The Widest Curtain of the Plateau: Nuorilang Waterfall and the Soul of Jiuzhaigou

The Majestic Heart of Jiuzhaigou

1.Located in the heart of the Jiuzhaigou Valley: Scenic and Historic Interest Area in Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, Nuorilang Waterfall is a spectacular natural wonder situated at an altitude of approximately 2,365 meters. It sits at the junction of the valley's "Y" shape, marking the end of the Shuzheng Valley. In the Tibetan language, "Nuorilang" translates to "male god" or "grand and magnificent," a fitting name for what is recognized as the widest calcified waterfall in China and one of the widest in Asia,. The waterfall spans an impressive width of approximately 270 to 320 meters and has a drop of about 20 meters. It is formed by the water from the Nuorilang Lakes flowing over the top of a massive calcified dike, creating a multi-layered, majestic water curtain that is often described as a "silver river falling from the blue sky",,.

A Symphony of Seasons

Nuorilang Waterfall offers a distinct visual feast in every season. In summer, the water flow is abundant and powerful, creating a thunderous roar that resonates through the valley. The splashing water often forms rainbows under the morning sunlight, adding a dreamlike quality to the scene,. In autumn, the waterfall is framed by a riot of colors as the surrounding forests turn golden, red, and orange. The contrast between the rushing white water and the vibrant autumn foliage makes it a paradise for photographers. In winter, the waterfall transforms into a silent, crystal-clear ice world. The cascading water freezes into massive blue ice curtains and icicles, hanging from the cliffs like a magnificent natural ice sculpture, offering a rare and serene beauty known as the "Blue Ice" phenomenon,,.

A Cultural Icon and Screen Star

Beyond its natural beauty, Nuorilang Waterfall holds a special place in Chinese popular culture. It is famously known as the filming location for the end credits scene of the classic 1986 TV series "Journey to the West", where the master and his disciples walk past the top of a waterfall—a scene etched in the memories of generations of viewers,. Culturally, the local Tibetan people regard it as a "Sacred Waterfall." Legends say that the mountain god Zhayizhaga used his power to crush a demon into the cliff here to protect the valley, or that the waterfall was formed by the tears of the goddess Semo. During festivals, locals often perform "Wei Sang" (burning aromatic plants) and offer Hada (white ceremonial scarves) facing the waterfall to pray for peace and favorable weather,.

The Center of the Valley

2.As the central hub of the: Jiuzhaigou scenic area, Nuorilang is not just a visual highlight but also a key transit point. The Nuorilang Tourist Service Center located nearby serves as the transfer station for sightseeing buses heading to the other two main valleys (Rize Valley and Zechawa Valley),. Visitors can stand on the viewing platform across from the waterfall to capture its full panoramic grandeur. Whether witnessing the "Golden Waterfall" at sunset or the morning mist rising from the pool, Nuorilang represents the dynamic soul of Jiuzhaigou's water, blending power with the "Highland Aesthetics" of the Tibetan plateau,.