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The Niyang River is a very beautiful river, a tributary of the Yarlung Zangbo River. In Tibetan, a river is called "qu" and a lake is called "cuo", so Tibetans also call it Niyangqu.
The car went east along the Lhasa River Valley, gradually gaining altitude, and then crossed the Mila Pass at an altitude of 5,013 meters, and continued eastward to enter the Niyang River Valley. Mila Mountain is the watershed between the Lhasa River and the Niyang River.
The Niyang River boasts a scenic spot called the "Middle Stream Pillar." Resembling a square seal with a shackle, the rock, about the size of a villa, stands in the center of the Niyang River's rapids. As the river crashes against the boulder, waves surge forth, tumbling and surging as it races away. Tourists disembark here to gaze in awe and take photos.
Tourists have two opinions on this huge rock in the water. Some say it is a true pillar of support, standing firm in the face of turbulent waves. Others say it is blocking the current and is out of touch with the times.
Zhongliuzhu is located in the middle reaches of the Niyang River on the Sichuan-Tibet Highway. It is the largest canyon of the Niyang River, with high mountains, deep valleys and turbulent rivers. A huge rock stands in the river with its back against Shenfo Mountain. It is said that this huge rock was the seat of Gongzun Demu, the patron saint of Gongbu area, when he practiced.
In spring, peach blossoms bloom along the riverbank; in autumn, the shrubs and trees on the riverbank turn golden.
There are many historical and cultural sites along the way, including the famous Bonri Holy Mountain, Daze Temple, Nichi Ancient Show, Bonri Holy Spring, the thousand-year-old ancient Sang King, the Tomb of the Tibetan King, etc.
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The Niyang River is a tributary of the Yarlung Tsangpo (Brahmaputra) River and holds ecological and cultural significance in Tibet. It has been essential for local agriculture, Tibetan settlements, and spiritual practices, often regarded as sacred in local traditions.
Located in Nyingchi, southeastern Tibet, the Niyang River is accessible from Nyingchi City via taxi or private car. Trekking along certain sections is popular, but public transport is limited in remote areas.
Most river access points and natural areas are free, though some guided tours or adventure activities may have fees payable offline.
Advance booking is recommended only for rafting, guided tours, or accommodation nearby, usually a few days ahead.
1–2 days for a river-based adventure or hiking experience; longer stays are recommended for trekking and exploring nearby villages.
Local guides are available, primarily in Chinese and Tibetan, sometimes English. Audio guides are generally not provided.
Night visits are possible for camping but no formal light shows exist. Special guided eco-tours may be arranged upon request.
The river is generally not crowded, with peak visits during weekends or summer holidays. Weekdays are quieter for hiking or rafting.
Cash (Chinese Yuan) is preferred in villages and for local services; cards are accepted only in limited hotels or tour operators.
Local Tibetan restaurants in villages along the river, serving traditional food like barley porridge, yak meat dishes, and butter tea. Small cafes exist near main access points.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available (e.g., Tibetan noodles, vegetables), though halal certification is rare; local Tibetan cuisine is generally meat-based.
