasery, Daze Temple, Paga Temple and the Xiuba Ancient Castle will let visitors learn something about the history of the Tibetan Buddhism. 

Read more: Motuo Trekking