Overview

Nujiang River (怒江) in Yongde County (永德县), Lincang (临沧), Yunnan Province (云南省), is renowned for its rugged beauty and pristine natural landscapes. Flowing through the deep valleys and gorges of northwest Yunnan, the Nujiang River, also known as the Salween River (萨尔温江), is one of Asia’s last free-flowing rivers. Its course through Yongde County offers breathtaking views of towering cliffs, dense forests, and cascading waterfalls.

Geographic and Cultural Features

Yongde County, located along the Nujiang River, is characterized by its ethnic diversity, with various communities including the Lisu (傈僳), Dai (傣), Yi (彝), and Hani (哈尼) people. The area is known for its rich cultural heritage, traditional villages, and terraced fields that cascade down the mountainsides.

Yongde County is situated in the southwestern part of Yunnan Province, in the northwestern part of Lincang City, covering an area of 3,219.68 square kilometers. The county is abundant in water resources, featuring two major river systems. Apart from the Yanglang River (秧浪河), which is part of the Lancang River (澜沧江) system, the rest belong to the Nujiang River system. The main course of the Nujiang River flows for 12.5 kilometers within Yongde County, with a basin area of 6,820 square kilometers.

The Nujiang River is a major river in southwestern China. It originates from the southern foothills of the Tanggula Mountains (唐古拉山) on the Tibetan border and flows from northwest to southeast through eastern Tibet. Upon entering Yunnan Province, it shifts southward, passing through the Nujiang Lisu Autonomous Prefecture (怒江傈僳族自治州), the Baoshan Region (保山地区), and the Dehong Dai and Jingpo Autonomous Prefecture (德宏傣族景颇族自治州) before entering Myanmar and becoming the Salween River, eventually flowing into the Bay of Bengal in the Indian Ocean. The river is approximately 3,240 kilometers long, with 2,013 kilometers in China, and a total basin area of 325,000 square kilometers, with 137,800 square kilometers in China. The total runoff is approximately 70 billion cubic meters, primarily replenished by rainfall, with most occurring during the summer months.

How to Get There

To reach Nujiang River in Yongde County, you can take a bus or drive from Lincang City. The area is well-connected, and local transportation options are available.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to explore the river and surrounding areas is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities.
• What to Bring: Bring comfortable shoes for hiking, a camera to capture the stunning scenery, and perhaps a picnic to enjoy by the river.
• Activities: Engage in hiking, photography, and exploring local villages to experience the rich culture of the ethnic communities in the area.

Chinese Name: 南汀河
English Name: Nanting River in Lincang

Source: The Nanting River originates in Bosang Town, Linxiang District, Lincang City, Yunnan Province. The river flows through the middle and lower reaches of the Lancang and Nu Rivers, covering a total length of 311 kilometers. It passes through Linxiang District, Yun County, Yongde County, Zhenkang County, and Gengma County, and exits China at Qingshuihe in Gengma County, entering Myanmar. In Myanmar, the Nanting River is known as the Irrawaddy River.

Local Developments

In recent years, infrastructure such as river embankments, dams, and guardrails has been constructed along the Nanting River in Lincang City to prevent flooding. Various flowers and trees have been planted along the riverbanks, and amenities such as shaded walkways, stone benches, and fitness trails have been built. This has transformed the riverbanks into popular spots for relaxation and strolling. Visitors can enjoy the flowing water, verdant sandbanks, swaying willows, and the leisurely presence of egrets, creating a delightful experience.

Downstream Features

The lower reaches of the Nanting River offer a distinct charm compared to the urban area. The riverbanks are rich in rare flora and fauna, with over 3,000 types of valuable Chinese medicinal herbs, more than 80 types of precious flowers, and hundreds of species of valuable trees and wild animals. The area also boasts numerous historical relics and landmarks. Tea plantations, sugarcane fields, rubber forests, fruit orchards, bamboo groves, picturesque fields, and scattered ethnic villages contribute to a beautiful subtropical river valley landscape. Visitors can explore stunning natural scenery, experience thrilling cross-border rafting, and enjoy the diverse ethnic cultures and exotic flavors of the region.

Natural Resources

The riverbanks are abundant with rare and valuable plant and animal species, including over 3,000 types of medicinal herbs and more than 80 types of rare flowers. There are hundreds of valuable trees, wild birds, and beasts. The area also features many historical and cultural sites, extensive tea plantations, vast sugarcane fields, dense rubber forests, fruit orchards, and charming ethnic villages. The natural and cultural landscapes create a vibrant tropical river valley scenic area. Here, visitors can explore beautiful natural scenery, experience thrilling cross-border rafting, enjoy the diverse ethnic cultures, and savor local Dai and Wa cuisine.

Infrastructure Developments

1. Nanting River Bridge
   • In November 2023, the main span of the Nanting River Bridge project was successfully completed, laying the foundation for subsequent bridge deck paving and opening.
   • The bridge project is the first to be financed by ADB loans under the comprehensive development of infrastructure in the Lincang border economic zone. The total route length is 1,006 meters, including a 352-meter bridge with a semi-floating structure. The main span is composed of 70 meters + 140 meters + 70 meters. The bridge uses a prestressed concrete double-box structure with a beam height of 2.2 meters. The connecting road is 654 meters long. The bridge is a double-tower, three-span cable-stayed bridge, with towers 103 meters high and 11 pairs of cable stays. The road is two-way with a width of 16.5 meters and is built to Grade II highway standards.

1. Nanting River Reservoir
   • Located at the junction of Yun County and Yongde County in the upper-middle reaches of the Nanting River, the reservoir has a planned total capacity of 110 million cubic meters. Its purpose is to supply water for urban and rural life, industry, and agriculture in downstream areas and enhance flood control in Mengding Town. It is a comprehensive water management project integrating flood control, irrigation, power generation, and ecological supplementation, with a total planned investment of 4.5 billion yuan.

Scenic Spots

1. Lincang City Nanting River Ethnic Style Park
   • The Nanting River Ethnic Style Park aims to showcase the “Flower Festival” and “Bathing Festival” of the Limi people, incorporating other ethnic festivals and cultures. The park will become a vibrant place where every day feels like a festival, blending well with the city and offering a beautiful, functional, and culturally rich environment. It also includes 5,000 acres of forest to create a green ecological barrier.
2. Gengma Nanting River Scenic Area
   • Located in Gengma Dai and Wa Autonomous County, this scenic area is divided into five parts: Mengding, Jingge, Fuyin Mountain, Qingshuihe, and the Mengsheng-Qingshuihe tourism line, covering about 146 square kilometers. Highlights include the subtropical scenery of Mengding Dam, lush tropical rainforests, rare plant species, the verdant Qing Mountain and Huocao Mountain, rich ethnic culture, traditional costumes, and historic sites such as temples, white pagodas, rock paintings, and ancient human cave dwellings. The area offers opportunities for cross-border tourism and cultural exploration.

1. Gengma Nanting River Mengding Dam Governance Project
   • This project addresses a 5.46-kilometer stretch of the river, with a total embankment length of 6.861 kilometers. The estimated investment is 49.9588 million yuan. It involves constructing new embankments and drainage facilities to improve flood control standards, protecting 8,800 people and 16,300 acres of farmland. The embankment is designed to a Level 5 standard, with a ten-year flood protection capacity. The project is the final segment of the Nanting River Mengding Dam governance plan, completing a comprehensive flood control system.

Birding Travel Tips in Nanting River Area in Lincang

Birding around the Nanting River in Lincang offers a unique opportunity to explore diverse avian species in a beautiful subtropical setting. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your birdwatching experience in this region:

Best Times to Go Birdwatching

• Seasons: The best times for birding are generally during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when migratory birds pass through the region.
• Time of Day: Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for birdwatching, as birds are most active during these times.

Key Birdwatching Spots

1. Nanting River Scenic Area: This area offers diverse habitats including riverside, forested areas, and open fields, which attract a variety of bird species.
2. Gengma Area: Known for its subtropical rainforests and bamboo groves, this region can be great for spotting rare and endemic species.
3. Tea Plantations and Farmlands: These areas provide open spaces that are often frequented by a variety of birds, especially during feeding times.

Bird Species to Look For

• Endemic Species: Look out for species that are endemic to Yunnan or the wider Southeast Asian region, such as the Yunnan Nuthatch or the Gray-headed Woodpecker.
• Migratory Birds: During migration seasons, you might spot species such as the Black-winged Cuckoo-shrike or various types of warblers.

Birdwatching Equipment

• Binoculars: A good pair of binoculars (8×42 or 10×42) will help you spot birds from a distance without disturbing them.
• Field Guide: Carry a field guide specific to the birds of Yunnan or Southeast Asia to help identify different species.
• Camera: If you’re interested in photography, a camera with a zoom lens (300mm or higher) will allow you to capture detailed images of birds.

Best Practices for Birdwatching

• Respect Wildlife: Keep a respectful distance from birds and avoid making loud noises. Do not disturb nesting birds or their habitats.
• Dress Appropriately: Wear neutral-colored clothing to blend into the environment and avoid bright colors that might scare away birds.
• Be Patient: Birdwatching often requires patience and quiet observation. Stay still and wait for birds to come into view.

Local Birding Resources

• Local Guides: Consider hiring a local birding guide or joining a birdwatching tour to enhance your experience and gain insights into the best spots and species.
• Birding Groups: Connect with local or regional birdwatching groups or forums for tips, recent sightings, and additional resources.

Additional Tips

• Weather Conditions: Check the weather forecast before heading out, as heavy rain or strong winds can impact bird activity.
• Safety: Ensure you have suitable footwear and be aware of your surroundings, especially in forested or remote areas.

By following these tips, you can maximize your chances of having a rewarding and enjoyable birdwatching experience along the Nanting River in Lincang.

Chinese Name: 枯柯河
English Name: Kuke River Rafting in Baoshan and Lincang

Guke River is a tributary of the Nujiang River, also known as the Mengboluo River, named after the Guke Dam it flows through. In the Dai language, “Meng” means place, “Bo” means spring, and “Luo” means forest, which translates to “river in a large forested area.” Located in the western part of Yunnan Province, Guke River originates from the west side of Monkey Stone Karst Mountain in Laoying Township, Baoshan City. It flows south through Baoshan City and is known as Baoshan East River until it emerges after 1.3 kilometers in the southeast of Baoshan, entering Changning County. It continues south through Guke Dam and Wandiang Dam, known as Guke River and Wandiang River, and after merging with Yongkang River, it is called Mengboluo River between Yongde County and Shidian County, finally flowing southwest into the Nujiang River. It stretches 208 kilometers with a basin area of 3,550 square kilometers. The average annual flow rate is 77.4 cubic meters per second, with a maximum flow of 5.8 cubic meters per second and a minimum flow of 744 cubic meters per second. The river features alternating gorges and wide valleys and is an important irrigation water source. The lower reaches of the river are characterized by wide valleys that facilitate irrigation. Several power stations are built along the river, and its major tributaries include Yongkang River and Da Mengtong River.

The Mengboluo River is one of the significant rivers in the Nujiang River system. The Changning section is locally referred to as Guke River. The three townships it passes through are major subtropical river valley crop production areas in Changning, forming an industrial pattern of “summer grains and winter vegetables.” After the beginning of autumn, rice fields in Kejie Dam, located along the Mengboluo River in Changning County, Baoshan City, welcome the harvest season. The golden rice fields shimmer under the sunlight, creating a scene of bustling harvest with the fragrance of rice filling the air.

Kejie Hot Spring Town
Kejie Town, located in the upper reaches of the Guke River basin in the western part of Yunnan, is the first stop on the Changbao Expressway when entering Changning from Longyang District. It serves as a key transportation hub for Baoshan and Dehong traveling to Changning and Lincang. It takes only 20 minutes to travel from Longyang District to Kejie.

The Kejie River basin is known as a “natural greenhouse” and is an important base for pollution-free fruit and vegetable production in southwestern Yunnan. Kejie is also the first stop of Xu Xiake’s visit to Changning, as detailed in his travel notes.

Baoshan Changning: Cotton Tree Blossoms along Guke River
In early spring, the Guke River, located in the dry and hot river valley area of Changning County, Baoshan City, again welcomes the beautiful blooming of cotton trees. Walking through Wandiang Dam, the bright red blossoms in the lush green shadows stand out, creating a spectacular view of spring. The blooming cotton flowers resemble red clouds or fiery flames. Cotton trees are much taller than other trees and their vibrant red flowers make them a prominent feature in the spring countryside. In Dai Village Wandiang, before the flowers of other species bloom, the cotton flowers have already burst into bloom, igniting the passion of spring and creating a unique and beautiful landscape. Locals have a sense of reverence and affection for cotton flowers; not only can the blooming flowers be eaten, but the fluffy flower fibers are also collected to make pillows.

By the Guke River, young people pick up the red flowers under rows of flowering trees, take photos with their phones, and sweet smiles bloom with the flowers in the spring breeze. Nearby, elderly people collect the red blooms in bamboo baskets, while children chase after the petals in the wind, enjoying the spring breeze along with the cotton flowers.

Fruit Paradise along Guke River: Wandiang Dai Ethnic Township
Wandiang is a “gem” set along the Guke River in Changning, where the Dai ethnic group resides, and is affectionately known as Dai Village. Situated in a low-temperature river valley with a three-dimensional climate, it has high accumulated temperatures and a frost-free period, making it a natural greenhouse. From an aerial view, the Guke River (also known as Wandiang River or Mengboluo River) flows like a jade belt from north to south, passing through Wandiang Dam, crossing Chain Bridge, entering Shidian Old Town Dam, and finally joining the Nujiang River. The best viewpoint for experiencing the climatic changes and viewing Wandiang Dam is to travel east along Yao Bay Road from Yaozhen Town in Shidian.

Moringa – Sour Horn – Mango
The Guke River divides Wandiang into upper and lower dams at the steep Jiepai Mountain Gorge. The soil is deep, loose, and fertile, with excellent water, light, and heat conditions, providing the perfect environment for tropical plants to thrive.

Moringa, knifewood, phoenix-tail bamboo, palm trees, large-leaf banyan, small-leaf banyan, moringa, sour horn, mango, cow stomach fruit, and sour jujube plum all thrive in Wandiang, adorning the town, villages, fields, and riverbanks with lush greenery and abundant fruit, making the area incredibly charming and attractive.

Wandian Culinary Tour
Due to high temperatures and humidity, local cuisine in Wandian is closely related to the climate, featuring flavors of sour, spicy, bitter, and fragrant. Here, you can taste unique Dai dishes such as Dai-style salad, Pa-ha fried eggs, bamboo shoots with snails, stir-fried bitter seeds, pickled vegetables, fire-grilled meat with tofu skin, fried yellow waist bee larvae, sour ant mixed with beef, and honey-coated dishes. You can also enjoy green ecological beef flavored with sugarcane leaves, with beef steak mixed with millet chili and other condiments, creating a spicy and exciting taste experience.

Chinese Name:小黑江（临沧-普洱: 双江-沧源-澜沧）
English Name: Xiaoheijiang River in Lincang and Puer(Shuang, Cangyuan and Lancang Counties)

Xiaoheijiang River is located in the northwest of Puer County (now Ning’er County), originating from the areas of Dawangtiantou and Zhaojiashan in Zhenyuan County. It flows through Jinggu and serves as the boundary river between Jinggu and Ning’er Counties. Xiaoheijiang River, a tributary of the Lancang River, is 175 kilometers long. It originates from the western slopes of Bangma Mountain in Gengma Dai and Wa Autonomous County, Lincang City, with a drainage area of 5,776 square kilometers. Historically known as Lasa River, it forms the boundary river between Shuangjiang, Cangyuan, and Lancang counties, and after passing through Jinggu, it also serves as the boundary river between Jinggu and Ning’er Counties before finally merging with the Lancang River.

River Overview: The river flows southwest and, after joining with the Man Yao River, continues as the boundary river between Jinggu and Ning’er Counties before entering the Lancang River. In Ning’er County, it stretches 35 kilometers, with a maximum water surface width of 87.3 meters, a minimum of 71.4 meters, and an average width of 80.67 meters. The maximum water depth is 6 meters, and the average depth is 2.33 meters. The river traverses through high mountains with steep gradients, and some sections have swift currents. The riverbanks are covered with subtropical broadleaf forests and include bamboo forests, banyan trees, dragon blood trees, and tree ferns. It supports a diverse range of wildlife, including macaques, lazy monkeys, Fei’s leaf monkeys, and peacocks.

Tributaries:

1. Mengtai River: Originates from the back mountains of Baha and flows east into Xiaoheijiang River. It is 15 kilometers long with a drainage area of 27.45 square kilometers and an average annual flow of 0.44 cubic meters per second.
2. Nanzhang River: Begins at Xianrenfang Poto and flows west into Xiaoheijiang River, characterized by deep canyons and steep slopes. It is 11 kilometers long with a drainage area of 32.18 square kilometers and an average annual flow of 0.61 cubic meters per second.
3. Cha River: Originates from the Damo Liangzi watershed, formed by the confluence of Mang’an and Mangjin Rivers. It flows west into Xiaoheijiang River, with a length of 11 kilometers and a drainage area of 32.18 square kilometers, with an average annual flow of 0.33 cubic meters per second.
4. Maming River: Starts from the back mountains of Xiaomameng and flows south into Xiaoheijiang River. It is 10 kilometers long with a drainage area of 30.09 square kilometers and an average annual flow of 0.29 cubic meters per second.
5. Bangbing River: Originates from the southern side of Daqingshan and flows south into Xiaoheijiang River. It is 16 kilometers long with a drainage area of 77.9 square kilometers and an average annual flow of 1.85 cubic meters per second. The river area experiences frequent human and livestock activity, deforestation, and soil erosion, with occasional mudslides.

Lincang City Xiaoheijiang River Irrigation Project: Located in the southwestern part of Yunnan Province, this irrigation area covers southern Lincang City and involves the Xiaoheijiang River basin, a first-level tributary of the Lancang River. It spans three counties, 13 townships, and three farms, including Mengdong, Yanshuai, Mengsheng, Mengjiao, Danjia, Nuoliang, Menglai, and Mengsheng Farms in Cangyuan Autonomous County; Mengku, Shahe, Mengmeng, Bangbing Farms, and Mengku Farms in Shuangjiang Autonomous County; and Sipai Mountain Township in Gengma Autonomous County. The irrigation area ranges in elevation from 600 to 1,640 meters, with a total planned area of about 209.8 million mu (approximately 139,866 hectares). The current cultivated land is 71,000 mu, with a planned irrigation area of 51,000 mu. The project includes the construction of two medium-sized reservoirs, Xianzhulin and Xianzhulin, and an expansion of the Jiucai Dam reservoir. The main infrastructure includes 391.4 kilometers of pipelines, with 264.4 kilometers of new pipelines and 127 kilometers of continued pipelines, and seven new pumping stations. The total investment is estimated at 4.6267 billion yuan.

Jinggu County Xiaoheijiang River Subtropical Rainforest Forest Park: Located at the southern foot of Wuliang Mountain, on the border between Jinggu County and Ning’er County, the subtropical rainforest area is characterized by diverse and mysterious landscapes with variable climates. The river flows through high mountains and subtropical broadleaf forests, with rich natural resources including bamboo forests, banyan trees, dragon blood trees, tree ferns, macaques, lazy monkeys, Fei’s leaf monkeys, and peacocks. It is also a starting point for the ancient Tea Horse Road, featuring ancient tea gardens and thousand-year-old tea trees. The area is known for large wild animals, making it a challenging destination for self-driving tours.

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Rivers in Lincang

Nujiang River in Yongde County, Lincang

Overview Nujiang River (怒江) in Yongde County (永德县), Lincang (临沧), Yunnan Province (云南省), is renowned for its rugged beauty and pristine natural landscapes. Flowing through the deep valleys and...

Attractions    Veiw

• Lincang
• Rivers in Lincang
• Yongde County

Nanting River in Lincang

Chinese Name: 南汀河 English Name: Nanting River in Lincang Source: The Nanting River originates in Bosang Town, Linxiang District, Lincang City, Yunnan Province. The river flows through the middle...

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• Gengma County
• Lincang
• Linxiang District
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• Rivers in Lincang
• Yongde County
• Yunxian County
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Kuke River in Baoshan and Lincang

Chinese Name: 枯柯河 English Name: Kuke River Rafting in Baoshan and Lincang Guke River is a tributary of the Nujiang River, also known as the Mengboluo River, named after...

Attractions    Veiw

• Baoshan
• Changning County
• Lincang
• Rivers in Baoshan
• Rivers in Lincang
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Xiaoheijiang River in Lincang and Puer

Chinese Name:小黑江（临沧-普洱: 双江-沧源-澜沧） English Name: Xiaoheijiang River in Lincang and Puer(Shuang, Cangyuan and Lancang Counties) Xiaoheijiang River is located in the northwest of Puer County (now Ning’er County), originating...

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• Cangyuan County
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• Lincang
• Ninger County
• Puer
• Rivers in Lincang
• Rivers in Puer
• Shuangjiang County