Tourist Attractions Map of Gongshan County in Nujiang

1. Natural Wonders

1.1 Biluo Snow Mountain Range

• Why Visit: As part of the Three Parallel Rivers of Yunnan UNESCO site, this range boasts 15 peaks exceeding 4,000 meters, including the dramatic Laowo Mountain (4,435m). Its glaciers, alpine lakes (e.g., Nianboyibi Sacred Lake), and virgin forests create a surreal landscape.
• Activities: Trekking to alpine meadows, birdwatching, and photography, especially during spring when rhododendrons bloom. The Nadangduo Trail is a popular multi-day route connecting Nujiang and Lancang valleys.

1.2 Dulong River Gorge

• Highlights: Often called “China’s Last Secret,” this 250-kilometer gorge is home to the Dulong people and features jade-green rivers, waterfalls, and subtropical-to-alpine ecosystems. The Moonfall Waterfall (150 meters tall) and Jinglangdang Village are must-sees.
• Best Time: May–August for lush greenery; September–November for autumn colors. Note: The road to Dulongjiang Township (S318) may close temporarily due to landslides or snow 12.

1.3 Nujiang First Bend

• Key Feature: A horseshoe-shaped river bend near Bingzhongluo Town, where the Nujiang River carves through cliffs, creating a “hidden paradise” called Kantong Village. The overlook at Yangzhiyu Factory offers panoramic views.
• New Development: In 2025, the Bingzhongluo Tourist Scenic Area Project will open, featuring a visitor center, camping grounds, and upgraded trails 13.

1.4 Shimen Pass

• Unique Trait: A natural rock gate formed by 500-meter cliffs, this geological marvel was once a critical checkpoint on the ancient Tea-Horse Caravan Route. Hiking trails lead to hidden caves and Buddhist inscriptions.

2. Cultural & Historical Sites

2.1 Puhua Temple

• Significance: A Ming Dynasty Tibetan Buddhist monastery built into cliffs, featuring intricate stone carvings and frescoes. Its location offers sweeping views of the Nujiang Valley.
• Visiting Hours: 8:00 AM–6:00 PM daily 8.

2.2 Dulong Ethnic Villages

• Dimaluo Village: A Nu and Tibetan community known for terraced fields and traditional stilt houses. Participate in the Nu New Year (late January) to witness ancient rituals.
• Longyuan Village: The last stronghold of the Dulong tattoo culture, where elderly women still bear facial tattoos symbolizing adulthood.

2.3 Chayan Ancient Tea-Salt Route

• Heritage: A 1,000-year-old trade route connecting Gongshan’s salt mines to Tibet. The Fuhe Mountain Section preserves weathered stone paths and ancient tree roots.

3. Adventure & Outdoor Activities

3.1 Trekking Routes

• Bingzhongluo to Qiunatong: A 18-kilometer trail through terraced fields and forests, passing Wuli Village (a photographer’s paradise) and ending at Qiunatong, a Tibetan hamlet surrounded by snow peaks.
• Gaoligongshan Core Zone: For experienced hikers, the Nadangduo Trail (7–10 days) crosses glaciers and alpine meadows, offering encounters with rare wildlife like Yunnan snub-nosed monkeys.

3.2 River Rafting

• Nujiang River: Class III–IV rapids between Bingzhongluo and Liuku attract adrenaline seekers. Season: May–October.

3.3 Hot Springs

• Dulongjiang Hot Springs: Natural sulfur springs in the heart of the gorge, ideal for soaking after a trek.

4. Festivals & Local Culture

4.1 Kaduo Festival

• When: January 10–15. This Dulong New Year features bull sacrifices, masked dances, and communal feasts. The highlight is the bull-stabbing ritual, a symbolic act of gratitude to nature.

4.2 Nu Women’s Festival

• When: March 15–17. Celebrates the goddess Azhi with singing, dancing, and offerings of flowers.

5. Practical Tips

5.1 Getting There

• By Road: From Liuku (Nujiang’s capital), buses take 5.5 hours to Gongshan County. From Gongshan, 4×4 vehicles or minivans reach Dulongjiang Township (3 hours). Note: The S318 road to Dulongjiang is narrow and prone to landslides 12.
• By Air: The nearest airport is Dali Airport (4 hours by bus to Gongshan).

5.2 Accommodation

• Bingzhongluo: Rustic guesthouses like Dulang Tea Horse Inn (¥150–300/night) offer valley views.
• Dulongjiang Township: Basic homestays in Kongdang Village (¥80–150/night).

5.3 Safety & Logistics

• Border Permits: Not required for Gongshan County, but carry ID for random checks 3.
• Best Seasons: Spring (March–May) for flowers; autumn (September–November) for clear skies.
• Packing: Waterproof gear, sturdy boots, and altitude medication (some trails exceed 4,000 meters).

6. Off-the-Beaten-Path Gems

• Fuhe Mountain: A lesser-known hiking destination with alpine lakes and autumn red maple forests.
• Yushuiping Neolithic Site: A cave with 3,000-year-old artifacts, offering insights into prehistoric Yunnan.

7. Local Cuisine

• Lacquer Oil Chicken: A Dulong specialty slow-cooked in lacquer tree oil, a medicinal ingredient.
• Suan Sansi (Sour Trio): A tangy stir-fry of pickled papaya, potatoes, and cured pork liver.
• Bitter Buckwheat Sausage: Pork intestines stuffed with buckwheat flour and blood, grilled over an open fire.