Live Your Best Lives
Located along National Highway 318 between Gongbujiangda County and Bayi Town, adjacent to the Niyang River, Xiuba Castle is an ancient military fortress nestled into the mountainside. Originally constructed in the late Tang Dynasty, it boasts a history of over 1,000 years. Also known as a Rongbao (a military fortress), or what are commonly referred to as a beacon tower, Xiuba Castle is the largest and best-preserved of the complex. Today, abandoned over the centuries, Xiuba Castle stands as a ruin. Its five towering fortresses, surrounded by stone houses, create a desolate yet imposing presence at the foot of the mountain.
Plateau mountain climate; suitable for all seasons
Xiuba Castle Group; 2 hours
Adult ticket: 100 yuan; Child ticket: 70 yuan for children between 1.1m and 1.4m tall, free for those under 1.1m; Senior ticket: 70 yuan for those over 60 years old with senior ticket; 70 yuan for military officers and teachers with ID
8:00-19:00
Xiuba Millennium Castle is a historically significant site located in Nyingchi, Tibet. Built over a thousand years ago, it served as a strategic military stronghold and a residence for local Tibetan rulers. The castle represents the architectural and cultural prowess of Tibet during its medieval period, offering a glimpse into the region's feudal history and the Tibetan way of life. It is also a symbol of the Tibetan people's resilience and their deep connection to the land.
Xiuba Millennium Castle is located in the Nyingchi area of Tibet, which is accessible via a 6–7 hour drive from Lhasa. To reach the castle, the best way is by taxi or private vehicle. There are no metro or bus services directly to the site due to its remote location. Walking is not a feasible option due to the distance and terrain.
Xiuba Millennium Castle is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and summer months (April to September), when the weather is mild, and the surrounding landscape is lush and vibrant. It’s recommended to avoid visiting during the winter months due to cold weather and heavy snowfall.
The entrance fee for Xiuba Millennium Castle is approximately 60–80 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. It is advisable to carry cash as online ticketing services are not available for this attraction. Some travel agencies may offer ticket packages for guided tours.
It is not mandatory to book tickets in advance for Xiuba Millennium Castle, as it is not overly crowded. However, during peak tourist seasons, it is recommended to book your tickets a day or two in advance if you want to secure a spot for a guided tour.
To fully explore Xiuba Millennium Castle and its surroundings, plan to spend at least 2–3 hours. This includes time for a guided tour, exploration of the castle grounds, and photography. If you plan to visit nearby Tibetan villages, allocate additional time.
Guided tours are available in both Mandarin and English. These tours provide detailed information about the history of the castle and its significance. Audio guides are not offered, but the guided tours are a great way to learn about the site's history and cultural relevance.
Start your visit with a walk around the exterior walls of the castle for views of the landscape. Then, explore the interior of the castle, where you can learn about its history. Afterward, take a walk through the nearby natural areas to get a sense of the surrounding environment. If available, a guide can provide context at various stops.
Currently, there are no night visits, light shows, or special tours available at Xiuba Millennium Castle. However, the site is beautiful at dawn and dusk, and you can capture stunning photos during these hours. The castle is well-lit at night but remains closed after 5:00 PM.
Xiuba Millennium Castle is not heavily crowded, but it sees more visitors during weekends and holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit on weekdays or during off-peak seasons, such as late autumn or early spring. Early mornings or late afternoons are also ideal times to visit.
There are basic facilities at Xiuba Millennium Castle, including toilets and rest areas. However, food and drink options are limited on-site, so it’s advisable to bring your own water and snacks. There are no major shops, but small souvenir stalls may be available near the entrance.
The castle is not fully accessible for elderly or disabled visitors due to its terrain and the number of stairs required to access the upper levels. Children will enjoy exploring the lower areas, but supervision is needed on the upper levels. It’s recommended to be mindful of the uneven surfaces around the site.
Cash is the primary method of payment at Xiuba Millennium Castle. Credit cards and mobile payments are rarely accepted, so it’s important to carry sufficient cash for tickets and any small purchases.
There are no restaurants or cafes inside the castle grounds. However, you can find local restaurants in the nearby Nyingchi city, offering a variety of Tibetan and Chinese cuisine. It’s advisable to have a meal before or after your visit to the castle.
Many of the local restaurants in Nyingchi offer vegetarian and halal food options, given the region's Tibetan and Muslim communities. Vegetarian and vegan dishes made from local ingredients are widely available in the area.
There are several hotels in Nyingchi, ranging from budget accommodations to more luxurious options. You can also find guesthouses offering traditional Tibetan hospitality. It’s best to book accommodations in Nyingchi as the castle is located outside the main city.
There are small souvenir shops near the entrance to the castle, offering Tibetan handicrafts, jewelry, traditional garments, and textiles. Typical souvenirs include prayer beads, Tibetan carpets, and locally made jewelry.
After visiting the castle, you can continue your trip by taxi or private car. For those wishing to explore nearby natural attractions, renting a car or booking a guided tour is recommended. Local buses and taxis are available in Nyingchi for further exploration of the region.
