Zhaba Gorge (Xianshui River Valley)
扎坝
A deep gorge on the lower Xianshui River, with watchtowers and stone Tibetan villages built into the cliffs. The Zhaba people, who keep the matrilineal 'walking marriage' custom, have lived here for generations.
The Xianshui River flows south from Daofu County town. Near the Zhaba area the riverbed narrows and the drop increases, forming a steep gorge. The Zhaba people, who live in areas such as Yazhuo, Zhatuo and Hongding townships, have a distinctive language, clothing and architecture. They still follow the 'walking marriage' custom, in which men and women do not marry or live together in the usual way. Watchtowers and stone Tibetan villages line both sides of the gorge, built into the hillsides, which is why it is known as the 'Walking Marriage Grand Canyon'. It is about 50 to 70 km from the county town. The mountain roads are narrow and rockfalls are common in the rainy season, so travel during daylight. Always ask for permission before photographing villagers.
Opening hours
All day