This isn't Xinjiang! It's not Switzerland! It's the Southern Genyen Circuit in Western Sichuan.

If you're yearning for a trip far from the hustle and bustle, a trip that embraces nature, then the Southern Genyen Circuit in Western Sichuan is definitely the perfect choice. Here, magnificent snowy mountains, vast grasslands, and deep alpine lakes await you. Every scene is a feast for the eyes. Follow me as we embark on this soul-stirring journey through Western Sichuan. Itinerary Overview The Southern Genyen Circuit in Western Sichuan takes about 6–8 days. We recommend driving yourself or chartering a car so you can have a flexible itinerary and stop to admire the roadside scenery at any time. Below is a classic 8-day itinerary: Chengdu - Kangding - Xinduqiao: Depart from Chengdu, pass through the Erlang Mountain Tunnel, and arrive in Kangding. Here, you can take a short break, experience the unique charm of this "City on the Move", and sample local specialties. Afterwards, cross Zheduo Mountain. The winding mountain road has eighteen bends and offers spectacular views. If you're lucky, you might even see a sea of clouds. Arrive in Xinduqiao in the late afternoon. Xinduqiao is a paradise for photography enthusiasts. The grasslands, streams, and Tibetan houses along the way create a picturesque landscape. The changing light and shadows at sunset are truly mesmerizing. Xinduqiao - Litang - Genyen Eye - Lenggu Monastery: Leave Xinduqiao and head to Litang. Litang is known as the "City in the Sky". It has a high altitude and is home to the magnificent Litang Monastery. Next, head to Genyen Eye, a natural pond that resembles an eye when seen from above. Surrounded by vast grasslands and set against the blue sky and white clouds, it is breathtakingly beautiful. Finally, arrive at Lenggu Monastery. This ancient monastery has a long history and, set against the backdrop of the snowy mountains, exudes a mysterious religious atmosphere. Lenggu Monastery - Hupi Dam - Old Lenggu Monastery - Lenggu Monastery: Depart from Lenggu Monastery in the morning and head to Hupi Dam. Along the way, you'll see snowy mountains and virgin forests. Hupi Dam is a vast meadow named after the tiger-skin-like stripes on the distant mountain peaks. Here, you can admire the magnificent view of Mount Genyen up close. Afterwards, hike to Old Lenggu Monastery. The scenery along the way is beautiful. With an even longer history than Lenggu Monastery, Old Lenggu Monastery has a simple, ancient beauty. Lenggu Monastery - Litang - Cuopugou: Leave Lenggu Monastery and return to Litang before heading to Cuopugou. Cuopugou boasts clear lakes, magical hot springs, lush forests, and active wildlife. You can see schools of fish by the Cuopu Lake. As soon as you make a sound, the fish will swarm towards you, which is quite interesting. You can also soak in the hot springs, relax, and enjoy the gifts of nature. Cuopugou - Batang - Yading: Depart from Cuopugou and pass through Batang, admiring the scenery of the Jinsha River Valley. Afterwards, head to Yading, known as the "Soul of Shangri-La". Here, you'll find the three sacred mountains of Chenresig, Jampelyang, and Chanadorje, as well as beautiful alpine lakes such as the Milk Sea and the Five-Color Sea. Every scene is a paradise on earth. One-Day Tour of Yading Scenic Area: Spend the whole day exploring Yading Scenic Area. We recommend taking the sightseeing bus and electric car to Zhaguanbeng, then hiking to Chonggu Monastery and Pearl Lake to admire the Chenresig snow mountain up close. If you're feeling energetic, you can challenge yourself to hike to the Milk Sea and the Five-Color Sea. Although the journey is arduous, it's all worth it when you see the dreamlike scenery. Yading - Litang - Xinduqiao: Leave Yading and pass through Litang, admiring the beautiful scenery once again. Then, return to Xinduqiao, enjoying the grassland scenery and magnificent mountains along the way. Xinduqiao - Chengdu: On the last day, depart from Xinduqiao and return to Chengdu, concluding your pleasant journey on the Southern Genyen Circuit in Western Sichuan. Transportation Guide Self-driving: This is the most recommended method, as it is convenient and flexible, allowing you to stop and take photos at any time. However, be aware that the mountain roads in Western Sichuan are rugged and winding, requiring a certain level of driving skill. Be sure to check your vehicle's condition before departure and prepare tools such as snow chains. Chartered car: If you don't want to drive yourself, you can charter a car. Find a reputable car rental company in Chengdu or locally, and discuss the itinerary and price with the driver. This way, you can enjoy the pleasure of traveling without the fatigue of driving. Public transportation: This is relatively inconvenient. Some scenic spots do not have direct public transportation, requiring multiple transfers, and buses are infrequent. We do not recommend this option. Accommodation Recommendations Xinduqiao: There are many unique guesthouses and hotels to choose from, ranging from youth hostels costing tens of yuan to boutique guesthouses costing hundreds of yuan. We recommend choosing accommodation near the viewing platform for easy sunrise and sunset viewing. Litang: There are plenty of accommodation options in the county, with hotels and inns of various price ranges. We recommend choosing hotels with oxygen supply equipment to alleviate altitude sickness. Lenggu Monastery: You can choose to stay in the monastery's guesthouse to experience the unique religious and cultural atmosphere, but the accommodation is relatively basic. You can also camp in a nearby campground, but pay attention to warmth and safety. Cuopugou: There are a few guesthouses and campgrounds in the scenic area. We recommend booking in advance. There are also many accommodation options in Batang County outside the scenic area, with relatively affordable prices. Yading: There is accommodation at the entrance to Yading Scenic Area and in Yading Village within the scenic area. Accommodation within the scenic area is more expensive but convenient for entering the scenic area early in the morning. Accommodation at the entrance to the scenic area is relatively cheaper, with more options available. Food Guide Kangding: Be sure to try the local yak beef hot pot. The meat is tender and the soup is rich. There are also special snacks such as jelly noodles and Guokui, which are also very delicious. Litang: Don't miss the Tibetan food in Litang, such as butter tea, barley cakes, and Tibetan steamed buns. Butter tea can alleviate altitude sickness and warm you up. Be sure to try the authentic version. Along the way: You can sample local wild vegetables, wild mushrooms, and other special ingredients, cooked as stir-fries or soups. They are delicious. There are also barbecue dishes such as roasted whole lamb and roasted rabbit. Enjoy the delicious food while admiring the beautiful scenery. Things to Note Altitude sickness prevention: Western Sichuan has a high altitude, with most areas above 3,000 meters. You may experience altitude sickness symptoms upon arrival. Take anti-altitude sickness medication a week in advance. Avoid strenuous exercise after arrival, drink plenty of water, and rest more. Seek medical attention immediately if altitude sickness symptoms are severe. Clothing preparation: Western Sichuan has a large temperature difference between day and night. Even in summer, bring warm clothing such as thick coats and thermal underwear. Also, prepare sun protection items such as sunglasses, sunscreen, and hats. The UV rays here are strong and can easily cause sunburn. Environmental awareness: The beautiful scenery of Western Sichuan needs everyone's protection. Do not litter during your trip and keep the scenic area clean. The Southern Genyen Circuit in Western Sichuan is a feast for the eyes and the soul. Every scene here is worth savoring. We hope this guide will help you embark on an unforgettable journey through Western Sichuan and encounter this pure land.