The altitude of Zhangmu Town is only a bit more than 2,000 meters (about 6,562 feet); therefore, it is a lowland in Tibet. One of the special aspects of Zhangmu Town is that it is one of the borders separating China and Nepal. About 90 kilometers (about 56 miles) south of Youyi Bridge (Friendship Bridge), which is the boundary bridge connecting the two countries, there stands the capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu.
Zhangmu Town was built against a mountain. Its mild climate is conducive for the flourishing of flowers, trees and other green vegetations. Scenic views can be found almost all the year round; in other words, whatever the time of year that you decide to visit, this elegant small town is well worth a look. All the houses here are scattered randomly without any intentional design; therefore it gives visitors a rambling impression of the town. Furthermore, almost all visitors are touched by its simplicity and purity. Streets and stone stairs, like threads, connect all the houses together, which make people feel very easy to find their way from one house to another. Most rooftops house small delicate gardens, bringing a special kind of beauty to this little town. A very important landmark in Zhangmu Town is its busy and prosperous harbor. Through the foreign goods coming in from India and Nepal, you can enjoy many an exotic flavor in Zhangmu Town.
Getting there:
There are no shuttle buses between Zhangmu Town and Lhasa or other parts of Tibet. The best way to get there is to rent a car or to hitchhike.
Accommodation:
Zhangmu Hostel is the only hostel in that town, but the prices are a little steep. It's better to stay for nights in Nielamu (a place about 30 kilometers (about 33 yards) away from Zhangmu Town). One reason is that it is much cheaper than Zhangmu Hostel; the other one is that most drivers seek temporary lodging there; therefore it is easy for you to catch a lift to Zhangmu Town.
Tips:
It rains often in Zhangmu Town, so it's best to take a raincoat or an umbrella whenever you go outside.
There are a great many slippery and narrow stone stairs, so please wear appropriate footwear.
