Tibet through the Lens -- Border Town

The small Xiasima Town in the magnificent embrace of the huge mountains. [Photo:CRIENGLISH.com]

In the heart of the mountain ranges of the Himalayas, Yadong County in Tibet Autonomous Region borders the Kingdom of Bhutan to the east and reaches to India and Bangladesh in the west. With an altitude of 3,500 meters, the county is known for its secluded location and primitive lifestyle.

Xiasima Town, in the county seat of Yadong, has a small population of 1,563 and in the recent wave of modernization, the locals are beginning to establish their own factories.

The border town used to be a major business port between China and India. Due to frequent communications in trade and culture, the architecture and lifestyle display significant Indian influences.

Xiasima Town is best known for its woodwork. Many houses are decorated with exquisitely carved wooden walls.