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Namling means "place of complete victory" in Tibetan, and as a place name it carries the connotation of "holy land." Located in the northeastern part of Shigatse Prefecture, on the north bank of the upper and middle reaches of the Yarlung Zangbo River, the area boasts low terrain in the south and high terrain in the north, interconnected by rivers and streams, and a pleasant climate.
The scenic spots in the county include Meiri Temple, Deqing Rebujie Temple, and the Iron Chain Bridge. Famous people in history include the 8th Dalai Lama, the 8th Panchen Lama, the 6th Panchen Lama, and the 5th Panchen Lama.
Namulin County has a typical plateau temperate semi-arid climate type, with no severe cold in winter, no extreme heat in summer, and frequent strong winds in spring.
Sewu Temple
Founded by the Tibetan Buddhist master Guru Baima Jiuna, it has a history of more than 3,000 years and is a place with ancient cultural relics. The temple is a well-known temple in the region. Its main religious activities include the famous "Zhiluo Zhida", the Monkey Year Grand Dharma Assembly, etc.
Namulin County is located in Tibet’s Shigatse region and is significant for its blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. The county is home to several Tibetan monasteries, and it holds historical importance in Tibetan Buddhism. The county offers a glimpse into the traditional Tibetan way of life and is known for its stunning landscapes, which include high-altitude lakes and mountains.
Namulin County is located in the Shigatse region of Tibet, around 6-7 hours by road from Lhasa. The best way to reach Namulin County is by taxi or bus from Shigatse or Lhasa, as there is no metro system in this area. Traveling by car offers the flexibility of exploring scenic spots along the way.
There are no specific opening hours for Namulin County itself, as it is a rural area, but the best time to visit is from May to October. This period offers the most favorable weather conditions with milder temperatures and clear skies for outdoor activities. Winter months can be very cold with heavy snow, which might affect accessibility.
Namulin County does not charge an entrance fee. However, certain monasteries and cultural sites in the area may have small entrance fees, which can be paid onsite. Tickets for these locations are generally available on the day of your visit.
Booking tickets in advance is generally not required for Namulin County itself. However, if you are planning to visit specific monasteries or events during peak seasons, it is advisable to check if advanced bookings are necessary. It is best to inquire locally or at your accommodation.
To fully explore Namulin County, a stay of 2-3 days is recommended. This will allow you to enjoy the scenic landscapes, visit the monasteries, explore local villages, and participate in cultural activities.
Guided tours are available for some monasteries and cultural sites in Namulin County. These tours are usually offered in Mandarin, Tibetan, and sometimes English. It is recommended to arrange tours in advance, especially if you are looking for an English-speaking guide.
Start by visiting the local monasteries in the morning, followed by a hike in the surrounding mountains or a visit to nearby lakes in the afternoon. Explore the villages to experience traditional Tibetan life in the evening. If you are visiting during a festival, consider attending local performances for an authentic cultural experience.
There are no specific night visits or light shows in Namulin County. However, certain monasteries or events may offer cultural performances or special tours during festivals. It is best to check in advance for any special events if you are visiting during a festival period.
Namulin County is not typically crowded, even during peak travel seasons. The least crowded times to visit are during the off-season, particularly in late autumn and early spring, when fewer tourists travel to Tibet.
Basic facilities such as toilets, small restaurants, and shops are available in Namulin County. However, for a wider variety of dining and shopping options, it is advisable to head to Shigatse or Lhasa. Water and food can be found in local villages, but it’s a good idea to carry your own supplies for more remote areas.
While most of Namulin County is accessible for elderly and children, some of the hiking areas and remote spots may be challenging for people with mobility difficulties. It is recommended to check accessibility for specific locations before planning your visit.
Cash is the most widely accepted form of payment in Namulin County. Mobile payment methods like Alipay and WeChat Pay are available in some locations, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially if you are traveling to remote areas.
Local Tibetan restaurants offer traditional dishes such as yak meat, momos, and butter tea. Larger towns like Shigatse provide more dining options, including international cuisine.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in most Tibetan restaurants, as vegetarianism is common in Tibetan Buddhism. Halal food options are limited in rural areas but may be available in Shigatse.
Accommodations in Namulin County consist mainly of local guesthouses. For more luxury options, Shigatse or Lhasa provide international hotels such as the Shigatse Hotel or St. Regis Lhasa Resort.
Souvenir shops in Namulin County sell traditional Tibetan handicrafts, including prayer wheels, Tibetan jewelry, woolen items, and religious artifacts like Buddha statues and prayer beads.
The best way to continue your trip after visiting Namulin County is by taxi or bus back to Shigatse or Lhasa. From there, you can take a train or flight to other parts of Tibet or mainland China.