History: Nyingchi is one of the important cradles of ancient Tibetan civilization having been settled as early as four or five thousand years ago. It was under domination of the Tupo Kingdom for two hundred years (7th century to the 9th century). Since its liberation in 1951, it has moved away from its long past as a feudal society.

 Physical Features: Nyingchi is noted for its verdant mountainous terrain and clear waterways. The Himalayan and Tangula mountains wend their way from west to east to join the Hengduan Mountains. Because of the large number of river valleys and alpine gorges, the region is sometimes referred to as the 'Switzerland of Tibet'.

 Special Local Products: Chinese herbal medicines; Menba wooden bowls; bambooware; pottery and fruits such as oranges, apples and grapes.

 Local Highlights: The Niangbu Lasu Festival is held in Kongpo Gyamda County on the tenth day of the 'horse year' on the Tibetan calendar. It features sacrificial rites as well as horse and yak racing and singing and dancing performances. The Kongpo New Year Festival, also in Kongpo Gyamda, is held on October 1. It is filled with such entertainment as ethnic singing and dancing, horse racing and archery contests.