Xiaruo Village of Xiaruo Town in Deqin County, Diqing

Xiaruo Village (霞若村) is located in Xiaruo Lisu Ethnic Township (霞若傈僳族乡), Deqin County (德钦县), Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture (迪庆藏族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省). Situated in the core area of the Baima Snow Mountain National Nature Reserve (白马雪山国家级自然保护区) and the Three Parallel Rivers World Natural Heritage Site (三江并流世界自然遗产), Xiaruo Township (霞若乡) lies in the southeastern part of Deqin County (德钦县). It borders Tuoding Township (拖顶乡) to the east, Weixi Lisu Autonomous County (维西傈僳族自治县) to the south, Yanmen Township (燕门乡) to the west, and Benzilan Town (奔子栏镇) to the north. The village is approximately 3 kilometers from the township government seat.

Cultural History

The name “Xiaruo” (霞若) originates from Tibetan, where “Xia” (霞) means “rock” and “Ruo” (若) means “below,” referring to a large rock near the village. Historically, Xiaruo Township (霞若乡) was under the jurisdiction of the “Shenweng” (神翁) of the Wang clan in Benzilan (奔子栏). In May 1959, the Benzilan Office of Weixi County (维西县奔子栏办事处) was transferred to Deqin County (德钦县), and Xiaruo District (霞若区) was incorporated accordingly. In November 2014, Xiaruo Village (霞若村) was listed in the third batch of China’s Traditional Villages.

Folk Customs

Xiaruo Village (霞若村) is a multi-ethnic settlement primarily inhabited by the Lisu (傈僳族) and Tibetan (藏族) peoples. Three religions coexist harmoniously here: Tibetan Buddhism, Christianity, and the traditional Lisu (傈僳族) religion. Traditional dwellings include Tibetan (藏族) “rammed-earth and plank houses” and Lisu (傈僳族) “log cabins.” Folk performances feature the Lisu (傈僳族) Achimugua (阿尺木括) and Ayoyo (阿哟哟) dances, as well as Tibetan (藏族) Xianzi (弦子) and Guozhuang (锅庄) dances.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Xiaruo Township (霞若乡) has a vertically distributed climate ranging from warm temperate to cool temperate zones, with four distinct seasons. The annual average temperature is 10.7°C, and the average precipitation is 726 mm. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant and the scenery is most beautiful.

Recommended Attractions

  • Traditional Residential Architecture of Xiaruo Village: Experience the traditional architectural styles of the Lisu (傈僳族) and Tibetan (藏族) peoples.
  • Pastoral Scenery Along the Zhubaluo River: Enjoy the idyllic landscapes along the riverbanks.
  • Shiba Primeval Forest Ecological Landscape: Explore pristine forests, hot springs, and alpine lakes.

Suggested Duration for Each Destination

  • Traditional Residential Architecture of Xiaruo Village: Half a day to immerse in local architectural culture.
  • Zhubaluo River Pastoral Scenery: Half a day to appreciate the natural beauty.
  • Shiba Primeval Forest: A full day for hiking and photography.

Transportation

  • Self-Driving: From Deqin County (德钦县), take the Tuo-Xia Highway (拖霞公路) to Xiaruo Township (霞若乡), then proceed to Xiaruo Village (霞若村), covering approximately 220 kilometers.
  • Public Transportation: Take a bus from Deqin County Bus Station (德钦县客运站) to Xiaruo Township (霞若乡), then transfer to local transport.

Food

  • Traditional Lisu Cuisine: Such as Pisirou (琵瑟肉) and Zanba (糌粑).
  • Tibetan Delicacies: Including butter tea and barley wine.

Shopping

  • Ethnic Handicrafts: Such as wooden bowls and Zanba boxes (糌粑盒), showcasing rich ethnic characteristics.
  • Local Specialties: Including Weixi Baihua Honey (维西百花蜜) and Weixi Walnuts (维西核桃).

Accommodation

Tibetan-style homestays are available in and around Xiaruo Village (霞若村), offering comfortable stays with authentic cultural experiences.

Travel Tips

  • Respect Local Customs: Observe the religious and cultural practices of the Lisu (傈僳族) and Tibetan (藏族) communities.
  • Environmental Protection: Help preserve the pristine ecosystem of Xiaruo Village (霞若村).
  • Safety Note: Exercise caution when driving on the rugged mountain roads.

Itinerary Suggestions

  • Day 1: Arrive in Xiaruo Village (霞若村), visit traditional dwellings, experience local culture, and sample ethnic cuisine.
  • Day 2: Explore the Zhubaluo River (珠巴洛河) scenery; hike and photograph in Shiba Primeval Forest (施坝原始森林).
  • Day 3: Return to Deqin County (德钦县) or continue your journey.

Xiaruo Village (霞若村) offers a captivating blend of ethnic traditions and natural splendor, perfect for travelers seeking cultural immersion and scenic exploration. Here, warm hospitality and ancient heritage await. May your visit be enriching and unforgettable.