Live Your Best Lives
At The First Folk Village in Tibet, visitors can explore traditional Tibetan architecture, enjoy cultural performances, and learn about local customs and crafts. The village offers opportunities to interact with locals, try Tibetan food, and participate in various cultural activities like yak riding and archery.
The First Tibetan Folk Village is located in Gonggong Village, Bayi Town, Bayi District, Nyingchi City, 1.5 kilometers from the town, at an altitude of 2,900 meters. Opened in December 2006, it was later reorganized and acquired by Guangdong China Travel Service, transforming the village into a multifunctional Tibetan cultural village integrating leisure, entertainment, dining, and experiences. Nestled against the mountainside, the village features a patchwork of Tibetan-style houses, creating a harmonious blend of natural and man-made elements. The scenic area also includes the renowned "Millennium Walnut King," as well as cultural attractions such as "Fragrant Tsampa," "Ancient Gods and Buddhas," and "Auspicious Mani."
Plateau mountain climate; suitable for all seasons
Fragrant Tsampa, Ancient Gods and Buddhas, Auspicious Mani, etc.; 2-3 hours
free
09:00-18:00
The First Folk Village in Tibet showcases the rich culture and heritage of the Tibetan people. It is designed to preserve traditional Tibetan lifestyles and architecture, offering a glimpse into the region's ancient customs, folklore, and crafts.
Located in Nyingchi, Tibet, the village is accessible by car or taxi from the city center. There is no metro in this region, but bus services are available for visitors. It is a scenic area, so walking is also an option once you arrive nearby.
The First Folk Village is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is from May to October when the weather is milder, and many cultural events take place.
The entrance fee for The First Folk Village is approximately 60-80 CNY. Tickets can be bought at the entrance or through local travel agencies. Online bookings may also be available through some tourism websites.
It is not mandatory to book tickets in advance, but it is recommended during peak seasons (May to October) to avoid long lines. Booking a few days in advance is ideal for busy periods.
Allow around 2-3 hours to fully explore the village, enjoy the cultural performances, and visit the surrounding areas. If you plan to take part in additional activities, such as yak riding, you may need extra time.
The main highlights include the traditional Tibetan homes, the cultural performances showcasing Tibetan music and dance, and the handicraft exhibits. The village also offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and rivers.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and Tibetan. Some English-speaking guides may be available for foreign tourists, but it’s best to inquire ahead. Audio guides may also be available in some languages upon request.
The best photography spots are near the traditional houses, where you can capture the essence of Tibetan life, and from the hillside, where you can get a panoramic view of the village and its surroundings.
Start by visiting the traditional Tibetan homes to understand local architecture, then head towards the performance area for cultural shows. Afterward, explore the craft markets and take in the views from higher ground. End the visit by relaxing in the village's scenic spots.
Night visits and light shows are not available at The First Folk Village. The village is a daytime attraction, and cultural performances take place during the day. However, the surrounding area offers a peaceful atmosphere for evening walks.
The village can get crowded during public holidays and summer months. The least crowded times are typically early mornings on weekdays, particularly during the off-peak months of winter and spring.
The village has basic facilities including toilets, rest areas, and food stalls offering Tibetan snacks and tea. There are small souvenir shops selling local handicrafts and Tibetan products.
The village is accessible for children and elderly visitors, though some areas may have uneven terrain. It’s advisable for disabled visitors to check ahead for specific accessibility options, as not all areas may be wheelchair-friendly.
While cash is widely accepted, mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are also commonly used. It’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases or in case of connectivity issues.
There are small Tibetan-style cafes inside the village, offering traditional foods such as momo (dumplings) and butter tea. For more dining options, visitors can head to nearby towns or Nyingchi city center.
Vegetarian food options are available, especially in the form of Tibetan-style vegetable dishes. Vegan and halal options may be limited, but it’s worth asking the local vendors for specific preferences.
There are a few guesthouses and boutique hotels in Nyingchi, which is around a 30-minute drive from the village. More luxurious accommodations are available in the city center, offering a range of options for different budgets.
Nearby attractions include the Basum Lake, known for its beautiful scenery, and the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world. Both can be visited in a day trip from the village.
Yes, there are souvenir shops selling traditional Tibetan handicrafts, including thangka paintings, woolen scarves, and jewelry. Local Tibetan items such as prayer beads and Tibetan musical instruments are also popular.
After visiting the village, taxis and local buses are the best options to continue your trip. Private tours can be arranged for further exploration of the surrounding areas, including scenic spots like Basum Lake and the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon.
