Nailung Township of Nyalam County in Shigatse

Nailong Township (乃龙乡) is located in Nyalam County (聂拉木县), Shigatse (日喀则市), Tibet Autonomous Region (西藏自治区), China. It lies in the eastern part of Nyalam County, about 150 kilometers from the county seat, at an altitude of 4,300 meters. The township is known for its semi-agricultural and semi-pastoral economy, focusing on crops like qingke barley (青稞), rapeseed (油菜), and potatoes (土豆), as well as the breeding of yak, goats, and sheep. In 2021, it was recognized as the “Hometown of Nailong Jiaxie” (乃龙甲谐之乡), a Tibetan folk cultural art project of the Tibet Autonomous Region.

Overview of Nailong Township

  • Location: Eastern part of Nyalam County, Shigatse, Tibet

  • Area: 335.57 km²

  • Population: 1,590 (2017)

  • Postal Code: 858318

  • Telephone Area Code: 0892

  • Climate: Plateau climate

  • Vehicle Plate Code: Zang D (藏D)

Key Attractions in Nailong Township

Hada Square (哈达广场)

Hada Square is the landmark of Nailong Township, constructed with aid from Shandong Province (山东援藏). The square is notable for its white Hada (哈达) sculpture, which symbolizes Tibetan hospitality. It also features displays of the Jiaxie Dance (甲谐舞) culture. Located at the end of National Highway 318 (G318), it is a popular stop for travelers, offering nearby attractions like an oxygen bar and sea buckthorn forest park.

Nailong Jiaxie Dance (乃龙甲谐)

This unique dance, which is part of Tibet’s intangible cultural heritage (西藏自治区级非物质文化遗产), is performed during major festivals like Wangguo Festival (望果节). In August 2025, the Fourth Nailong Jiaxie Cultural Activity (乃龙甲谐文化活动) was held, featuring dance performances and events like the Farmers’ Sports Meet (农牧民运动会).

End of National Highway 318 (318国道终点)

Nailong Township marks the end of National Highway 318 (G318), which stretches 5,476 kilometers from Shanghai to Nailong. Visitors can enjoy spectacular views of Mount Everest (珠穆朗玛峰) from here, making it an ideal stop for self-driving and cycling travelers.

Transportation and Routes

Self-Driving / Cycling

From Shigatse (日喀则市), it takes approximately 3 hours to reach Nailong Township along the G318 National Highway (G318). The road is paved and in good condition.

Public Transportation

Buses from Shigatse to Nyalam County (聂拉木县) are available. After reaching Nyalam, visitors will need to transfer to local vehicles to reach Nailong Township.

Accommodation and Supplies

Red Pomegranate Service Station (红石榴驿站)

The Red Pomegranate Service Station offers free accommodation, charging facilities, WiFi, and oxygen machines, making it a great place for cyclists or self-driving travelers to rest overnight.

Nailong Township Hotel (乃龙乡宾馆)

Basic accommodations are available near the township government office. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

Travel Tips

Border Pass

If you plan to visit the border areas such as Zhangmu Port (樟木口岸), a border pass must be obtained in advance, either at your place of residence or in Lhasa (拉萨).

Altitude Sickness

With an elevation of about 4,300 meters, travelers should be prepared for potential altitude sickness. It is advisable to bring warm clothing and oxygen supplies.

Nearby Attractions

Zhangmu Port (樟木口岸)

Located approximately 40 kilometers from Nailong Township, Zhangmu Port is a major border crossing between China and Nepal. A border pass is required to visit.

Pekuo Lake (佩枯措)

Situated along the G219 National Highway (G219), Pekuo Lake offers stunning views of Xixiabangma Peak (希夏邦马峰) reflected in its waters, making it a must-see for nature lovers and photographers.