Nanmulin County

Nanmulin County is located in the eastern part of Shigatse City, Tibet Autonomous Region, on the north bank of the middle and upper reaches of the Yarlung Tsangpo River, between 88°50′ to 90°05′ east longitude and 29°30′ to 30°40′ north latitude. The total area is about 8,110 square kilometers, with an average altitude of over 4,000 meters. The permanent population is approximately 85,000 (2020 data), of which over 99% are Tibetan. Nanmulin means 'victory' in Tibetan, and historically it was an important agricultural county and religious cultural center in the Tsang region. The county borders the Yarlung Tsangpo River to the south and the Gangdise Mountains to the north, with terrain dominated by highland valleys and mountains, rich wetland resources, and unique Tibetan folk culture. Nanmulin is famous in Tibet for 'Emma potatoes' and is an important grain, oil, and livestock production base in Shigatse. It also features renowned Tibetan Buddhist monasteries such as Sewu Monastery and Gandian Quguo Monastery, as well as the magnificent scenery along the Yarlung Tsangpo River, making it an ideal destination for experiencing rural life and religious culture in the Tsang region.

I. Main Attractions 1. Sewu Monastery: Located in Labupu Township, about 40 km from the county seat, it is an important Nyingma monastery built in the 12th century, known for its exquisite murals and unique Vajra dance. It houses many Buddhist relics since the Tang Dynasty. The annual Cham dance festival is held in the fourth month of the Tibetan calendar. Admission: free (donations welcome), suggested visit time: 2-3 hours, contact local guide in advance. 2. Gandian Quguo Monastery: Near Nanmulin Town, built in the 15th century, a Gelug monastery and famous debating college in Tsang. The complex is built on a hillside with golden roofs and white walls. The Gandian Quguo Dharma Assembly is held in the sixth month of the Tibetan calendar. Admission: free, open 8:00-18:00. 3. Yarlung Tsangpo River Wetland Park: Along the southern bank of the Yarlung Tsangpo River, covering about 120 sq km, habitat for black-necked cranes, bar-headed geese, and other rare birds. Best birdwatching season: November to March. Self-drive along the riverside road, no ticket, bring binoculars. 4. Emma Township Rural Scenery: About 20 km northwest of the county seat, main production area of Emma potatoes. In summer, barley and rapeseed flowers create a picturesque landscape; in autumn, golden fields. Visit farm stays for Tibetan farming experience and fresh potatoes. 5. Xianghe Water Conservancy Scenic Area: In Kazi Township, a lake formed by a major water conservancy project, with blue water and snow-capped mountain reflections, suitable for photography and camping (environmentally conscious).

II. Food Recommendations 1. Emma Potatoes: Grown in high-altitude sandy soil, soft and sweet. Can be made into potato buns, mashed potatoes, or baked. Recommended at farm stays in Emma Township. 2. Tsampa and Butter Tea: Tibetan staples, available at many Tibetan restaurants in the county, e.g., 'Droma Tibetan Restaurant' (Renmin Road, Nanmulin Town). 3. Dried Yak Meat: Made from local yak hind legs, naturally dried, chewy. Available at 'Snowland Specialty Shop' in the county. 4. Tibetan Yogurt: Fermented from yak milk, sour and thick, best with sugar or honey, sold at street stalls in summer.

III. Transportation Guide 1. External Transport: From Shigatse city, take G318 then S303, about 90 km, 2 hours by car (self-drive or charter). Buses from Shigatse bus station to Nanmulin (daily 7:00-15:00, every 2 hours, fare about 50 yuan). 2. Internal Transport: Taxis (starting 10 yuan) and three-wheeled motorcycles (from 5 yuan) in the county. Shared minivans to townships (e.g., to Labupu about 30 yuan/person). Charter for sightseeing: 400-600 yuan per day. 3. Notes: Mountain roads are winding and narrow; some village roads are dirt; rainy season (June-August) prone to landslides; check road conditions before travel.

IV. Accommodation and Shopping 1. Accommodation: Nanmulin County Hotel (town center, double room about 200 yuan/night, with heating); Emma Township Tibetan Homestay (experience Tibetan family life, about 150 yuan/night including breakfast and dinner). 2. Shopping: County farmers' market sells Tibetan pulu (woolen fabric), wooden bowls, Tibetan incense, and specialties like dried Emma potatoes and dried yak meat.