The Last Sanctuary of the Giants: Tracking Asian Elephants in the Nangunhe National Nature Reserve

The "Green Pearl" on the Border

Hidden deep within the mountains of southwestern Yunnan, straddling the border of Cangyuan Va Autonomous County and Gengma Dai and Va Autonomous County in Lincang City, lies a pristine ecological treasure: the Nangunhe National Nature Reserve. Often referred to as the "Pearl of the Green" on the Tropic of Cancer, comparable to Xishuangbanna, this reserve covers an area of over 7,000 hectares. It sits on the western slopes of the southern section of the Nu Mountain range and serves as a vital biological corridor connecting China with the ecological systems of Southeast Asia. Recognized as an ASEAN Heritage Park, Nangunhe is not just a sanctuary for wildlife; it is a "biological gene bank" that preserves one of the most intact tropical rainforest ecosystems in China outside of Xishuangbanna.

Sanctuary of the Asian Elephant

Nangunhe is most famous for being one of the few remaining habitats for the Asian Elephant in China. Unlike the more frequented tourist spots, this reserve offers a raw and authentic glimpse into the lives of these gentle giants. It is often called a "Refuge for Asian Elephants," where herds roam freely through the dense bamboo forests and river valleys. Lucky visitors, guided by rangers, might spot these majestic creatures foraging or bathing in the river, particularly during the early morning or late afternoon hours. The reserve is also home to a staggering array of other rare wildlife, including the White-handed Gibbon (Hylobates lar), Western Black Crested Gibbon, Indochinese Tiger, Leopard, and the Green Peafowl. It is a true "Kingdom of Animals" where the calls of primates and the songs of birds create a symphony of the wild,.

A Tropical Botanical Garden

1.The flora of: Nangunhe is equally spectacular. The reserve boasts a complete vertical vegetation spectrum ranging from tropical rainforests to monsoon broad-leaved forests. Walking through the reserve feels like stepping into a prehistoric world. Towering Parashorea chinensis (Wangtianshu) trees shoot up to 60 meters, piercing the canopy, while ancient Cycas and Tree Ferns (Alsophila) line the forest floor. The phenomenon of "Aerial Gardens"—where epiphytic orchids and ferns grow high on tree branches—is common here. The landscape is characterized by the complex root systems of giant banyans and the "strangler fig" phenomenon, showcasing the fierce competition and vitality of the rainforest.

The Nangun River Valley

2.The Nangun: River itself is a scenic lifeline that winds through the reserve. The river valley offers breathtaking views of tropical landscapes, with clear waters reflecting the lush greenery of the surrounding mountains. In some sections, the river flows gently through open valleys, while in others, it cuts through rugged terrain, creating dramatic rapids. This area is not only a paradise for nature lovers but also a cultural corridor. The local Va (Wa), Dai, and Yi ethnic groups have lived in harmony with this land for generations. The Va people, known for their "Sigangli" creation myth which speaks of humans emerging from a cave, revere the forest as the abode of spirits. Their totemic worship of nature has historically contributed to the preservation of this ecological haven,.