The Most Beautiful Hidden Gems of Western Sichuan in Autumn, Tibetan Villages Under Snowy Mountains So Beautiful They Leave You Speechless

When the city's neon lights are obscured by smog, I encountered the entire Milky Way on a grassland at 3,800 meters above sea level—at that moment, I knew this trip to Western Sichuan would become the brightest memory. Why go to Western Sichuan? I have always longed for the snowy mountains and Tibetan culture of Western Sichuan, but was often deterred by the "long journey and altitude sickness." Until a friend said, "Autumn is the gentlest season in Western Sichuan," I finally made up my mind to spend 3 days and 2 nights heading straight to Jiaju Tibetan Village in Danba, Ganzi, and the Siguniang Mountain area to see the legendary scenery "more magical than Switzerland." Day 1: Chengdu → Danba · First Encounter with the Tibetan Village’s Lively Atmosphere Transportation: Take an early bus from Chengdu Chadianzi Bus Station (about 6 hours direct to Danba County), then charter a car to Jiaju Tibetan Village (30 minutes on winding mountain roads, with layers of colorful forests outside the window). First Impression: Tibetan stone houses built on the mountainside, yellow walls and red roofs look like an oil painting under the sun. An elderly woman at the village entrance handed me hot butter tea, warming me to the core. Activities: Climb the viewing platform for a panoramic shot (recommended after 4 PM for soft light), watch the cooking smoke blend with distant mountains at dusk. Tips: Mountain roads are winding; if prone to motion sickness, prepare medication in advance; there are guesthouses in the village, book early during peak season. Day 2: Jiaju → Siguniang Mountain Shuangqiao Valley · Entering a Snowy Mountain Fairy Tale Transportation: Early morning chartered car to Siguniang Mountain (about 2.5 hours), first stop Shuangqiao Valley Scenic Area. Take the sightseeing bus deep into the valley, passing by Snow Mountain Reflection Lake, Five-Color Mountain, and Ginseng Fruit Flat in sequence. Hike the plank road to Nianyu Dam, where the creek is crystal clear, perfect for capturing stunning photos of "people wandering in a painting." In the afternoon, wait for the golden sunlight on the mountain (high chance in autumn), as the golden light shines on Yaomei Peak, breathtakingly stunning. Story Moment: I met a Tibetan boy who helped a tourist retrieve a dropped camera; he smiled and said, "The mountain god will bless those who love photography," which made me feel a closer connection to this land. Tips: Large temperature difference inside the scenic area; bring a windbreaker even in summer; those with mild altitude sickness can rest and acclimate at the valley entrance. Day 3: Siguniang Mountain → Chengdu · Farewell Under the Starry Sky If you wake up early, you can capture the fairyland of morning mist swirling around the mountains near the hotel. On the way back, stop halfway up the mountain; after nightfall, the Milky Way is clearly visible, and long exposure on your phone can capture star trails. Returning to Chengdu late at night, my heart stayed between those snowy mountains and Tibetan villages. Food & Accommodation Recommendations Danba Tibetan Hot Pot (about 60 RMB per person): Yak meat + local mushrooms, fresh and flavorful broth. Recommended: "Jiaju First Tibetan Restaurant." Siguniang Mountain Grilled Lamb Skewers (about 40 RMB per person): Charcoal aroma is strong, served with highland barley cakes for an authentic taste. Accommodation Recommendations Best Value: Jiaju Tibetan Village "Cloud Stone House" (about 260 RMB/night, mountain view) For Scenic Lovers: Siguniang Mountain Town "Snow Mountain Impression Inn" (about 480 RMB/night, balcony facing Yaomei Peak) Avoid Pitfalls & Thoughtful Tips Strong UV rays in high-altitude areas, be sure to fully equip with sunscreen + sunglasses + hat. National Day/Autumn foliage season is crowded; book tickets and accommodation in advance. Signal is weak in some areas; download offline maps beforehand. Respect local customs: Do not casually photograph Buddha statues inside temples. Three days is short, but it made me rediscover the purity of nature and the warmth of people. The beauty of Western Sichuan is not only in the lens but in every breath and heartbeat. For your next holiday, consider adding this snowy mountain and Tibetan village to your travel list—perhaps you will also encounter your own Milky Way story here.