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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.

Remember these travel tips:

  • Respect the environment; do not litter.
  • If you encounter wild animals, observe from a distance.