Nala Village of Nasa Town in Guangnan County, Wenshan

Geographic Location

Nala Village (那腊村) is situated in the mountainous region of Guangnan County (广南县), within the administrative jurisdiction of Nasa Town (那洒镇) and Longwangdong Village Committee (龙汪洞村委会), approximately 30 kilometers from the Nasa Town government and about 65 kilometers from Guangnan County’s urban center.

Cultural and Historical Background

Nala Village (那腊村) is part of the historical territory of the ancient Jutian Kingdom (句町古国). The village, along with the Longwangdong Village Committee (龙汪洞村委会), was once categorized as a deeply impoverished area. In recent years, through poverty alleviation efforts and the “Beautiful Countryside” construction project, significant improvements have been made in infrastructure, leading to enhanced living conditions for the residents.

Local Customs and Traditions

The village is home to the Yi ethnic group (彝族), specifically the Hualuo subgroup (花倮), among other minority groups. The Yi people (彝族) are known for their unique cultural heritage, including traditional festivals such as the “Dragon Festival” (祭龙节), which is rich in ethnic ceremonial music and dance, reflecting the heroic spirit of ancient times. Additionally, the village is renowned for its distinctive ethnic handicrafts, local specialties, traditional clothing, and customs.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Nasa Town (那洒镇) experiences a subtropical monsoon climate with distinct seasons, characterized by abundant rainfall and sunshine. The average annual temperature is approximately 17.1°C, with an average frost-free period of about 330 days. The optimal time to visit is from May to October, when the weather is cool and suitable for outdoor activities.

Recommended Attractions, Visiting Duration, and Admission Fees

  • Nala Village (那腊村): Visitors can experience the traditional Yi culture and handicrafts. Recommended visit duration: half a day. Admission: free.
  • Nearby Attractions: Guima Village (贵马村) in Nasa Town (那洒镇) is also noteworthy, offering insights into local ethnic culture, including the copper drum scarf dance.

Transportation

  • Public Transport: Take a bus from Guangnan County (广南县) to Nasa Town (那洒镇), approximately 1.5 hours’ journey, then transfer to local transport or walk to Nala Village (那腊村).
  • Self-Drive: From Guangnan County (广南县), drive along the local roads to Nasa Town (那洒镇), then proceed to Nala Village (那腊村), covering a total distance of about 65 kilometers.

Local Cuisine

  • Yi Ethnic Cuisine (彝族): Sample traditional dishes such as Baha Chicken (岜夯鸡) and Dragon Festival Cake (祭龙粑).
  • Farmhouse Meals: Local eateries offer fresh vegetables and poultry.

Shopping

  • Ethnic Handicrafts: Purchase traditional Yi clothing, embroidery, and other unique handicrafts.
  • Local Specialties: Products like oil tea (油茶) and Eight-Treasure Tribute Rice (八宝贡米) are popular.

Accommodation

  • Homestays: Experience local culture by staying in Yi ethnic village accommodations.
  • County Hotels: Various hotels are available in Guangnan County (广南县) for lodging.

Travel Tips

  • Respect Local Customs: When visiting and participating in cultural activities, please respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Environmental Protection: While touring natural scenic areas, be mindful of environmental conservation and avoid littering.

Suggested Itinerary

  • Day 1: Arrive in Guangnan County (广南县), check into a hotel, then proceed to Nasa Town (那洒镇) and visit Nala Village (那腊村) to explore the Yi ethnic village and experience its culture.
  • Day 2: Visit nearby Guima Village (贵马村) or other surrounding villages to further understand the local ethnic culture.

Nala Village (那腊村) offers a rich tapestry of ethnic charm and cultural heritage. Here, visitors can experience the hospitality of the Yi people (彝族), appreciate unique natural landscapes, and immerse themselves in a vibrant cultural atmosphere. May your journey be filled with joy and unforgettable memories.