Lulang Forest: Top Alpine Scenery of Tibet

Lulang Forest offers a striking contrast to the typical barren, high-altitude landscapes many associate with Tibet. Located along the famous G318 Sichuan-Tibet Highway in Nyingchi, this stretch of primeval forest blankets mountain slopes at elevations where trees rarely survive elsewhere in the world. The forest thrives here thanks to moisture flowing through the Yarlung Tsangpo Canyon from the Indian Ocean, creating an unusually lush microclimate on the Tibetan Plateau.

What makes Lulang Forest particularly appealing to visitors is its accessibility. The main viewing platform sits right off the G318 highway, making it an easy stop as a half-day trip from Nyingchi. The combination of mountain scenery, relatively moderate altitude, and the possibility of glimpsing Namjagbarwa makes Lulang Forest a worthwhile addition to any Nyingchi itinerary.

Lulang Forest sits at elevations between 2,700 and 4,200 meters in Nyingchi, approximately 80 kilometers east of the city center. The name "Lulang" means "Dragon King Valley" in Tibetan, though some also call it "the place that makes you forget your homesickness." What makes this destination special is its combination of dense primeval forests, wild flowers, and one of the best vantage points for viewing Namjagbarwa Peak.

Lulang Forest Viewing Platform

The main viewing platform sits at 4,300 meters elevation, reached via a wooden boardwalk that descends into the valley. From here, you’ll see what the Chinese name describes as a "sea of forest"—an vast expanse of dense evergreen forest covering the valley slopes as far as the eye can see. The forest is composed mainly of spruce, pine, and fir trees. On misty days, clouds drift through the trees creating an ethereal atmosphere. The round-shaped platform allows for various viewing angles. Take it slow climbing back up at this altitude; the thin air affects most visitors.

Views of Namjagbarwa Peak

On clear days, from the Lulang Forest viewing platform, you can see Mount Namjagbarwa (7,782 meters) framed by the forest in the foreground. This viewing angle is special because the dense trees create extra layers in your photographs—meadows, forests, and then the massive snow peak rising behind them. However, Namjagbarwa is nicknamed "Shy Girl Peak" because clouds frequently hide it. October through April offers the best visibility, with November to February being most reliable. The forest setting here gives you a different perspective compared to the more famous Sejila Pass viewpoint.

Lulang Forest is located in Bayi District, approximately 60 kilometers east of Nyingchi city center. The drive takes 1 to 1.5 hours along the G318 National Highway.

You’ll pass through Sejila Pass (4,728 meters) before descending to the Lulang Forest viewing platform at 4,300 meters. The platform is about 6 kilometers past Sejila Pass, less than 10 minutes’ drive.

☛ How to Get to & Around Nyingchi
☛ How to Get from Lhasa to Nyingchi

Transportation:

Private car is the only practical option. The route is along the main Sichuan-Tibet highway, and you can arrange transportation through a reliable local travel agency.

● Best Time to Visit: Lulang Forest can be visited year-round. Summer (June - August) offers the most lush greenery, while autumn (September - October) and spring (March - May) have higher chances of clear skies for viewing Namjagbarwa, especially on sunny days.

● Admission Fees: The forest is located along the G318 highway and visible from the roadside. However, entry to the viewing platform costs 30 RMB per person.

● Altitude and Acclimatization: The viewing platform sits at 4,300 meters with stairs that require climbing back up. Take it slow and rest as needed. You’ll drive through Sejila Pass at 4,728 meters to reach Lulang from Nyingchi. Spend at least one night in the city before visiting to acclimatize. Stay hydrated and don’t overexert yourself.

● What to Wear: Dress in layers. Tibet’s high altitude means intense UV radiation, so bring SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and protection for your neck and face.