The Metok Road is a challenging journey.
Metok is a county under the jurisdiction of Nyingchi City in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. It is known for its unique natural scenery and rich ethnic culture. Here is a travel guide for Metok:
1. Location and Features
Metok is located on the southern slope of the Himalayas, bordering India. With an average altitude of 1,200 meters, it is the most remote county in southeastern Tibet. Known as the "Hidden Lotus," it is the place with the lowest altitude, the most well-preserved ecological environment, the mildest climate, and the most abundant rainfall on the plateau.
2. Recommended Travel Time
Due to heavy snow in winter, it is generally not recommended to visit Metok from November to May. The best time to visit is from May to the end of October.
3. Recommended Hiking Routes
• Hiking Route 1: Start from Pai Township, cross the Duoxiongla Pass at an altitude of over 4,000 meters, follow the Duoxiongla to Laga, Hanmi, and Beibeng, then head north along the Yarlung Tsangpo River to Metok County. The total distance is about 115 kilometers.
• Hiking Route 2: Milin County Pai Township - Duoxiongla Pass - Nage - Hanmi - Ani Bridge - Beibeng Township - Metok. This is the most common and safest route to enter Metok County.
4. Self-Driving Route
The self-driving route is about 164 kilometers long, starting from the beginning of the Zhamo Highway, passing through 52K, 80K, Metok County, Yarang Menba Folk Village, and finally reaching Beibeng Township. Along the way, you can enjoy the Galongla Waterfall, Galongla Heavenly Lake, Galongla Tunnel and Swallow Swinging Wonder, Metok Waterfall Group, Menba Hanging Corner Building, and other attractions.
5. Unique Experiences
• Stone Pot Culture: Bangxin Township is a famous origin of Metok stone pots. You can experience the traditional craftsmanship of carving soapstone with primitive tools to make stone pots.
• Tea Garden Experience: Metok's high mountain organic tea is very famous. You can visit the tea garden and experience the process of picking and making tea.
• Bridge Scenery: Metok County has many rivers and unique bridge scenery, including steel cable suspension bridges, vine net bridges, ziplines, and single-log bridges. Among them, the vine net bridge and zipline are the most distinctive.
6. Precautions
• The climate in Metok is changeable, so prepare suitable clothing and equipment.
• Due to the complex terrain, pay attention to safety, especially when hiking and driving.
• Respect the local ethnic culture and customs.