Medog Nature Reserve in Nyingchi

Medog Nature Reserve in Nyingchi

Medog Nature Reserve, nestled in the heart of Medog County, is a captivating gem within Nyingchi Prefecture. Let’s delve into the enchanting details of this pristine reserve:

Nature’s Museum of Plants and Animals:
- Covering an expansive area of approximately 4,600 square kilometers, Medog Nature Reserve is renowned as the Nature Museum of Plants and Animals.
- It boasts a rich variety of vegetation, including species from tropical to frigid zones.
- The reserve cradles the best-preserved primitive jungle in its depths, making it a haven for biodiversity.
Complex Natural Environment:
- Medog Nature Reserve slopes down from north to south on the southern side of the Himalayas.
- Its intricate ecosystem supports over 3,000 species of higher plants, some of which bear the name of Medog itself.
- This less-traveled virgin land lies in the valleys of the Yarlungzangbo River’s great bend on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.
Wildlife Sanctuary:
- Within its lush green embrace, Medog shelters over 40 species of wild animals under key national protection.
- Among these are the red-chested tragopan, grey-bellied tragopan, langur, clouded leopard, and even the elusive lesser panda.
- The reserve’s pristine environment provides excellent living and breeding conditions for these remarkable creatures.
How to Reach Medog Nature Reserve:
- By Air:
  - Fly to Nyingchi Milin Airport from cities like Lhasa, Chengdu, Kunming, or Chongqing.
  - Take the airport shuttle bus to Bayi Town in Nyingchi (approximately CNY 25, one hour).
  - From Bayi Town, hop on a regular minibus to Paizhen Town (bus fare around CNY 60).
  - Alternatively, consider chartering a taxi to Pai Village (around CNY 350).
- By Bus:
  - Take a long-distance bus from Lhasa’s Eastern Suburb Coach Station to Bayi Town in Nyingchi (approximately CNY 150).
  - Catch the minibus to Paizhen Town from Bayi Town.