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Nujiang-a rare and little-known beauty

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The exquisite natural landscape of the Nujiang River. [Photo: sohu.com]

Villages of ethnic minority groups lie quietly amid breathtaking scenery. [Photo: sohu.com]

Lying in the valley of the Hengduan Mountains in northwest Hengduan Mountains, Nujiang is made up of lofty mountains and roaring rivers.

The Nujiang River has its source on the southern slope of the Tanggula Mountain range in the Tibet Autonomous Region. Flowing from north to south with a total length of 2,800 kilometers, the river covers a drainage area of more than 300,000 square kilometers.

With a huge water discharge, the torrents of Nujiang pour down in a never-ending waterfall, carving out one of the world's most outstanding gorges, the Nujiang Grand Canyon. It is regarded as the second-largest gorge in the world after the Grand Canyon in the United States.

Because of its huge drop and rapid torrents, the river appears extraordinarily spectacular when it flows through the gorge. The charming scenery here is unknown to many because of its remoteness, making it more mysterious than other natural spots.

Enclosed by cliffs on both sides most of the time, the river empties into a big semicircle bay in Dala, called Nujiang First Bay. It is characterized by its U- shape from east to west, where a small island forms. When the sun rises, the cloud-enshrouded village and houses appear blurry.

Because of the high mountains and fast flowing waters, there is no bridge connecting the two sides of the river, only iron chains. This dangerous and thrilling way to cross the river has been included in regular tour packages for adventure travelers.

Nujiang Prefecture was the hometown of many primitive tribes. Even now, more than a dozen ethnic minorities live along the Nujiang River region, including the Lisu, Nu and Drung people.

The villages of the Lisu and Nu people are situated halfway up the mountain. The view is so enrapturing that a stroll through them will make your feel as if you are walking on clouds. Ethnic villagers there are simple, honest and hospitable. They are good at singing and dancing. Their colorful costumes and unique customs and culture will give you an unforgettable experience.

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