Yiri Great Gorge: 'Switzerland in the East'

Yiri Great Gorge is located in the Yiri Township, 85 miles from the Tibet autonomous region's Wuqi county.The scenic beauty of Yiri Great Gorge has earned it the name "Switzerland in the East". [Photo/CRIENGLISH.com]

Yiri Great Gorge is located in the Yiri Township, 85 miles from the Tibet autonomous region's Wuqi qounty. Covered with primeval vegetation of over one hundred varieties, the gorge exhibits a primitive state of nature, as influenced by an altitude of 3,850 meters. Steep mountains with jagged stones stand face to face on two sides of the banks and creeping clouds spill over the peaks. The scenic beauty of Yiri Great Gorge has earned it the name "Switzerland in the East".

The development of Yiri Great Gorge is almost complete and it is expected to open fully to the public within three years' time.

According to the introduction of Liu Feng, secretary of the township party committee, environmental protection is a key concern regarding construction in the scenic spot. No motor vehicles will be allowed in the area, and electric buses will take care of transportation needs. Moreover, the scenic spot will only offer essential infrastructure like roads and public restrooms. Even hotels will not exist within Yiri Gorge, only offering local "Zang Jia Le" accommodations featuring Tibetan culture and customs. The local government has also been making great effort to raise local people's awareness of environmental protection and sustainable development.