Daocheng Yading: The Last Pure Land on the Blue Planet

A trip to Sichuan takes you to the 'Land of Sunshine' in the Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, where the sacred pure land of 'Daocheng Yading' is hidden in the snow-covered plateau. This beautiful scenic area is formed by magnificent glaciers, towering snow-capped mountains, deep valleys, vast forests, and azure lakes. Daocheng Yading is surrounded by three sacred mountains that are covered with snow all year round: Xiannairi, Yangmaiyong, and Xianuoduoji. These mountains are considered the incarnations of Avalokitesvara, Vajrapani, and Manjushri in Tibetan Buddhism, symbolizing wisdom, compassion, and strength. The best time to visit is in autumn when the forests and grasslands turn from green to yellow, combined with the remaining snow on the mountains, creating a charming and cool autumn atmosphere. The scenic spot is Chonggu Monastery, located at the foot of Xiannairi Mountain. It is ancient and timeless, like the gate to paradise, guarding the sacred Shambhala Kingdom. Other famous attractions include Pearl Lake, Yangmaiyong, Xianuoduoji Snow Mountain, Luorong Pasture, Milk Lake, and Five-Color Lake. It takes a whole day to visit all these spots. Unfortunately, due to the tight schedule of the group tour, there wasn't enough time to visit the farther Milk Lake and Five-Color Lake. Hopefully, there will be another opportunity to visit them next time.