Nujiang Grand Canyon (怒江大峡谷), located in the western part of Yunnan Province, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural diversity. The deepest part of the canyon is found near Bingzhongluo in Gongshan, reaching depths of up to 3,500 meters, earning it the title of the “Grand Canyon of the East.”
The canyon is characterized by its steep cliffs and rugged terrain, with a myriad of famous landmarks such as the Tiger Leaping Gorge, Flying Stone, Listening Command Lake, Stone Moon, Bingzhongluo, and the First Bend of the Nu River. These scenic spots offer breathtaking views and unique geological formations.
The area surrounding Nujiang Grand Canyon is home to several ethnic groups, including the Lisu, Naxi, Drung, Bai, and Pumi peoples, each contributing to the region’s vibrant cultural tapestry with distinct customs and traditions.
Nujiang Grand Canyon combines diverse landscapes, including deep canyons, towering mountains, and rich ethnic cultures along the border. Any section of the Nu River is considered a scenic area, making it a treasure trove for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike. The region boasts a healthy ecosystem, featuring over 500 species of wildlife and more than 3,000 varieties of plants, making it an invaluable tourism resource highlighted by its beautiful natural scenery and unique ethnic customs.
Travel Information about Nujiang Grand Canyon
Admission and Opening Hours
Admission Fees: Most attractions in the Nujiang Grand Canyon do not require an entrance fee.
Opening Hours: The canyon is open to visitors 24 hours a day.
Best Time to Visit
Spring is considered the most beautiful season in Nujiang. The snow-capped Gaoligong Mountains provide a stunning backdrop, while the waters of the Nu River flow gently, resembling jade. Additionally, the annual “Bathhouse Festival” adds a unique charm to the experience during this time.
Accessing the Scenic Area
Location: The Nujiang Grand Canyon is located along the Nu River, stretching from Liuku to Bingzhongluo in Gongshan County, Nujiang Prefecture.
Transportation: Access to the Canyon is primarily by road. Visitors should be prepared for long bus rides and potentially poor road conditions. Here are some travel options:
- Kunming to Liuku:
Distance: 580 km
Travel Time: Approximately 13 hours by bus. - Kunming to Gongshan:
Daily buses depart from Kunming West Bus Station.
Distance: 827 km
Travel Time: Approximately 18 hours.
Ticket Price: Around 150 RMB. - Dali to Liuku:
Daily buses are available from Dali to Liuku.
Travel Time: Approximately 8 hours. - Baoshan to Liuku:
Distance: 120 km
Travel Time: Approximately 4 hours by bus.
Attraction Ratings
- Cultural Experience: ★★★
- Unique Features: ★★★
- Leisure Activities: ★★★
- Scenic Beauty: ★★★★
- Romance: ★★★
- Adventure and Thrill: ★★★★★
Highlights of Nujiang Grand Canyon
Pianma
Nestled at the border between China and Myanmar, Pianma can be reached by traversing the rugged and rarely visited Gaoligong Mountains through the Wind and Snow Pass. The name “Pianma” translates to “a place where timber is stacked,” reflecting the area’s history and natural resources. Known for its stunning landscapes, Pianma is primarily a destination for adventure tourism and border exploration.
Located not far from the Wind and Snow Pass, Tingming Lake is the source of the Tingming River. This lake is remarkable for its pristine water quality and low biodiversity, giving it an almost mythical aura. Surrounded by lush, primeval forests, the area is a haven for wildlife. Visitors can often spot various animals in their natural habitat. The shores of Tingming Lake are adorned with expansive rhododendron fields and untouched shrubbery, creating a picturesque setting for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Visitors to Pianma can engage in various outdoor activities, including hiking and wildlife observation. The combination of breathtaking views, rich biodiversity, and cultural encounters makes Pianma a unique destination for those looking to explore the less-trodden paths of China’s western frontier.
Gaoligong Mountain National Nature Reserve
The Gaoligong Mountain National Nature Reserve is situated on the western bank of the Nujiang River. Known for its steep terrain and alternating peaks and valleys, the reserve showcases typical high-altitude gorge landscapes and a rich diversity of flora and fauna. The area is home to over 250 species of birds and more than 40 species of mammals, including rare animals such as tigers, black crested gibbons, and golden monkeys, making it a natural paradise for wildlife enthusiasts.
Due to its remarkable biodiversity, Gaoligong Mountain is often referred to as the “world’s gene pool” in academic circles. The reserve’s varied ecosystems support a wide range of species, contributing significantly to global biodiversity conservation efforts. In the central area of the reserve, the Yaojiaping Forest Tourist Resort has been established, providing visitors with a comfortable base to explore the natural beauty of the region.
The ideal time to visit Gaoligong Mountain is in May. During this month, the reserve offers a perfect escape from the scorching summer heat found in the surrounding valleys. The towering mountains shield the area from the cold northwestern winds while retaining the warm, moist air from the Indian Ocean, resulting in a characteristic subtropical climate. This unique climate, combined with the breathtaking scenery, makes Gaoligong Mountain a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Nujiang First Bend
To reach the enchanting Nujiang First Bend, travelers can return from Pianma and continue north along the Nujiang highway. After a long journey and viewing the spectacular scenery of Feilai Stone and Shiyueliang along the riverbanks, visitors will arrive at this renowned natural wonder.
The Nujiang River flows through the area near Ridang Village in Bingzhongluo Township, Gongshan County, Yunnan. Due to the surrounding cliffs and rock formations, the river’s course shifts dramatically from a north-south direction to east-west. After flowing over 300 meters, the river encounters another mountain barrier and must turn back again, creating a striking semi-circular bend known as the Nujiang First Bend.
The Nujiang Terrace, located 500 meters above the river, is a flat and expansive area that forms a peninsula surrounded by water on three sides. This scenic spot features pleasant landscapes, and during harvest seasons or holidays, people flock here to enjoy boating and lively cultural performances. The nearby Kantong Village is often referred to as a “paradise within the gorge,” showcasing picturesque rural scenery.
For photography enthusiasts, the best time to capture the beauty of Nujiang First Bend is in the morning when the area is shaded by the mountains. A long-focus lens is recommended for capturing stunning images, and using a tripod will ensure stability for clearer shots.
Bingzhongluo
Bingzhongluo is located in the northern part of Gongshan Dulong Autonomous County, approximately 329 kilometers from Liuku and 43 kilometers from the county seat of Gongshan. Surrounded by the stunning Biluo Snow Mountain to the east and the Gaoligong Mountain to the west, Bingzhongluo is nestled between these majestic peaks and the Nujiang River, creating a striking mountainous gorge landscape. Due to its picturesque scenery, Bingzhongluo is often referred to as a “paradise” within the Nujiang area.
The region is home to several ethnic groups, including the Nu, Tibetan, and Dulong peoples. This diverse population brings together various religious beliefs, contributing to a rich tapestry of cultural traditions. Visitors can experience local customs such as the Flower Festival, unique stone-slab houses, and traditional stone-slab cakes, all of which showcase the area’s vibrant heritage and culinary delights.
Qiunatong
Qiunatong Village is located to the north of Bingzhongluo and serves as the last village at the northern end of the Nujiang Grand Gorge. In the Nu language, “tong” means peace and safety. The Qiunatong Gorge is considered the most exquisite section of the entire Nujiang Grand Gorge, characterized by dense primeval forests and numerous waterfalls, offering breathtaking views as one traverses through the canyon.
Most of the villagers in Qiunatong are of the Nu ethnic group, with some belonging to the Lisu group. The village features a Catholic church, which, due to its wooden architecture, resembles a temple more than a typical church.
Qiunatong Village is approximately 15 kilometers from Bingzhongluo, accessible via the Bingcha Highway. Traveling by car takes about one and a half hours, while hiking takes around 3 to 4 hours. The journey includes segments from Bingzhongluo to Chongding Village (5 kilometers), from Chongding Village to Sijitong (5 kilometers), and from Sijitong to the Qiunatong Village office (5 kilometers).
Dimaluo
Dimaluo Gorge is located on the western side of Biluo Snow Mountain in Gongshan County’s Pengdang Township. This gorge is a harmonious blend of the living spaces of the Nu and Tibetan ethnic groups and the surrounding natural landscape. The front section of the gorge is narrow and vibrant, filled with the sounds of birds and the fragrance of flowers, complemented by shady trees and accompanying streams. In contrast, the back section features high mountain pastures and the world’s highest corn cultivation area.
Dimaluo Village is situated near the mouth of the gorge. In recent years, its reputation has grown significantly among hikers, as many adventurous travelers have taken to trekking through this previously inaccessible mountain village. As a result, Dimaluo has gained notable recognition and influence on social media and among tourists.
Dulong River
Dulong River originates from the Chayu County in Tibet. It is formed by the confluence of the Kelaolu River and the Mabiluo River, flowing through Diburi into Gongshan County. From there, it turns westward at Maoding, crosses into Myanmar, and merges with the Enmei River. The Dulong River stretches over 90 kilometers within China, with a drainage area of 1,947 square kilometers.
The river resembles a green dragon, roaring through the mist-covered mountains. Influenced by the southwestern monsoon from the Indian Ocean, the area experiences annual rainfall exceeding 3,200 millimeters, resulting in abundant precipitation and a favorable climate. The river valley is rich in diverse plant life, making it one of the regions in China with the most well-preserved primitive ecosystems. As a core area of the “Three Rivers Confluence,” the Dulong River stands independently apart from the more familiar Jinsha, Lancang, and Nu Rivers. It is located at the westernmost part of this confluence and is often referred to as the “Fourth River.”