The Valley of Happiness: Unveiling the Back Garden of the Himalayas at Gyirong

The Last Secret Realm of the Himalayas

1.Hidden deep within the core of the: Himalayas in Shigatse City, Tibet, lies a lush, verdant gorge known as Gyirong Valley (Jilong Gou). Often referred to as the "Back Garden of the Himalayas" or the "Last Secret Realm," this valley offers a landscape that stands in stark contrast to the typical arid and desolate high-altitude plateaus of Tibet,. The valley stretches approximately 93 kilometers long, cutting a deep gash through the mountains. It is characterized by a dramatic vertical drop in altitude, plunging from the high mountain passes at over 4,000 meters down to the lush river valley at 1,800 meters. This unique geography creates a stunning "vertical ecological landscape" where travelers can witness the transition from snowy peaks and alpine meadows to temperate forests and finally to subtropical rainforests within a single journey.

The Valley of Happiness

2.In the: Tibetan language, "Gyirong" translates to "Village of Happiness" or "Happy Valley". History tells us that in the 8th century, the Indian master Padmasambhava passed through this valley on his way to Tibet and was so enchanted by its beauty that he gave it this auspicious name. The valley is not just a natural wonder but a significant historical corridor. It served as the Tang-Tubo Ancient Road (a branch of the Silk Road/Tea Horse Road), a vital passage for trade and cultural exchange between China, Tibet, and Nepal for centuries,. Famous historical figures, such as the Tang Dynasty envoy Wang Xuance, traveled through this very valley to reach India. Today, it remains a crucial border region connecting China and Nepal, preserving a rich tapestry of history amidst its scenic beauty.

3.A Symphony of Nature: From Nai Village to Jipu Canyon

The valley is composed of several distinct scenic areas. One of the undisputed highlights is Nai Village (Naicun), located on a mountain tableland above Gyirong Town. Standing at the observation deck in Nai Village offers a "God's eye view" of the surrounding snow-capped peaks, including the majestic Riwo Banba, rising 360 degrees around the golden pastures and traditional Tibetan houses,. Another spectacular feature is the Jipu Grand Canyon (Jipu Daxiagu). Here, the Gyirong Zangbo River cuts a narrow, deep fissure into the earth, creating a "Line of Sky" view. A suspension bridge spans this terrifyingly deep chasm, offering thrill-seekers a unique perspective of the roaring river below and the lush vegetation clinging to the cliff walls.

A Melting Pot of Cultures

Gyirong Valley is a place where cultures converge. The architecture and customs here reflect a blend of Tibetan and Nepalese influences. The Paba Temple (Paba Si) in Gyirong Town is a prime example, featuring a unique Nepalese pagoda style. Legend has it that this temple was built by King Songtsen Gampo for his Nepalese wife, Princess Bhrikuti,. The region is also home to the Sherpa people and other ethnic groups who have lived in these borderlands for generations, maintaining a lifestyle that is harmoniously integrated with the dense forests and steep mountains,. Whether exploring the ruins of the Gongtang Kingdom or trekking through the primeval forests filled with Himalayan pines and spruce, visitors are constantly reminded of the deep spiritual and historical roots of this "Valley of Happiness".