Nachaluo Gorge
那恰洛峡谷
The stretch of the Nu River Gorge beyond Qiunatong, after the Bing-Cha-Cha Highway enters Tibet. With cliffs gripping the river and the road carved into the cliff face, it is the most perilous and spectacular section for self-driving into Tibet from Bingzhongluo.
Nachaluo Gorge is a stretch of the Nu River Gorge north of Bingzhongluo, at the border between Yunnan and Tibet. It belongs to Chawalong Township in Chayu County, Tibet, and is the first section of the Bing-Cha-Cha Highway (Bingzhongluo – Chawalong – Chayu) after entering Tibet. Here the Nu River is squeezed between nearly vertical cliffs, with rushing water below. The road is cut into the cliff face, with a thin strip of sky overhead and turbulent river water below. It is considered the most dangerous and spectacular section of the Bing-Cha-Cha route. From Bingzhongluo, it takes about 1 hour north via Qiunatong to reach the gorge. You can make a day trip, or continue on to Chawalong.
Note: Entering Tibet requires carrying your ID and passing border inspection. Foreign visitors must apply in advance for a Tibet entry permit. Rockfalls and landslides are frequent along this stretch, and the road is often closed in the rainy season. Confirm road conditions locally before setting out, and do not stop beneath the cliffs.
Opening hours
All day (depending on road conditions)
Nearby sights
- Qiunatong Village
- Wuli Village
- Shimen Pass
- Puhua Monastery
- Chongding Village & Sacred Heart Church
- Peach Blossom Island
- Bingzhongluo Valley
- First Bend of the Nujiang River