The First Bend of Nujiang River in Gongshan, Nujiang

Why is First Bend of Nujiang River So Special?

The First Bend-of Nujiang River in Gongshan Nujiang

When flowing near Ridan village of Bingzhongluo in Gongshan County (贡山), the river encircles a small area of land while turning 180 degrees in only a few hundred meters, with beautiful high cliffs providing a vantage point for sightseers. The river surface has an elevation of 1710 meters above sea level, with a relative fall over 1000 meters compared to the mountains along the riverbanks. Looking from above, the No. 1 turn of the Nu River presents a U-shaped arc with steep terrain and an extraordinarily magnificent scene. The entire scenario has a thunderbolt momentum and is nominated as a national-level Grade 1 attraction. There is a village in the middle of the Bay called Kantong Village (坎桶村).

How is the First Bend of Nujiang River Formed?

Originally, the Nu River (怒江) winds down the mountains and valleys of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau from north to south. However, when it flows near the Ridan village of Bingzhongluo Township (丙中洛), the river’s course shifts from north-south to east-west due to the barrier of cliffs. After flowing more than 300 meters, the river is blocked by Danla Mountain (丹拉山), forcing the river to make a sharp U-turn from west to east. This creates an arc-shaped semi-circular path, shifting from north to west and then to south. Therefore, the Nu River changes its course three times, forming three interconnected abrupt turns, making it the No. 1 turn of the Nu River.

How to Get There

By Bus

There are several ways to get to the Nujiang Grand Canyon (怒江大峡谷). From Kunming (昆明), you can catch a bus to various places in the gorge.

Mt. Gaoligong on the west bank of the grand Nujiang Canyon

Kunming to Fugong:

There is at least one sleeper bus that goes all the way to Fugong (福贡) in the middle of the gorge. The trip takes about 14 hours (710km).

Kunming to Liuku:

Liuku (六库) is 580km from Kunming. Express and sleeper buses depart daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, taking approximately 13 hours. Buses also run from Dali (大理) (8 hours) and Baoshan (保山) (4 hours) to Liuku.

Kunming to Gongshan:

A sleeper bus departs daily from Xiyuan Bus Station at 18:00, taking about 18 hours to cover the 830km journey to Gongshan (贡山).

Gongshan to Bingzhongluo:

Bingzhongluo

It is about 45km from Gongshan to Bingzhongluo (丙中洛), with irregular shuttle buses providing transfer services.

By Car Rental

Renting a car to visit Nujiang Grand Canyon is more convenient. Yunnan Exploration Travel can provide the service with good vehicles and skilled drivers.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Nujiang Grand Canyon is from October to April, particularly in spring when the mountain flowers are in full bloom. During the off-season or holidays, people engage in activities like boating, taking overhead cable cars over the river, or singing and dancing. The creek remains still and soundless, enclosed by trees and hidden from the eyes of men.

Attractions Nearby

Shimen Pass (石门关)

Located north of Bingzhongluo, Shimen Pass is formed by two cliffs that rise steeply along the riverbank, creating a large stone pass that is 500 meters high and 200 meters wide. This stunning landscape, lying on a beautiful slope along the river, is called "Nayiqiang" by the locals. It is the essential route into Yunnan-Tibet.

Kantong Village (坎桶村)

Kantong Village is located in the center of the First Bend of the Nujiang River. It is a small village inhabited by the Nu people, and "Kantong" means a place of long bamboo. The village is known for its peach trees, and every spring, the peach blossoms fill the area, earning it the nickname "Peach Blossom Island." The village is only accessible via a suspension bridge.

Kantong Village and Peach Blossom Island in Gongshan County, Nujiang

Puhua Temple (普化寺)

Puhua Temple is a Tibetan Buddhist temple that holds significant cultural importance in the area. Inside the temple, there are 11 frescoes and 2,000 "Songji" (prayer flags).

Puhua-Temple-in-Bingzhongluo-Nujiang

Useful Travel Tips

Geological Hazard Prevention

The Gongshan area (贡山) is prone to landslides and mudslides during the rainy season (June to September). It is essential to monitor weather forecasts before traveling and avoid traveling during adverse weather conditions. If driving, be sure to carry snow chains, especially for inexperienced drivers. Avoid challenging routes such as "Bingchacha" (饼查查), which can be hazardous.

Traffic Control

Dulongjiang

Certain roads, such as those in the Dulongjiang area (独龙江), require advanced reservations and have time restrictions. Some routes may be closed in June. In the county town, many streets are one-way, and parking can be difficult, so it is recommended to travel during off-peak times to avoid congestion.

Scenic Area Regulations

Opening Hours

During peak seasons, such as the May Day holiday (五一), most scenic spots open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It is recommended to arrive before 8:30 AM to avoid large crowds. Be prepared for a 20-minute wait at popular viewpoints in the morning for photo opportunities. The afternoon offers fewer crowds, though the lighting may be less favorable for photos.

Area Restrictions

Visitors are strictly prohibited from entering undeveloped areas, such as wild scenic spots and nature reserves. Violators may face penalties. Hiking is allowed only along designated trails, and visitors should stay away from cliffs and fast-moving waters.

Cultural and Ecological Preservation

Respect Local Customs

When photographing the villages of the Lisu (傈僳族) and Dulong (独龙族) ethnic groups, always ask for permission from the locals beforehand. Avoid touching religious objects like prayer flags and mani stones (玛尼堆).

Environmental Protection Requirements

Do not pick rare plants, such as the Saurauja (梭罗), or feed wild animals. When using fire in the wilderness, always use designated areas and follow safety guidelines.

Practical Tips

Preparation of Supplies

The prices in the scenic areas can be high, so it’s advisable to bring your own snacks. The Lisu (傈僳族) hand-grabbed rice is a local specialty and should be tried.

Communication and Connectivity

Some areas may lack cellular network coverage, so it is best to travel with companions. Download offline maps in advance to ensure you have access to navigation tools.

Guide Services

Choose a licensed travel agency or certified guide to ensure your safety and enrich your experience.