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Nanjie Luo means "a place for grazing cattle and sheep" in the Lisu language. It is located in the "Three Parallel Rivers" area of Weixi County, Shangri-La, Yunnan, which is a World Heritage Site. It is a sacred place that has not been fully developed today and is a place that few people have set foot in or even heard of.
Weixi County is located within the Three Parallel Rivers World Heritage Site, bordered by the Jinsha River to the east and the Nu River to the west. The Lancang River runs through the county. The Biluo and Baima Snow Mountains stand to the east and west, forming the world-famous Lancang River Grand Canyon.
Nanjieluo boasts nine lakes and one mountain, but due to its pristine condition, only one mountain road leads to the first lake. After navigating 42 muddy turns, you'll reach this first lake, Xingyue Lake. A short hike up from Xingyue Lake reveals numerous lakes, large and small. Some are dry, but the remaining lakes resemble a piece of jade embedded in the mountains, a truly stunning sight from afar.
The altitude here is high and the temperature is low. Even in midsummer, green vegetation still coexists with the snow-capped mountains in the distance. In autumn, the colors are even richer, with distinct layers of red, yellow and green.
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Nan Jie Luo is a historic street in Zhongdian (Shangri-La), Yunnan, showcasing traditional Tibetan architecture, culture, and crafts. It serves as a cultural and commercial hub where visitors can experience the lifestyle, traditions, and local art of the Tibetan community.
Nan Jie Luo is located in the old town of Zhongdian (Shangri-La), Yunnan. Visitors can reach it by taxi or local buses from Shangri-La city center. The street is pedestrian-friendly and best explored on foot.
The street is open all day. The best times to visit are morning and late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy optimal lighting for photography. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather.
Access to Nan Jie Luo is free. Some attractions, museums, or exhibitions along the street may have separate tickets, which can typically be purchased on-site.
Advance booking is generally not required for the street itself. For specific museums or performances, booking a few days in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons.
2–4 hours are sufficient to explore the street, visit shops, and enjoy the cultural atmosphere.
Guided walking tours are available in Chinese and sometimes English through local travel agencies. Audio guides are rare.
Night visits are possible; the street is lit and lively in the evening. Some cultural performances or night markets may be available on certain days.
It can be crowded during weekends and holidays. Weekdays and early mornings are the least crowded times.
Basic facilities include public toilets, cafes, restaurants, and small rest areas along the street. Shops and stalls provide food and drinks.
The street is mostly pedestrian-friendly but may have uneven surfaces and stairs in some areas. It is moderately accessible for elderly and children; wheelchair access may be limited in certain sections.
Both cash and mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are widely accepted. Some small vendors may only take cash.
Several Tibetan and Yunnan-style restaurants and cafes are located along Nan Jie Luo, offering local dishes, tea houses, and coffee shops.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in some restaurants. Halal options are limited but can be found in specific Tibetan Muslim eateries.
Multiple guesthouses, boutique hotels, and mid-range accommodations are within walking distance in the old town of Zhongdian.
Souvenir shops sell Tibetan handicrafts, prayer flags, jewelry, thangka paintings, and local snacks.
Walking is ideal within the old town. For destinations outside Zhongdian, taxis, local buses, or private car hires are convenient options.
