Nanyi Valley
南伊沟
A pristine forest valley in southern Mainling County, home to the Lhoba people and known as “Tibet’s Hidden Paradise” and the birthplace of Tibetan medicine.
Nanyi Valley lies in Nanyi Lhoba Ethnic Township in Mainling City. It is a pristine forest valley on the northern slope of the Himalayas, south of the Yarlung Tsangpo River, at an altitude of about 2,900–3,300 meters. The valley has extensive spruce and fir forests, alpine meadows and winding streams, and it is often called “Tibet’s Hidden Paradise.” Nanyi is the main settlement of the Lhoba people, one of the smallest ethnic groups in China. At the entrance, Caizhao village offers insight into Lhoba clothing, hunting culture and traditional houses. Tradition says that Yuthok Yonten Gonpo, the founding father of Tibetan medicine, gathered herbs and taught here. Remains of the “Medicine King Valley” are also in the valley. A sightseeing shuttle travels about 20 km along the main road into the valley, and you can get off at viewpoints such as “Heavenly Grassland” and hike from there. Admission costs about 90–120 yuan, including the shuttle, but check with the scenic area for current prices. Plan for half a day to a full day. Getting there: it takes about 1.5 hours from Bayi Town to Mainling, and another 20 minutes to the scenic entrance. Note: the valley is close to the border, so you must bring your ID card to enter. Watch for leeches and falling rocks in the rainy season, and respect Lhoba customs.
Opening hours
09:00–18:00
Nearby sights
- Lamaling Monastery
- Yani National Wetland Park
- Gala Peach Blossom Village
- Giant Cypress Park (King Cypress)
- Niyang Pavilion
- Biri Sacred Mountain Boardwalk
- Bayi Town (Nyingchi City)
- Millennium Walnut King