After breakfast, we set off to explore Nyingchi – a region often described as the “Switzerland of Tibet.” And today, it showed us exactly why.
This post is part of our 13-day Tibet journey, documenting each day of our journey across Nyingchi, Lhasa, Everest Base Camp, and the Qinghai–Tibet Railway. Read the full itinerary here.
Giant Cypress Nature Reserve & the King of Cypress
Our first stop was the Giant Cypress Nature Reserve, home to the legendary King of Cypress – believed to be one of the oldest trees in the world. This ancient giant is estimated to be over 3,000 years old (the sign stated 3,210 years as of 2022)
Towering above the forest floor, this ancient giant has borne witness to centuries of wind, snow, and passing pilgrims. Revered as a holy tree by Tibetan pilgrims, it is customary for them to walk clockwise around its massive trunk in prayer, seeking blessings and spiritual protection. There is something deeply humbling about standing beneath the giant tree of Nyingchi
Sejila Scenic Area & Namcha Barwa (Hidden by Snow)
We continued by coach to the breathtaking Sejila Scenic Area, hoping to catch a glimpse of Namcha Barwa, the world’s 15th tallest mountain at 7,787 metres above sea level.
The views on the way was amazing. Lush greenery, snow-capped peaks and flowing rivers.
Upon reaching the Sejila Scenic Area, everything was covered in white. It’s snowing!! … in autumn.
When we reached Sejila, visibility was near zero. Nope no Namcha Barwa in sight. Nevertheless I was happy to see snow – seeing snow for my first time.
And yes, being in China, we do what all tourists do: 打卡. Taking photos of and/or with the signs. They are everywhere!
Lulang Forest in the Mist
Next, we headed to Lulang Forest, expecting to see lush greenery set against snow-capped mountains. Instead, what greeted us was something entirely different – the forest was shrouded in thick mist.
According to our guide, in his years of experiences, this was only the second time he had ever seen Lulang Forest like this. And honestly, I couldn’t complain.
The mist transformed the landscape into something straight out of a traditional Chinese ink painting – mysterious, serene, and incredibly atmospheric.
Riverside Lunch & Unexpected October Rain
Lunch was at a local village restaurant right by the riverbank, with beautiful views.
Until the rain started. And it didn’t stop…. Both our guide and bus driver commented on how unusual it was to still have rain in October. The downpour lingered for the rest of the day, and honestly, the rest of the itinerary after lunch felt a little meh.
Niyang River Valley: A Misty Mini Switzerland
After lunch, we stopped at the Niyang River Valley viewing platform, where the scenery promised a glimpse of a mini Switzerland. Even under grey skies and rain, it was easy to see why. Traditional Tibetan villages nestled at the base of snowy peaks, framed by ancient forests along the riverbanks, with cows and sheep dotting the grasslands. The misty rain added a soft, almost dreamlike layer to the view, and despite the damp, it was still a lovely sight – peaceful and very Tibetan.
Yani National Wetlands Park & Glass Observation Deck
Our final stop for the day was Yani National Wetlands Park, where we were postponed from yesterday. It was still raining when we got there (have been raining for the entire day!) but it didn’t hide the beauty of this high-altitude wetland with rippling glacier waters and lush vegetation.
After Yani Wetlands, we also visited the Yani glass observation deck. To be honest, nothing much to shout about. The views were pretty much the same as before and in comparison to the glass observation deck at Balagezong (clinging to a cliff and looking straight into a canyon), this one felt a little underwhelming – it looks down onto the pavement below.
Beautiful Nyingchi (despite the rain)
Rain, snow, mist – the weather threw everything at us today. But despite all, Nyingchi was truly beautiful. From ancient trees and snow-capped mountains to tranquil valleys and living traditions, it is a gentle reminder of just how breathtaking nature can be even with the unforeseen weather.
Follow our trip as we say goodbye to beautiful Nyingchi tomorrow and head to Lhasa – the capital city of Tibet.
Continue reading: Day 4: From Nyingchi to Lhasa via Basong Lake