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The Birishan Ecological Scenic Area is perfect for hiking, wildlife observation, and photography. The area offers beautiful views of the Tibetan plateau, with lush forests, rivers, and mountain landscapes. Visitors can explore the various trails, visit local villages, and enjoy the area's diverse flora and fauna.
Biri Sacred Mountain, located on Quanzhou Road in Bayi Town, Bayi District, Nyingchi City, Tibet Autonomous Region, is the first of the four sacred mountains of the indigenous Tibetan Bon religion. Meaning "Monkey Mountain" in Tibetan, Biri Sacred Mountain is a renowned sacred mountain in Nyingchi, said to have been bestowed by Guru Padmasambhava. From the mountainside, one can overlook the entire Nyingchi landscape. Pilgrimages to the mountain are endless year-round. Every August 10th day of the Tibetan calendar, a grand circumambulation ceremony known as "Niangbulasu" (meaning to pray for treasures from the gods) is held. Biri Sacred Mountain also houses China's second-largest natural history museum, a sight well worth a visit. Within Ziburi Sacred Mountain lie the ruins of a palace fortress. The fortress was magnificent, with tall walls, arched gates, a central palace, temples, and forts. Ziburi Sacred Mountain is revered as a "sacred mountain" by locals, who circumambulate it annually to pray for the gods' protection. Scientific analysis has revealed a large number of insect fossils on Ziburi Sacred Mountain, which are of great scientific value.
Climate: Severely cold in the northwest, warm and humid in the southeast
Best time to travel: June to November
1-3 hours
free
09:00-18:00 (January 1st - December 31st, Monday to Sunday)
Birishan Ecological Scenic Area is located in the Nyingchi region of Tibet, an area known for its pristine natural beauty and ecological importance. The area is home to rich biodiversity and is an ideal destination for eco-tourism, allowing visitors to experience Tibetan culture and nature in a relatively untouched environment.
The Birishan Ecological Scenic Area is located in Nyingchi, Tibet. It can be accessed by taxi or private car from the city center of Nyingchi, which is about a 2-hour drive. There is no metro service, and public buses are limited, so taxis or hired cars are the most practical options.
The area is open year-round, but the best time to visit is from May to October when the weather is mild, and the landscapes are lush. During winter, the weather can be harsh and cold, which might make travel difficult.
The entrance fee for the Birishan Ecological Scenic Area is around 50-100 CNY. Tickets can be bought on-site at the entrance. Online booking may be available for tours, especially during peak seasons.
It is not strictly necessary to book tickets in advance, but it is recommended to do so during peak tourist seasons, especially in the summer months. Booking at least 1-2 days in advance can ensure availability and help avoid long queues.
It typically takes about 3-4 hours to explore the Birishan Ecological Scenic Area, depending on the route taken and how many activities or viewpoints you stop at along the way. For a more relaxed experience, you might want to spend the whole day here.
The must-see highlights include the picturesque valleys, towering mountains, and pristine rivers. The natural trails provide beautiful views of Tibetan forests and are a great spot for photography. The area's diverse wildlife, including rare species, is also a major highlight.
Guided tours are available and are typically conducted in Mandarin. Some guides may offer English-language services, but it's less common. Audio guides may be available in select languages, but it’s best to check availability before your visit.
The best photography spots include the mountain passes offering panoramic views, riversides with lush greenery, and the dense forests of Birishan. Sunrise and sunset offer the most stunning lighting for capturing the landscape.
A recommended itinerary includes starting at the main entrance and hiking up to the higher viewpoints to enjoy panoramic views. Then, visit the forests, rivers, and valleys. For those interested in local culture, visiting a nearby Tibetan village is also highly recommended.
Night visits or light shows are not commonly available at Birishan Ecological Scenic Area. However, the area is peaceful and quiet at night, which makes it ideal for stargazing if you’re staying nearby.
The area can get crowded during the summer months and during Chinese holidays. The least crowded times are during the early morning or late afternoon on weekdays, especially in the spring or autumn months.
The area has basic facilities such as toilets, rest areas, and small shops selling snacks and souvenirs. However, there are limited options for full meals, so it’s advisable to bring your own food and water for longer visits.
The area has some uneven terrain and hiking trails, so it may not be fully accessible for elderly or disabled visitors. However, it is suitable for children if they are comfortable with moderate walks. Some areas may require assistance or extra caution.
Cash is accepted at the entrance and in the smaller shops. Mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly accepted. Credit cards are less widely accepted, so it's recommended to carry cash or use mobile payments.
There are a few small local restaurants and cafes near the scenic area, offering Tibetan food such as momo (dumplings), barley tea, and yak meat dishes. For a more extensive dining experience, it's recommended to head back to Nyingchi city.
Vegetarian options are available, mainly consisting of vegetables, grains, and local dishes like vegetable momo. Vegan and halal food options are limited but can be found in Nyingchi city.
There are a few guesthouses and hotels near Birishan Ecological Scenic Area. For more luxurious accommodations, you can find a variety of hotels in Nyingchi city, located about an hour’s drive away.
Nearby attractions include the Nyingchi Grand Canyon, the Basum Lake, and the Lulang Forest, all of which can be easily combined into a day trip from the scenic area.
There are small souvenir shops selling Tibetan handicrafts such as prayer beads, yak wool products, and traditional Tibetan clothing. Locally made teas and Tibetan herbal products are also popular items.
After visiting, the best transportation options are by taxi or hired car to Nyingchi city or to other nearby attractions. Public transportation options are limited, so private transport is the most convenient choice.
