Naidong County

Introducing Naidong County

Naidong County, which means "in front of the tip of Elephant Trunk Hill" in Tibetan, is located in Shannan City in the central and southern part of the Tibet Autonomous Region, in the southern part of the Gangdise Mountains and the middle reaches of the Yarlung Zangbo River. It is the seat of the Shannan Municipal People's Government.

The historical stories in Tibetan history books such as "there is no earlier scripture than Bangong Qiagga, no earlier place than Yalong, no earlier farmland than Sarisodang, no earlier house than Yongbulakang, and no earlier king than Nyatri Zamp" all took place in Naidong.

The natural landscapes such as snow-capped mountains and glaciers, rivers and lakes, pastures and riverbanks, and valleys in the area complement the cultural landscapes such as numerous historical and cultural sites and unique folk customs, together forming the mysterious, ancient, magnificent, unique, influential and infectious Yalong culture.

Climate and best time to travel

Nadong District belongs to the plateau temperate semi-arid monsoon climate zone, with large temperature differences between day and night. The rainy season is from June to September, and the winter and spring are mostly dry.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Changzhu Temple

Located on the southern foot of Gongbu Ri Mountain on the east bank of the Yalong River in Shannan, approximately 2 kilometers from Naidong County, this Gelugpa monastery was built upon the marriage of Princess Wencheng and Songtsen Gampo, who is said to have resided there for spiritual practice. After the monastery's initial construction, Songtsen Gampo and Princess Wencheng would sometimes visit from Lhasa during the winter months, leading local residents to refer to Changzhu Monastery as Princess Wencheng's "Winter Palace." The monastery still houses many relics from their time.

Yongbulakang

It is the first palace in Tibetan history, with a history of more than 2,100 years. It is located on the Zhaxi Ciri Mountain, 11 km southeast of Zedang Town. It was named because the mountain resembles the hind legs of a doe, and the temple was built on the deer legs: "Yongbu" is a doe, "La" is the hind legs, and "Kang" is the palace.

Recommended play time: 1 day

---

Most Popular FAQs for Naidong County

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Naidong County holds historical significance as a center of Tibetan culture and religion, with several ancient monasteries and temples. It is also a strategic location along the trade route between Tibet and other regions, contributing to its unique cultural fusion.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Naidong County is located in the Shannan Prefecture of Tibet, near the Himalayan mountains. To get there, you can travel to Lhasa and then take a bus or taxi to Naidong. The region is accessible by road, and it’s best to hire a local guide for navigating the area.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The region itself doesn’t have set opening hours, but the best time to visit Naidong County is from May to September when the weather is mild and the roads are accessible. Avoid visiting during the harsh winter months due to snowfall and road closures.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Most attractions in Naidong County, such as monasteries and temples, do not have an entrance fee. However, some specific sites may charge a small fee for maintenance or special exhibits. Tickets can generally be purchased on-site, and advance bookings are not typically required.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is not necessary to book tickets in advance for most attractions in Naidong County. However, for guided tours or visits during major Tibetan festivals, it’s advisable to book a few days in advance to secure a spot.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A full exploration of Naidong County, including visits to local monasteries, villages, and scenic areas, can take 2 to 3 days. If you plan to trek or visit remote locations, additional time may be needed.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The must-see highlights in Naidong include the Yumbulagang Monastery, ancient Tibetan villages, and the stunning views of the Himalayan foothills. The lush valleys and terraced fields provide picturesque landscapes for photography.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Naidong County, with some guides speaking English and Mandarin. Audio guides are not commonly available, but hiring a local guide is recommended for a deeper cultural experience.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Great photography spots in Naidong County include the panoramic views of the Himalayan mountains, the serene Yumbulagang Monastery, and the picturesque Tibetan villages. The surrounding landscape, especially at sunrise or sunset, offers stunning backdrops for photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the Yumbulagang Monastery, followed by a walk through a traditional Tibetan village. Spend time trekking around the surrounding hills and valleys, and finish the day with a visit to local markets to experience Tibetan culture. If you have extra time, take a short trek in the foothills of the Himalayas.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are not typically available in Naidong County, but special tours may be organized during Tibetan festivals, where cultural performances and rituals are conducted in the evenings.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Naidong County is relatively peaceful, especially compared to other tourist hotspots in Tibet. The least crowded times to visit are during the off-peak seasons, such as the winter months (December to February), when tourism slows down.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities like toilets, drinking water, and rest areas are available near major attractions. Shops selling souvenirs, snacks, and local Tibetan crafts are common in villages and near monasteries. However, it’s advisable to carry your own food and water for more remote areas.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Naidong County’s terrain is mountainous and can be challenging, so it may not be ideal for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can visit, but caution is advised in remote or rugged areas. It’s best to consult with a local guide about accessibility options.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly used in Naidong County, and mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay may be accepted in some areas. Credit cards are not widely accepted, so it’s important to carry cash, especially when visiting remote areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are small local restaurants and cafes offering Tibetan dishes such as momos, thukpa, and butter tea. For more variety, you can find restaurants in the nearby towns or in Lhasa, which offer a wider selection of Tibetan and Chinese food.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are common in Tibetan cuisine, especially in monasteries. Vegan and halal options may be limited, but they can be found in larger towns like Lhasa or through specialized restaurants catering to these diets.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Basic guesthouses and inns are available in Naidong County, but more luxurious accommodations are located in Lhasa. It’s best to book your stay in advance during peak seasons to ensure availability.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Tsetang area, home to the Samye Monastery, one of Tibet’s oldest Buddhist sites. The city of Lhasa, with its Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple, is also easily reachable by road for a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops in Naidong County offer Tibetan handicrafts such as prayer flags, thangkas (traditional paintings), prayer beads, and Tibetan jewelry. Local textiles and woolen items like shawls and carpets are also popular souvenirs.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

To continue your trip, you can take a taxi or bus to nearby areas like Lhasa or Tsetang. Public buses and taxis are the most common means of transportation in the region. If traveling further, Lhasa’s train station and airport offer connections to other cities in Tibet and mainland China.