[2025 Daocheng Attraction] Travel Guide for Milk Lake (Updated Jun)

Daocheng Yading｜A place where oxygen is scarce but faith abounds✨ 📍 Address: Shangri-La Town, Daocheng County, Ganzi Prefecture, Sichuan Province ⏰ Best travel time: September-October (autumn scenery at its peak), May-June (snow-capped mountains and flower fields) 🚗 Transportation: Recommended to charter a car/self-drive from Chengdu (~12h), or fly to Daocheng Yading Airport (altitude 4411m, be cautious of altitude sickness) 🎫 Ticket + sightseeing bus**: 266 RMB/person (valid for 2 days), electric cart costs extra 80 RMB (highly recommended to save energy for high-altitude trekking) 🌟 Itinerary recommendation｜A paradise for hikers, a feast for the eyes** **Day1 Long route challenge**: Scenic area entrance → Zhaguanbeng → Luorong Pasture → Milk Lake → Five-Color Lake (~7h round trip) **Day2 Short route relaxation**: Chonggu Temple → Pearl Lake → Mount Xiannairi (easy hike to experience Tibetan culture) 📸 Must-visit spots: 1️⃣ Milk Lake—A sapphire at 4600m altitude, its Tiffany-blue hue under sunlight leaves you speechless! 2️⃣ Five-Color Lake—A sacred lake in Tibetan hearts, displaying five color changes daily 3️⃣ Luorong Pasture—Filming location for *I Belonged to You*, with snow mountains and meadows resembling Windows desktop wallpaper 💡 Pro tips: ✅ Wear anti-slip hiking shoes! The last kilometer of rocky path is extremely challenging ✅ Buy oxygen cans in advance (3x pricier in the scenic area), chocolates are essential ✅ Arrive before 7:30am—no mountain access after 3pm ✅ Stay in Shangri-La Town for cheaper lodging and lower altitude 👗 OOTD suggestion: Bright-colored windbreakers + cowboy hats make perfect photos! Layer up for drastic temperature changes~ "The last pure land" lives up to its name, Eyes in heaven, body in hell, But the moment you see the sacred mountain's reflection—everything becomes worthwhile!💙 There's a place called Daocheng, Where I want to go with my beloved, To see the azure sky, The snow-white mountains, The golden meadows, And witness an autumn fairytale. I'll tell her, If I don't reside in your heart, I'm but a wanderer in exile. I'll tell her that love means being together forever. I hope to meet someone like you— As refreshing as mountain breeze, As warm as ancient town sunlight— As long as it's you in the end, that's all that matters.

Daocheng In-Depth Travel Guide: Exploring the "Last Pure Land on the Blue Planet" 1. Must-Visit Attractions and Activities Daocheng Yading Core Area Three Holy Mountains: Xiannairi (Guanyin Bodhisattva), Yangmaiyong (Manjushri Bodhisattva), and Xianuoduoji (Vajrapani Bodhisattva) stand side by side as one of the 24 sacred Buddhist sites worldwide. Luorong Pasture is the perfect spot to capture the reflection of Yangmaiyong; in the early morning, the mist creates a fairyland atmosphere. Glacial Lakes: Milk Sea (blue-white gradient), Five Color Sea (fantastical colors), and Pearl Sea (emerald green like a gem) require hiking to reach. The long hiking route (Chonggu Temple → Luorong Pasture → Milk Sea → Five Color Sea) is about 12 km at an altitude of 4,500 meters. It is recommended to enter the park by 7 a.m., and bring oxygen tanks, trekking poles, and anti-slip shoes. Practical Tips: Tickets are valid for 2 days and can be used for either the long route (challenging) or the short route (easy). The short route (Chonggu Temple → Pearl Sea) is only 3 km, suitable for those with altitude sickness or families. Daocheng County Surroundings Daocheng White Pagoda: The only Tibetan Buddhist white pagoda park in the Kangnan area, with a pure white pagoda body and prayer flags fluttering around, making it a classic scene for Tibetan cultural photography. Banghe and Sela: Tens of thousands of green poplar trees turn golden and brilliant in autumn, forming a picturesque landscape with blue skies, white clouds, and winding rivers. Rubuchaka Hot Springs: Natural plateau hot springs with water temperatures reaching 80°C, perfect for relieving hiking fatigue; bring your own swimsuit. Hidden Gem Xingyicuo: The largest lake in Haizi Mountain, revered as a sacred lake by locals, with snow-capped mountains reflected on the surface, ideal for camping and stargazing. Bangpu Monastery: The oldest temple in Daocheng, a sacred site of the Tibetan Buddhist White Sect, housing a self-carved statue of Duzong Qinba, with murals and thangkas of great artistic value. 2. Classic Itinerary Recommendations (5 days 4 nights) Day 1: Chengdu → Xinduqiao → Yuzixi Travel along Provincial Road 434, check out the "Eighteen Bends of the Heavenly Road," and arrive at Yuzixi 360° viewing platform by evening to photograph snowy mountain starry skies. Accommodation: Tibetan-style guesthouse in Xinduqiao, experience yak meat stone-grilled and highland barley wine. Day 2: Xinduqiao → Litang → Shangri-La Town Visit the thousand-household Tibetan village to learn about Ding Zhen’s hometown culture; arrive in Shangri-La Town (altitude 2,900 meters) in the afternoon to acclimate to the plateau environment. Accommodation: Yading Risong Gongbu Crowne Plaza Hotel (5-star), 80% of rooms face the snow mountains. Day 3: Daocheng Yading Long Route Hiking Take a sightseeing bus early to Zhaguanbeng, hike to Luorong Pasture, horseback ride (300 RMB/horse) to She Shen Cliff, then walk to Milk Sea and Five Color Sea. Meals: Bring your own snacks; no restaurants at the summit. Day 4: Daocheng Yading Short Route Tour → Daocheng County Short hike to Pearl Sea, photograph the reflection of Xiannairi, then head to Daocheng County to visit Daocheng White Pagoda and the vast green poplar forest. Accommodation: Daocheng Jinzhu Hotel (4-star), cost-effective with floor heating. Day 5: Daocheng County → Tagong Grassland → Chengdu Pass through Tagong Grassland, enjoy distant views of Yala Snow Mountain, return by evening. 3. Food Recommendations Must-try Specialty Yak Meat Hot Pot: Aishangjun Wild Mushroom Yak Meat Hot Pot (Yading branch) features matsutake and boletus mushrooms paired with yak meat, with a delicious broth. Tibetan Fragrant Pork: Bawa Tibetan Restaurant’s roasted Tibetan fragrant pork has crispy skin and firm meat, best eaten with highland barley cakes. Tujia Wooden Bucket Fish: Baccarat Restaurant’s signature dish, tender fish with rich soup, kept warm in a wooden bucket. Snack Recommendation Butter Tea: Tibetan Cool Hot Pot (Daocheng branch) offers salty butter tea, which paired with tsampa helps relieve altitude sickness. Highland Barley Wine: Waze Township Lam Tea House’s highland barley wine and tsampa cakes, authentic Tibetan flavor. 4. Accommodation Recommendations High-End Choice Yading Risong Gongbu Crowne Plaza Hotel: 5-star standard, built on the mountain, 80% of rooms have snow mountain views, offers Tibetan-style pot dance evenings. Songtsam Yading Mountain Residence: Boutique guesthouse with snow mountain views from the window, offers paid shuttle service. Cost-Effective Choice Daocheng Mama Boutique Courtyard: Located in Shangri-La Town, Tibetan style, provides free oxygen tanks, suitable for families. Daocheng Jinzhu Hotel: 4-star standard, includes floor heating and breakfast, only a 10-minute walk to Daocheng White Pagoda. 5. Pitfall Avoidance Guide and Practical Tips For altitude sickness, take Rhodiola 7 days in advance; after arrival, avoid bathing and strenuous exercise; prepare oral glucose solution and ibuprofen for headache relief. If blood oxygen is below 90%, use oxygen immediately; severe vomiting or unconsciousness requires quick descent. Transportation and Tickets: Self-driving requires an SUV or off-road vehicle; the road from Litang to Daocheng has many bends; bring snow chains during the rainy season. Yading Scenic Area ticket is 266 RMB (including sightseeing bus); a second entry requires an additional 60 RMB for the sightseeing bus. Cultural Taboos: Do not step on prayer flags or knock over mani stones; photography is prohibited inside temples; do not point at Buddha statues. Respect Tibetan customs; do not photograph locals without permission. Conclusion The beauty of Daocheng lies in the purity of its snow mountains and lakes, the mystery of Tibetan culture, and the dialogue with nature during hiking. Bring this guide, avoid the crowds, and measure the purity and shock of the "Last Pure Land on the Blue Planet" with your footsteps!

Not in Switzerland, but Western Sichuan from June to August leaves you speechless with its beauty. Only those who have been there can truly say... People often ask me, what is the magic of Western Sichuan? It wasn't until I actually set foot on this land that I understood - Western Sichuan isn't just a simple place name, but a spiritual journey, a reunion with one's true self. Only those who have been to Western Sichuan can say that the clouds here breathe. Standing atop Zheduo Mountain, you feel like you could reach out and pull down a piece of cloud. They float lazily like cotton at times, then rapidly transform under the wind's command, chasing sunlight to cast ever-changing shadows across the vast land. When the clouds hang low, they merge with distant snow-capped mountains, blurring the line between cloud and snow, leaving you feeling like you're in a dreamlike realm. Only those who have been to Western Sichuan can say that every lake here holds secrets. Milk Lake resembles a blue teardrop fallen from heaven, surrounded by snow mountains, its waters displaying an extraordinary blue under sunlight - from pale to deep - as if containing endless untold stories. Meanwhile, Cuoka Lake mirrors the sky like an exquisite looking glass, embracing blue skies, white clouds, green trees and mountains in its reflection. Fish swimming in the lake create ripples that break the tranquility while adding vibrant energy. Only those who have been to Western Sichuan can say that faith here carries awe-inspiring power. In Sertar, countless red houses blaze across mountain slopes like flames, while monks in crimson robes come and go, their chanting rising and falling in waves. In that moment, restless hearts find sudden peace. Watching their devout concentration, one understands the purity and steadfastness of faith - not mere ritual, but soul-deep devotion and pursuit. Only those who have been to Western Sichuan can say that every road here tells stories. The winding Heavenly 18 Bends challenge drivers at every turn; bumpy dirt roads kick up dust clouds but lead to the most pristine landscapes. Along the way, you'll meet warm-hearted Tibetan locals whose radiant smiles and sincere greetings dispel travel weariness. You'll also encounter kindred spirits - fellow travelers sharing meals and dreams, forging precious bonds under these vast skies. When leaving Western Sichuan, my camera was full of beautiful scenes, but my heart held an inexpressible longing. Every mountain, river, plant and tree here whispers the most moving tales. Only after visiting Western Sichuan did I understand that travel isn't just about seeing the world's beauty, but about meeting a more authentic, open-hearted version of yourself along the way. Perhaps this is Western Sichuan's magic - once visited, never forgotten; though departed, already yearning for the next reunion.

| 14 Hidden Gems Perfect for Solo Adventurers, Where Healing Meets Adventure. 1. **Lijiang Old Town (Yunnan)** Keywords: Slow living · Naxi culture · Snow mountain reflections Why go: Wander cobblestone streets alongside babbling streams, enjoy the tranquil Square Street before tourist crowds arrive. Blue Moon Valley beneath Jade Dragon Snow Mountain offers fairy-tale views, while Naxi music bars under red lanterns at dusk provide soul-soothing moments. Must-do: - Sunrise hike up Jade Dragon Snow Mountain for panoramic views as clouds disperse. - Experience Mosuo matriarchal culture at Lugu Lake, watching sunrise from a dugout canoe. 2. **Qinghai Lake (Qinghai)** Keywords: Lake-sky harmony · Cycling freedom · Sky Mirror Why go: China's largest saltwater lake dazzles with golden rapeseed blooms (July-Sept). Cycling the lake loop reveals epic vistas, while Chaka Salt Lake's sunset reflections create a "mirror of heaven." Pro tip: - Stay at West Lake Road B&Bs for sunrise views; Jiangxigou to Heimahe section offers the best cycling scenery. - Pack sunscreen and windproof gear for intense plateau UV rays. 3. **Chongzuo (Guangxi)** Keywords: Borderland secrets · Karst landscapes · Transnational waterfall Why go: This Vietnam-border hideout boasts thunderous Detian Waterfall and poetic Mingshi countryside, perfect for solo explorers seeking offbeat beauty. Must-do: - Bamboo raft ride to witness Detian's "three-stage plunge." - Cycle through Mingshi's pastoral scenes, filming location for drama *The Journey of Flower*. 4. **Gulangyu Island (Xiamen)** Keywords: Artsy isle · Piano melodies · Serendipitous corners Why go: Car-free lanes blend European architecture with Minnan charm. Discover hidden cafés or soak in Xiamen University's youthful vibe away from crowds. Hidden gems: - Dawn photos at "Most Beautiful Corner," afternoon reads at Bookworm Hole bookstore. - Sample oyster omelets at Zengcuo'an night market, where fishing village meets bohemia. 5. **Mogao Caves (Dunhuang, Gansu)** Keywords: Millennium-old frescoes · Desert solitude · Silk Road epics Why go: Buddhist murals narrate Silk Road history, while Crescent Moon Spring's desert sunset offers solitary romance. Deep dive: - Book morning guided tours (9-11am for best lighting) to decode cave stories. - Overnight desert camping under starry skies, embracing frontier poetry. 6. **Dali (Yunnan)** Keywords: Romantic vistas · Erhai cycling · Bai culture Why go: Lakeside cafés, Old Town morning noodle markets invite relaxation. Shuanglang's waterfront B&Bs offer rooms that open to glittering waves. Itinerary: - Bike Erhai's loop, stopping for Xizhou's flaky pastry. - Hike Cangshan Mountain for aerial lake views. 7. **Daocheng Yading (Sichuan)** Keywords: Shangri-La · Alpine trekking · Highland sanctuary Why go: "Last Shangri-La" dazzles with pristine Milk Lake and Five-Color Lake. Autumn paints red grasslands against snow peaks like an oil painting. Heads up: - Acclimate to altitude; carry oxygen for treks. - Dawn at "Sunshine Golden Mountain" for Jambeyang Peak's glory. 8. **Xiapu (Fujian)** Keywords: Tidal lightplay · Fishing village life · Photographer's paradise Why go: Tidal rhythms and cloudscapes create magic—Dongbi's sunsets and Shajiang's bamboo-pole patterns heal solo travelers' lenses. Best seasons: April-June for seaweed harvest; Oct-Dec for laver farming scenes. 9. **Yangshuo (Guangxi)** Keywords: Li River scenery · Bamboo rafting · Pastoral poetry Why go: Drift through painted landscapes on Yulong River, then savor West Street's nightlife without losing solitude. Experiences: - Moon Hill and Banyan Tree cycling route. - *Impression Liu Sanjie* outdoor show—where nature meets culture. 10. **Chengdu (Sichuan)** Keywords: Laidback living · Teahouse culture · Culinary therapy Why go: Sip tea at People's Park, enjoy Sichuan opera in alleys—even solo hotpot feels festive here. Secret moves: - Nighttime strolls through lantern-lit Jinli sans crowds. - Dawn panda-watching at base as "fluffballs" munch bamboo. **Travel Tips** Safety: Pack sun protection/meds for highlands; share itineraries. Planning: Use "three-point alignment" (attractions/lodging/transit) with flexible mapping. Tool: Huawei Petal Maps now integrates Trip.com notes for one-click itinerary building. **Final Note** Solo travel is self-discovery—whether meditating beneath peaks or stumbling upon ancient lane surprises, these destinations expand your world, one step at a time.

💕"There is a place called Daocheng, and I want to go there with the one I love most to see the blue sky, the white snow-capped mountains, the golden grassland, and a fairy tale in the fall." 🌍"The last tear on the blue planet" Here, you can indeed see the most beautiful scenery in the world, but your body is also exhausted to the point of collapse. It is true that "👀your eyes are in heaven, and your body is in hell." The land of Daocheng Yading and the thin air are filled with the most authentic breath of nature. Standing under the snow-capped mountains and looking up at the white peaks that pierce the sky, all that remains in my heart is amazement at the miraculous craftsmanship of nature. Milk Lake is like a forgotten sapphire, inlaid in the mountains. The surrounding alpine vegetation and the distant rolling mountains form a beautiful landscape painting, making people wonder if this is the back garden of the gods? Hiking through it, every step is like a dialogue with the world. The limits of physical strength and the shock of the soul are intertwined. I feel my insignificance, but I also find inner peace in this pure land. In Daocheng Yading, time seems to stand still, leaving only pure nature and the most authentic self.

#hikingtime The trek from Daocheng Yading to Milk Lake (牛奶海) is one of the most breathtaking hiking experiences in China, often described as a walk through the last Shangri-La. This high-altitude trail offers stunning landscapes that encapsulate the raw, untouched beauty of the Tibetan Plateau. Spectacular Natural Scenery The hike starts from the mystical Daocheng Yading Nature Reserve, renowned for its three sacred mountains, which are believed to be the embodiment of wisdom, power, and compassion. As you journey towards Milk Lake, the path unwinds through lush meadows, dense forests, and alongside crystal-clear streams, all set against a backdrop of majestic snow-capped peaks. The high point of the trek is undoubtedly Milk Lake itself, a stunning turquoise body of water named for its milky white color, surrounded by stark high-altitude wilderness. Challenging Yet Rewarding Trek The trail to Milk Lake is both challenging and rewarding. Situated at an altitude of over 4,600 meters, the hike tests your physical stamina and acclimatization to the thin mountain air. However, the path is well-marked and can be navigated with a moderate level of hiking experience. The trek usually takes about four to six hours one way, depending on your pace and the time spent admiring the scenery. Photographer’s Paradise For photography enthusiasts, the trek offers endless opportunities to capture the awe-inspiring beauty of the region. From panoramic vistas of the grand mountains to intimate shots of exotic flora and fauna, each step presents a new tableau worthy of capture. The reflective waters of Milk Lake, with the sacred mountains as a backdrop, make for a particularly compelling photograph, especially early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the light is softest. Visitor Tips - Best Time to Visit: The best months to hike are from May to October when the weather is most stable and the paths are clear of snow. - Prepare for the Altitude: Make sure to spend a few days acclimatizing in Daocheng or Yading Village before attempting the hike to avoid altitude sickness. - Gear Up: Wear sturdy hiking boots, carry layers of clothing to adjust to the rapidly changing weather, and pack essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit. - Local Guides: Consider hiring a local guide who can provide insights into the cultural significance of the area as well as ensure your safety on the trail. #DaochengYading #MilkLake #TibetanPlateau #HikingAdventures #NaturePhotography

#gohiking Nestled within the vast expanse of Yading Nature Reserve, Milk Sea, or Niunai Hai, is a breathtaking destination that epitomizes the pristine beauty of the region. This ancient glacial lake, set at an altitude of 4500 meters, offers one of the most visually stunning hiking experiences in China. The journey to Milk Sea begins at Luorong Yak Ranch and typically takes 4-5 hours. Hikers traverse a challenging yet rewarding path that was recently enhanced in 2019 with a new boardwalk. Despite these improvements, reaching Milk Sea remains a demanding endeavor due to the high altitude and rugged terrain. The hike itself is an adventure, winding through diverse landscapes and offering panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and lush valleys. As you approach Milk Sea, the scenery transforms dramatically. The lake itself, known locally as Erongtso, appears like a jewel nestled among the mountains. It is renowned for its stunning shades of blue and green waters, surrounded by a unique rim of milky white sand, which gives the lake its name. The contrast between the vibrant lake and the white sand creates a surreal, picturesque setting, perfect for photography and peaceful reflection. The lake is not just a natural wonder but also holds cultural significance. Local legends hail it as a holy lake with the power to cure hoarseness, adding an element of mystique to its already captivating presence. Visiting Milk Sea is a physical and spiritual journey, pushing you to your limits while rewarding you with some of the most splendid natural sights in Yading Park. The effort to reach this remote lake is worthwhile, as it offers a peaceful escape and a moment to connect with nature at one of the highest and most serene spots in the park. For anyone planning this hike, it’s crucial to be well-prepared with suitable hiking gear and to be mindful of the altitude. Milk Sea is a destination that challenges and charms, making it a must-visit for avid hikers and nature lovers exploring Yading. #MilkLake #YadingNatureReserve #HikingAdventure #SichuanTravels #HighAltitudeLakes #NaturePhotography #SpiritualJourney #ChinaLandscapes

The long route is currently closed 🚫 Milk Lake and Five-Color Lake are temporarily inaccessible! But Gongga Cuo and Zhuoma La Cuo remain as stunning as ever 🙋‍♀️ As someone who's been there, I feel Yading isn't just about the lakes—the essence of Yading is experiencing a valley filled with forests, meadows, and streams while admiring the snow-capped mountains 🏔️ 📍 Recommended Route: Half Long Route + Short Route 👉 Perfect for those with limited stamina or visiting the plateau for the first time, easily covering 80% of Yading's beauty. Here's the detailed itinerary: ⏰ 8:00 Enter the park and take the bus to Zhaguanbeng Service Area (sit on the left for better views) ⏰ 9:00 Take the electric cart to Luorong Pasture (ask the driver to stop at Shenshui Gate Station for snow mountain reflections) ⏰ 9:10 Walk from Shenshui Gate along the trail to Luorong Pasture—a scenic snow mountain road ⏰ 9:40 Arrive at Luorong Pasture Viewing Platform (missed if taking the cart; only accessible by walking) ⏰ 10:00 Reach Luorong Pasture Service Area—play by the streams and see herds of yaks and horses under the snow peaks ⏰ 12:00 Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Luorong Pasture Service Area with mountain views ⏰ 1:00 Take the electric cart back to Zhaguanbeng, then head to Chonggu Temple (with a massive snow mountain behind it) ⏰ 2:00 Depart from Chonggu Temple to Xianbao Lake, trekking through primeval forests (spot squirrels and monkeys) ⏰ 3:00 Arrive at Xianbao Lake (only filled with water in summer) ⏰ 3:30 Walk to Zhuoma La Cuo—an emerald-green lake with breathtaking snow mountain views. Follow the boardwalk deeper into the valley for up-close snow peaks ⏰ 4:00 Complete the loop on the boardwalk and descend ⏰ 4:30 Arrive at Chonggu Meadow—soft light perfect for photos of streams, grasslands, and the temple ⏰ 5:00 If energy allows, wait for sunset to paint Yangmaiyong Peak in pink-gold—absolutely stunning~ ⭕ Summary: Only 1 hour of uphill hiking, with the rest being flat or downhill walks (~4 km total). Even in bad weather, the experience remains enjoyable. 🚗 【5-Day Daocheng + Siguniangshan Itinerary】 D1: Chengdu - Honghaizi - Yuzixi - Xinduqiao D2: Litang - Haizi Mountain - Daocheng White Pagoda - Shangri-La Town D3: Daocheng Yading In-Depth Day Tour - Daocheng County D4: Daocheng - Tagong Grassland - Moshi Park - Danba D5: Siguniangshan·Shuangqiao Valley - Maobiliang Viewing Platform - Chengdu

At the pinnacle of Western Sichuan Plateau, three sacred mountains guard the "last pure land on Earth"—Daocheng Yading. Mount Chenrezig resembles a merciful Guanyin gazing downward, Mount Jampelyang stands like a sword piercing the sky, and Mount Chanadorje spreads its wings like an eagle. Nestled among these snow-capped peaks, Milk Lake and Five-Color Lake shimmer with jade and lapis lazuli hues. Our 2025 off-peak route + altitude sickness guide ensures a safe journey through this "body's hell, eyes' paradise." 🏔️ 1. Core Attractions 1. Must-Visit Spots in the Scenic Area Three Sacred Lakes: ✅ Milk Lake (4,600m): A glacial meltwater lake glowing like sapphire under sunlight. ✅ Five-Color Lake (4,700m): Mineral-rich waters shifting between blue, green, gold, and red—a holy lake in Tibetan Buddhism. ✅ Pearl Lake: Perfect for capturing Mount Chenrezig’s reflection, ideal for short hikes. Sacred Mountain Viewpoints: ✅ Luorong Pasture: Best vantage for Mount Jampelyang, featured in the film *I Belonged to You*. ✅ Chonggu Monastery: Red-walled, golden-roofed temple at Mount Chenrezig’s base, where prayer wheels spin blessings. 🌟 2. Unique Experiences & Must-Try Cuisine Pilgrimage Rituals: Spin prayer wheels at Chonggu Monastery, listen to chants mingling with fluttering prayer flags. Starry Nights: Stay overnight in Yading Village (recommended: Zhaxi Kongshu Hotel) to witness the Milky Way draping over snow peaks. Culinary Delights: ✅ Yak Meat Hotpot ("Ama Kitchen" in Shangri-La Town—tender meat, rich broth) ✅ Matsutake Chicken Soup (seasonal, umami-packed wild mushrooms) ✅ Tsampa Bread with Butter Tea (altitude sickness remedy) 🗺️ 3. Detailed Itinerary 【3 Days & 2 Nights · Classic Pilgrimage】For time-crunched/first-time visitors Day 1: Acclimatization Morning: Fly from Chengdu to Daocheng Yading Airport (1.5h) → Airport bus to Shangri-La Town (3h, ¥85). Afternoon: Check into Shangri-La Town (2,900m altitude, opt for "Gongsang Holiday Hotel") → Avoid exertion, explore Tibetan shops at Locke Square. Dinner: Yak hotpot ("Snowland Yak Hotpot") + butter tea to warm up. Day 2: Long Route Challenge (Milk Lake + Five-Color Lake) 7:00: Scenic shuttle (¥120) to Zhaguanbeng (1h) → Walk/electric cart (¥50 one-way) to Luorong Pasture. 9:00-15:00: Trek 5km to Milk Lake (3-4h) → Five-Color Lake (0.5km) → Must reach Five-Color Lake entrance by 14:30 (else turn back). Tip: Horse rides end 1.5km before Milk Lake (¥300-500); buy oxygen tanks in town (¥80 in park). Day 3: Short Route Culture + Return Morning: Shuttle to Chonggu Monastery → Hike to Pearl Lake (1.5h round-trip) → Photograph Mount Chenrezig’s reflection. Noon: Buy souvenirs before departure (yak jerky, tsampa bread). ⚠️ 4. 2025 Pro Tips Altitude Sickness: Take Rhodiola supplements 7 days prior; avoid showers/strenuous activity on arrival. Pack glucose oral solution. Stay cautiously in Yading Village (4,060m); Shangri-La Town (2,900m) eases acclimatization. Transport: Rent an SUV for self-drive (Chengdu-Daocheng 800km, 2 days); carry tire chains post-October. Park shuttle is mandatory; electric carts optional (3h walk from Luorong Pasture). Packing List: ✅ 3-in-1 windbreaker (20°C day-night swings) + waterproof hiking boots ✅ Sun protection trio (SPF50+ cream, sunglasses, face mask) ✅ Thermos (mountain spring refills at Lengcuixia) + ¥500 cash (spotty signal) Tickets: Peak season (Apr 1-Nov 30) ¥146 entry + ¥120 shuttle; students/seniors (60-69) half-price. As Five-Color Lake’s ripples refract rainbows and Luorong’s prayer flags carry wishes skyward, you’ll grasp Daocheng Yading’s essence—not a conquest of nature, but a solemn truce between humanity and mountains. Here, measure faith in footsteps, touch eternity with each breath, and at 4,700m, rediscover life’s clarity and awe.

Nestled in the hidden depths of the Western Sichuan Plateau, Songtsam Linka Hotel stands like a living museum of Tibetan culture in Renzhong Village, Shangri-La Town at the entrance of Daocheng Yading Scenic Area. As the flagship property of Songtsam Hotels in Western Sichuan, it serves not only as an ideal base for exploring Yading but also as a cultural space where guests can immerse themselves in Tibetan lifestyle aesthetics. 🏨 Location & Brand Story Located in Renzhong Village, Shangri-La Town, Daocheng County, Sichuan Province, the hotel is about 1.5 hours from Daocheng Yading Airport and just 10 minutes from Yading Visitor Center. Founded by Tibetan Baima Dorje with the vision of "stringing pearls along the Ancient Tea-Horse Road," Songtsam's Linka series represents its premium resort collection. Situated at 2,900m altitude in a river valley, it offers stunning views of snow-capped mountains, forests, and streams while minimizing altitude sickness risks. 🌆 Architecture & Design The property comprises 12 Tibetan-style stone buildings spread across 70,000㎡. Local slate walls provide natural temperature regulation. The lobby features a giant hand-painted thangka depicting Tibetan Buddhist cosmology. Flagstone paths connect buildings, adorned with prayer flags, mani stones, and prayer wheels, creating a profound spiritual atmosphere. 🛏 Signature Room Types 52 rooms in three categories: 1. Tibetan Deluxe (60㎡): Panoramic balcony, floor heating, natural stone bathrooms, some with saunas. 2. Family Suite (90㎡): Separate children's room with Tibetan toys/books, kid-friendly amenities. 3. Linka Suite (120㎡): Tibetan living room with antique furniture, includes incense-making experience. 🚌 Transportation Guide - By Air: Fly to Daocheng Yading Airport (one of world's highest civilian airports), paid airport transfer available. - Overland Options: - 14-hour drive from Chengdu via G318 (recommend 2-day journey) - 8-hour ride from Shangri-La City, Yunnan, passing Jinsha River Bend - Acclimatization: Spend 1 day in Shangri-La Town before ascending to higher-altitude Yading. ⛺ Cultural Experiences Daily Tibetan activities: - Mornings: Join butlers for monastery morning rituals (Tibetan attire required) - Workshops: - Thangka painting (2-hour session with mineral pigment guidance) - Tibetan incense making (30+ alpine plant formulas) - Signature SPA: Combines Tibetan herbal baths with aromatherapy ("Plateau Revival" recommended) 🍩 Dining Highlights Black Pearl-recommended restaurant for 3 consecutive years: - Must-tries: - Matsutake hotpot with free-range Tibetan chicken - Yak yogurt with wild honey - Themed Dinners: - Tibetan feast every Wed/Sat (reservation required, includes performances) - Mountain-view outdoor dining (weather permitting) - Custom trekking meals for Yading hikers 🏬 Nearby Itineraries Three recommended routes: 1. Wilderness Explorer (1 day): - AM: Hike in Echu Mountain primeval forest (40min drive) - PM: Visit Tibetan villages, experience yak milking 2. Pilgrimage Journey (2 days): - Day 1: Yading long route (Luorong Pasture → Milk Lake) - Day 2: Chonggu Monastery circumambulation, Pearl Lake meditation 3. Photography Special: - Sunrise: Hotel's backyard viewpoint - Stargazing: Ancient watchtower ruins in Renzhong 💴 Pricing & Booking All-inclusive policy covers: - Daily breakfast for two - Afternoon tea - Two cultural activities - Seasonal Rates: - Shoulder (May-Jun/Sep-Oct): ¥2,800-4,500/night - Peak (Jul-Aug/National Day): 30-50% surcharge - Special: "Kora Journey" 3-night package (includes Yading VIP access) 🧡 Highland Travel Tips 1. Health: - 24-hour oxygen system - Altitude physician consultation 2. Packing: - Essentials: SPF50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, hydrating masks - Recommended: Hiking boots, windbreaker, thermos 3. Cultural Etiquette: - Never step on prayer flags - No photography in temples - Always rotate prayer wheels clockwise Here, you won't find gilded decor but priceless cultural encounters; no standardized service but heartfelt care from Tibetan hosts. When dawn light dances on prayer flags and butter tea aroma fills the air, you'll realize this isn't just accommodation—it's a spiritual journey into Tibet's soul. For more Sichuan travel plans and customized services, consult our local experts to design your perfect itinerary—whether family trips, group tours, or romantic getaways. Enjoy seamless end-to-end services by clicking "Chat with Me" for your personalized proposal. Daocheng Yading | Sichuan, China | Western Sichuan

Want to visit Daocheng Yading but worried about altitude sickness ruining your trip? Don't panic! This carefully crafted 5-day itinerary covers practical anti-altitude sickness tips, breathtaking attractions, and local delicacies to help you comfortably explore "the last pure land on the blue planet"! 1. Detailed Ticket Information - Entrance fee: ¥150 (mandatory) - grants access to Yading Scenic Area's magnificent landscapes. - Sightseeing bus: ¥120 (mandatory) - takes you directly from the visitor center to Zhaguanbeng, saving long walking distances so you can save energy for the scenic spots. - Electric cart: Round trip ¥80 (optional) - recommended for quick transport from Chonggu Meadow to Luorong Pasture, conserving energy for hiking. - Horse riding: ¥300 - not highly recommended due to relatively short distance and potential variable riding conditions. 2. Recommended Classic Routes (1) Yading Short Route (Half day) Visitor Center → Sightseeing Bus → Yading Village → Sightseeing Bus → Zhaguanbeng → Walk → Chonggu Temple → Walk → Zhuoma Laco (Pearl Lake). This easier route features ancient Chonggu Temple and Pearl Lake nestled among mountains, reflecting the sacred Mount Chenrezig. (2) Yading Long Route (Full day) Visitor Center → Sightseeing Bus → Yading Village → Sightseeing Bus → Zhaguanbeng → Walk → Chonggu Meadow → Electric Cart → Luorong Pasture → Walk → Milk Lake → Walk → Five-Color Lake. This comprehensive route showcases vast pastures at Luorong, turquoise Milk Lake, and color-changing Five-Color Lake - each spot worth lingering. 3. Complete Altitude Sickness Prevention Guide With average elevation over 3,000m, proper preparation is crucial: - Clothing: Pack 3-in-1 windproof jackets for large temperature swings, plus hats, neck gaiters, sunglasses, and gloves for warmth and sun protection. - Gear: Comfortable hiking boots and trekking poles reduce leg strain; carry disposable raincoats and emergency blankets for unpredictable weather. - Food: Bring high-energy snacks like tsampa pancakes and beef jerky for long hikes, with chocolate for quick energy boosts and hot water for warmth. - Pre-trip adjustment: Start drinking cola daily when planning your Sichuan trip for sugar intake, supplemented with glucose to aid acclimatization. - Medication: Take Gaoyuan'an (3 pills, 3 times daily after arrival) to enhance oxygen adaptation - no need for pre-trip consumption. 4. 5-Day Highlight Itinerary D1: Chengdu → 434 Airport Road → Honghaizi → Yuzixi → Xinduqiao Depart Chengdu along scenic 434 Airport Road. Stop at mirror-like Honghaizi lake reflecting snow mountains, then enjoy panoramic sunset at Yuzixi before staying in "photographer's paradise" Xinduqiao with Tibetan village views. D2: Xinduqiao → Tianlu 18 Bends → Litang Letong Ancient Town → Shangri-La Town Navigate dramatic Tianlu mountain switchbacks, explore Tibetan culture in Litang's ancient streets and Renkang Old House, then rest in Shangri-La Town for next day's Yading adventure. D3: Shangri-La Town → Yading Scenic Area → Daocheng County Full-day Yading exploration (choose short/long route). Savor local yak meat hotpot and butter tea in Daocheng. D4: Daocheng County → Litang → Tagong Grassland → Moshi Park → Bamei/Danba Return via Litang to vast Tagong Grassland with sacred Yala Mountain views, then otherworldly stone forests at Moshi Park. Overnight in Bamei/Danba. D5: Bamei/Danba → Shuangqiao Valley (Mt. Siguniang) → Maobiliang → Chengdu Explore Shuangqiao Valley's snow peaks and lakes by shuttle bus, capture Four Sisters Mountain panorama at Maobiliang, then return to Chengdu. Daocheng Yading's beauty deserves slow appreciation. Follow this guide to prevent altitude sickness while deeply experiencing Western Sichuan's magic - start your dream journey now!

Suddenly, I wanted to compile a snow mountain photo album, collecting all the snow mountains I've encountered over the years during my arduous journeys. Having traveled through Tibet and Xinjiang, countless unknown snow peaks have passed me by; here, I'll only record those companions whose names I know. * **P1-3: Namcha Barwa** - An encounter at Pingcuo Kangsang in Sosong Village. In the rainy season of June, I was fortunate enough to witness its complete "golden mountain under the sun" phenomenon; the soul-stirring shock of that moment remains unforgettable. The next morning, although the sea of clouds obscured the peak, the mountain body, like a giant screen, still exuded a breathtaking sense of oppression. * **P4: Jialong Gongmei Gamo** - The view outside the window of Songtsam Bomi Hotel. Locals say her name means "fairy in white." Nestled by the Parlung Tsangpo River, her serenity and gentleness truly live up to the title of a fairy. Not being able to see her full form left a slight regret. * **P5: Miancimu (Goddess Peak)** - One of the Meili Prince Thirteen Peaks. Photographed at Feilai Temple during the faint blue dawn. The beauty of her mountain shape is truly unparalleled. * **P6: Jiwa Ren'an (Five-Crown Peak)** - Also part of the Meili Peaks, its shape resembles the Five-Buddha Crown worn by Bodhisattvas, solemn and unique. * **P7: Kawagarbo** - The peak of the Meili Peaks. That morning, framed with Five-Crown Peak at the Feilai Temple observation deck, it was an ultimate "golden mountain under the sun" feast, a gratitude forever etched in my heart. * **P8-9: Baima Snow Mountain** - An unexpected surprise while traversing old National Highway 214. After a certain bend, its majestic body unexpectedly burst into view, its close-up grandeur astonishing. This encounter was in early December; had it been two weeks earlier, the autumn colors covering the forests would surely have added more charm. * **P10: Muztagh Ata** - Impressions from Buzhoushan Camp. Although I didn't see its full form, that touch of pink glow in the early morning softened the mountains. Most unforgettable were the several glaciers that seemed to tear through the mountain and rush down, majestic and grand. * **P11: Gongger Jiubie Peak** - Also photographed at Buzhoushan Camp. The sunset melted into gold, and the evening glow draped it in splendid attire, so beautiful it was intoxicating, I couldn't take my eyes off it. * **P12: Eighteen Arhat Peaks** - The desolate painting of Muji Volcano Crater. Though not as famous as the former, it's a personal favorite. The crater and wetlands form the foreground, with eighteen snow peaks in the distance like an array of Arhats, neat and solemn, fully displaying grandeur amidst the vast world. * **P13: Xiannairi** - Memories from Chonggu Temple observation deck. During a trip to Daocheng Yading many years ago, the first day's hike exhausted me. The next day, the weather cleared, and I took photos by Chonggu Temple. Yading in autumn is indeed like a fairyland, worth revisiting, but the path to Milk Lake and Five-Color Lake, I probably won't walk again. * **P14: Xianuoduoji (Speculation)** - Also photographed near Chonggu Temple. It was backlit in the morning; judging by the mountain shape and position, it should be Xianuoduoji. After organizing these images, I realized that when facing the divine wonders created by nature, any flowery words seem pale. Only repeated "magnificent" and "awe-inspiring" can barely express a fraction of what's in my heart. My love for snow mountains is eternal. My steps will not stop, only to pursue more natural wonders. Because, the mountain is there, where my heart leads.

Best travel time: - May-June: Spring, when grasslands turn green and wildflowers bloom. - July-August: Summer, with cool weather, perfect for escaping the heat. - September-October: Autumn, when forests display vibrant colors, especially the red grasslands and golden poplar forests, creating spectacular views. . 🏷️Tickets: Yading Scenic Area ticket: 150 RMB/person; Sightseeing bus: 120 RMB/person (round trip); Electric cart: 80 RMB/person (round trip). . 🚥Transportation: ✈️Flight: Daocheng Yading Airport (4,411m altitude, the world's highest civilian airport). About 1.5-hour drive from the airport to Daocheng town. 🚗Self-drive: From Chengdu, take National Highway 318 via Kangding, Xinduqiao, and Litang to Daocheng. Total distance is about 750km, taking approximately 12-14 hours. . ⭐Main attractions: 📍Three Sacred Mountains: Chenrezig (6,032m), Jampelyang (5,958m), and Chanadorje (5,958m) are Yading's three sacred peaks, representing Avalokiteshvara, Manjushri, and Vajrapani respectively. 📍Pearl Lake: At the foot of Chenrezig Mountain, its crystal-clear waters mirror the snow-capped peaks. 📍Five-Color Lake: The lake displays varying colors due to light and mineral changes. 📍Milk Lake: With milky-white waters surrounded by snow mountains, offering magnificent scenery. 📍Daocheng Red Grassland: Near Daocheng town, where red grasslands and golden poplar forests create enchanting autumn views. 📍Haizi Mountain: Between Daocheng and Litang, featuring the largest ancient glacial cap remains on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau with numerous lakes of varying sizes. 📍Chonggu Monastery: A Tibetan Buddhist temple within Yading, surrounded by beautiful scenery and serving as the starting point for hikes to Pearl Lake and Five-Color Lake. . 🛏️Accommodation recommendations: ⛳️Daocheng Town: Various options from budget to high-end hotels, ideal as a rest stop before entering Yading. ⛳️Yading Village: Inside the scenic area with basic facilities but convenient for early entry; advance booking recommended. ⛳️Shangri-La Town: Near Yading with better accommodations, suitable for visitors preferring not to stay within the scenic area. . 📈Itinerary suggestions: 🎈3-day itinerary: ①: Chengdu/Kangding - Daocheng (enroute sights include Haizi Mountain, Red Grassland) ②: Daocheng - Yading Scenic Area (visit Pearl Lake, Chonggu Monastery) ③: Yading (Five-Color Lake, Milk Lake) - Return to Daocheng 🎈5-day itinerary: 1️⃣: Chengdu - Kangding - Xinduqiao 2️⃣: Xinduqiao - Litang - Daocheng 3️⃣: Daocheng Yading (Pearl Lake, Chonggu Monastery) 4️⃣: Yading (Five-Color Lake, Milk Lake) - Return to Daocheng 5️⃣: Daocheng

Introduction to Ganzi Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture is located in the western part of Sichuan Province, on the southeastern edge of the Kham-Tibetan Plateau. It is a prefecture-level administrative region primarily inhabited by the Tibetan ethnic group, commonly known as the Kham region or Kham, and is the main body and core area of the second-largest Tibetan region in China—Kham. This is the homeland of love songs, the birthplace of Khampa culture, the hometown of King Gesar, and the core area of Shangri-La. Within its borders lie the Hengduan Mountain Range, the Shaluli and Daxue Mountain Ranges, as well as three major rivers: the Jinsha, Yalong, and Dadu Rivers. Rich in both natural and cultural resources, it boasts famous scenic areas such as Daocheng Yading, the Kangding Love Song Scenic Area, and the Mozi Stone Park Scenic Area. Three-Day, Two-Night Travel Guide to Ganzi - Day 1: Arrive in Kangding in the morning and visit Paoma Mountain to learn about the cultural background of the "Kangding Love Song." In the afternoon, head to the Kangding Love Song Scenic Area for hiking, water activities, and soaking in natural hot springs. - Day 2: Spend the whole day exploring Daocheng Yading, admiring the stunning snow-capped mountains like Yangmaiyong and Xianuoduoji, and viewing highland lakes such as Pearl Lake and Milk Lake. Experience the charm of high-altitude trekking. - Day 3: In the morning, visit the Mozi Stone Park Scenic Area to see the gray stone forests formed by unique geological processes, as if stepping onto an alien planet. In the afternoon, head to Bamei Town to experience local Tibetan culture and enjoy the picturesque grassland scenery.

Folks, the essence of hiking lies in feeling the earth beneath your feet and embracing nature's gifts with your heart and soul 🤩. Today, we bring you 10 breathtaking hiking routes featuring majestic mountains, mysterious cultural sites—save them now~ **Southern Taihang Mountains Hike**: A symphony of red cliffs and ancient villages 🎶 - **Location**: Henan-Shanxi border - **Highlights**: A blend of northern grandeur and southern elegance, with endless red cliffs, awe-inspiring cliffside roads, and serene ancient villages like Guoliang. Experience nature's power and human ingenuity while soaking in unique cultural vibes 💕. - **Difficulty**: ★★★ - **Distance**: 20 - 50 km - **Best time**: May - October, warm weather and stunning views **Tiger Leaping Gorge High Trail**: A thrilling encounter with the Jinsha River 💥 - **Location**: Lijiang, Yunnan - **Highlights**: Hike along cliffside paths between Haba and Jade Dragon Snow Mountains, with the roaring Jinsha River below. Spot mountain goats "strolling" by! - **Difficulty**: ★★★ - **Distance**: ~20 km - **Best time**: April - June, September - October (avoid rainy season) **Daocheng Yading Grand Loop**: Step into a fairy-tale Shangri-La ✨ - **Location**: Garzê, Sichuan - **Highlights**: Marvel at sacred peaks like Chenrezig and Jambeyang, alongside Milk Lake and Five-Color Lake. Autumn foliage against snow-capped mountains creates a dreamy scene. - **Difficulty**: ★★★★ - **Distance**: ~60 km - **Best time**: September - October (vibrant autumn colors) **Mount Kailash Kora**: A spiritual cleansing on the path of faith 🙏 - **Location**: Ngari, Tibet - **Highlights**: Circumnavigate the "center of the world" for multiple religions, with prayer flags fluttering and sacred lakes reflecting snow peaks. A profoundly sacred journey. - **Difficulty**: ★★★★★ - **Distance**: ~52 km - **Best time**: April - June, September - October (stable weather) **Karakul Grassland Hike**: A dreamy canvas at the foot of the Tianshan Mountains 🖼️ - **Location**: Ili, Xinjiang - **Highlights**: Grasslands, forests, snow peaks, and canyons converge here. Summer wildflowers paint a colorful masterpiece. - **Difficulty**: ★★★ - **Distance**: ~80 km - **Best time**: May - August (lush grasslands) **Yubeng Trek**: Exploring paradise beneath Meili Snow Mountain 🧐 - **Location**: Dêqên, Yunnan - **Highlights**: Witness the "Golden Sunrise" on Meili Snow Mountain, trek through primal forests, and feel the magic of sacred waterfalls. Yubeng Village is a tranquil haven. - **Difficulty**: ★★★★ - **Distance**: ~110 km - **Best time**: June - October (clear weather, frequent mountain views) **Wusun Ancient Trail**: A historical journey across the Tianshan Mountains 🕵️ - **Location**: Ili to Aksu, Xinjiang - **Highlights**: Traverse 120 km through the Tianshan, cross Qiongda Pass, and discover "Heavenly Lake." Nature’s grandeur meets historical depth. - **Difficulty**: ★★★★★ - **Distance**: 120 km - **Best time**: June - October (ideal temperatures for long treks) **Changping-Bipeng Valley Trek**: Crossing the "Oriental Alps" ⛰️ - **Location**: Siguniang Mountain, Sichuan - **Highlights**: From Changping Valley to Bipeng Valley, admire Siguniang Mountain’s four peaks, endless snow-capped ranges, alpine meadows, and lakes. - **Difficulty**: ★★★★ - **Distance**: ~44 km - **Best time**: September - October (stunning autumn scenery) **Kula Kangri Trek**: A dreamscape between snow peaks and lakes 🌈 - **Location**: Lhozhag County, Tibet - **Highlights**: Surrounded by glaciers and peaks like Pema Ling Tso and Jiejiu Tso, the lakes mirror the mountains in poetic harmony. - **Difficulty**: ★★★★ - **Distance**: ~30 km - **Best time**: May - October (clear skies for best views) **Medog Trek**: From snow peaks to rainforests 🌴 - **Location**: Nyingchi, Tibet - **Highlights**: Traverse snow mountains, forests, canyons, and rivers, experiencing dramatic climate shifts and unique ethnic cultures like the Monpa people. - **Difficulty**: ★★★★ - **Distance**: ~115 km - **Best time**: August - October (avoid monsoons and leeches)

It's been one day since my Yading trip ended, my legs are still sore, and I have 200 photos on my phone, but I don't know which one truly captures the experience. I'm writing this 'Must-Read Before You Go' real account to help you decide if this trip is for you. 🌿Vegetation: The meadows at Luorong Pasture are lush green, with streams winding through the fluffy grass like flowing silver chains. The alpine rhododendrons along the long route have just started to bud and are expected to be in full bloom by mid-June, when the hiking trails will be surrounded by pink flower walls. 🌞Weather: Sunny. Highland weather is like a blind box, alternating between sun and rain, so it's recommended to wear a waterproof jacket. ➡Crowd: Average daily visitors: thousands. Luorong Pasture horse caravan one-way tickets (300 CNY) can be purchased on arrival, and Milk Lake offers undisturbed photo opportunities. 🎫Tickets: 146 CNY/person, Sightseeing bus: 60 CNY/person ▶ Long Route Challenge (Luorong Pasture → Milk Lake → Five-Color Lake) Distance & Time: Approx. 10 km round trip, 1000 m elevation gain, total duration: 6 hours. The first half is a gentle wooden boardwalk; after passing the 'Horse Caravan End Point', you enter the 'Devil's 1.8 km'. ▶ Short & Easy Route (Chonggu Temple → Pearl Lake) Easy Version: A 1.5-hour round-trip 'sensory feast' with forest trails covered in pine needles and the Xiannairi Snow Mountain appearing and disappearing with your steps. Pearl Lake is like a turquoise gem embedded at the foot of the mountain, reflecting the snow-capped mountain perfectly on windless days, ideal for visitors with altitude sickness or average physical fitness. 🚗Transportation Options: Self-drive vs. Group Tour Self-drive: Some sections of G318 National Highway from Chengdu to Daocheng are bumpy, so it's recommended to rent an SUV (ground clearance ≥ 18cm). Group Tour Preferred: Prioritize small private tours for 2-8 people (approx. 1K+ CNY per person). Stay in Shangri-La Town (elevation 2900 m, much better sleep quality than Yading Village). The driver can assist with purchasing direct shuttle bus tickets for the scenic area, saving you the hassle of queuing. 📅 5-Day Lazy Itinerary Reference (Copy-Paste Version) D1: Chengdu - Kangding - Airport Road - Honghaizi - Yuzixi - Xinduqiao D2: Xinduqiao - Yajiang - Tianlu Shibawan (Eighteen Bends of Sky Road) - Litang - Haizishan - Daocheng/Riwa D3: Yading Scenic Area One-Day Tour - Riwa Town/Daocheng County D4: Daocheng - Litang - Xinduqiao - Tagong - Moshi Park - Bamei/Danba D5: Bamei/Danba - Mount Siguniang - Maobiliang - Yingxiu - Chengdu 💡If you love hiking and enjoy the 'emptiness after exhaustion', Yading is worth adding to your list. The meaning of travel is never about 'checking in', but about 'knowing who you are and what kind of scenery you want to converse with'. Don't know how to explore Western Sichuan? Just tap me💬 – pure play❗small groups❗customized private car tours❗all can be arranged, plus more 2-10 day Sichuan-Tibet/Western Sichuan routes.

Here's an in-depth summer travel guide (June-August) for Daocheng Yading, designed with plateau climate characteristics and seasonal landscapes to ensure safe and comfortable exploration of this pristine land: I. Essential Pre-Trip Checklist 🌡️ Clothing & Gear - Layered outfits: Windproof jacket + fleece liner (for 10-20℃ daytime), lightweight down coat (for sub-zero nights), quick-dry clothes (rainy season protection) - Waterproof essentials: GTX hiking shoes (for muddy trails), waterproof pants (optional), portable raincoat (¥50/pc in scenic area) - Sun protection trio: SPF50+ sunscreen (reapply every 2 hours), wide-brim hat (side protection), cooling arm sleeves 💊 Health Precautions - Altitude sickness: Take Rhodiola oral liquid 7 days prior, use "Gao Yuan An" for headaches upon arrival, carry portable oxygen (¥68/can in park - cheaper in Shangri-La Town) - Emergency meds: Ibuprofen (pain/fever), Smecta (diarrhea), glucose oral solution (quick energy) - Documents: ID card (mandatory), student/senior cards (discounts), border permit (if visiting Xiangcheng) II. Transportation Guide 🚗 External Transport - Flights: Direct from Chengdu to Daocheng Yading Airport (1.5hrs). Note: Airport at 4410m may cause altitude sickness - rest 1 day in Shangri-La Town (2900m) first - Self-drive: Chengdu→Kangding→Xinduqiao→Litang→Daocheng (~16hrs). SUV recommended for winding Xinduqiao-Litang section. Acclimate in Yajiang/Litang - Chartered car: 7-seater from Chengdu ~¥3500/4 days (incl. driver), ideal for families/groups 🚌 Park Transport - Shuttle bus: Main gate→Zharongbeng (¥120/person, 1hr, last bus 16:40) - Electric cart: Chonggu Temple→Luorong Pasture (¥80 round-trip, 20min, last cart 16:00) - Horse riding: Luorong Pasture→Sheshen Cliff (¥300/one-way, limited to 300 horses/day - book 1 day prior) III. Accommodation Strategies 🏨 Tiered Lodging - Night 1: "Risong Gongbu Hotel" in Shangri-La Town (5-star, oxygen system, 80% rooms face snow mountains) - Night 2: "Zhaxi Kongsu Tibetan Culture Hotel" in Yading Village (floor heating + mountain-view windows, 3min walk to shuttle station) - Return night: "Snowland Garden Hot Spring Hotel" in Daocheng (natural hot springs for post-hike recovery) 🌟 Unique Experiences - Stargazing: Yading Village (3900m) offers Milky Way views - "Jianshan Hotel" rooftop recommended - Tibetan culture: "Rock Culture Hotel" provides traditional dress experiences and Thangka painting IV. Core Attractions Deep Dive 🌿 Short Route (2-3hrs): Chonggu Temple→Pearl Lake - Highlights: Mt. Chenrezig reflections, alpine forest ecology - Best time: 7:00-9:00 (fewer crowds, calm lake surface) - Tips: Wooden walkway throughout, 200m altitude gain - bring thermos with hot water ⛰️ Long Route (6-8hrs): Luorong Pasture→Milk Lake→Five-Color Lake - Itinerary: 1. 7:00 Shuttle to Zharongbeng → 10min walk to Chonggu Temple 2. 8:00 E-cart to Luorong Pasture (4180m) 3. 9:00-12:00 Hike to Milk Lake (4600m, ~5km) 4. 13:00-14:30 Descend ridge to Five-Color Lake (4700m) 5. 15:00 Return to Luorong Pasture - Key notes: - Bring energy bars + nuts (no supplies en route) - Best Five-Color Lake viewpoint requires 30min steep climb (right side of ridge) - Fog common after 14:00 - start early V. Itinerary Optimization 🗓️ 5D4N Classic Route - Day1: Chengdu→Kangding (acclimate at Mugecuo)→Xinduqiao (stay at "Photographer's Paradise") - Day2: Xinduqiao→Litang (Letong Ancient Town)→Daocheng (Zunsheng Pagoda Forest)→Shangri-La Town - Day3: Yading short route + Tibetan dinner - Day4: Yading long route + stargazing - Day5: Daocheng (Red Grassland)→Return 📸 Photography Timings - Golden sunrise: 6:30-7:00 (Yading Village Station 1) - Lake colors: Pearl Lake 11:00-14:00 (direct sun), Milk Lake before 10:00 (Tiffany blue in backlight) VI. Pro Tips 🎫 Ticket Discounts - Full package: ¥266 (¥146 entry + ¥120 shuttle), students/seniors (60-65): ¥193 - Next-day re-entry: ¥60 shuttle with original ticket + ID 🍜 Local Cuisine - Tibetan: Yak hotpot + butter tea at "Zhaxi Delek Yak Restaurant" - Sichuan-style: Yak beef noodles + ice jelly at "Loushi Zhang Laozao" ⚠️ Important Notes 1. Fire ban: Lighters prohibited - smoking fine ¥200 2. Eco-rules: Carry trash bags - no bins at Milk Lake 3. Emergency: 3 medical stations provide oxygen/first aid VII. Summer Specials - Rainy season: Foldable umbrella + raincoat (more practical than umbrellas); avoid 15:00-17:00 thunderstorms - Wildflowers: June rhododendrons (Chonggu Meadow), July-Aug wolf's bane (Luorong Pasture) - Sea of clouds: Best 2hrs post-rain at Yading Village observatory With proper planning, you'll experience Daocheng Yading's summer marvels - snow peaks amidst flower seas - while minimizing altitude risks. Drink butter tea post-hike for electrolytes and prioritize sleep. May this guide help create unforgettable memories!

Here is a tailor-made in-depth guide for couples to Yading Daocheng, blending practical details with romantic experiences to help you both fulfill this promise to the "Last Pure Land on the Blue Planet": 🌈 Best Travel Time and Pre-Trip Tips - Golden Season: Late September to October (key point!) Autumn colors like a painting: golden meadows under snow-capped mountains, fiery red maple leaves, and azure lakes intertwined. May is ideal for witnessing fresh spring snow melting and tender grass sprouting in a refreshing fairyland. - Plateau Adaptation: Prepare Rhodiola oral liquid in advance; avoid bathing and strenuous exercise on the first day. Must bring down jackets, windbreakers (due to large temperature differences between day and night), sunscreen (strong UV rays), and trekking poles (to save energy while hiking). - Transportation: Prefer direct flights from Chengdu to Daocheng Yading Airport (about 65 minutes), then take the airport shuttle bus to the county town (30 RMB/person). Inside the scenic area, transfer to sightseeing buses and electric carts, holding hands while watching the flowing snowy mountain and forest scenery outside the window. 🏡 Accommodation Recommendations: Combining Romance and Convenience - Shangri-La Town: Highly recommend the Rizong Gongbu Hotel (five-star), with 80% of rooms offering snow mountain views. Join the Tibetan-style Guozhuang dance party at night for an immersive ethnic experience. - Yading Village: Staying inside the scenic area saves time, with divine mountains visible right outside the window. Choose Tibetan-style residences to enjoy the Milky Way stars together, though conditions are simpler (higher altitude, choose accordingly). 🚶 Three Legendary Routes to Unlock Different Romantic Modes 1. "Guanyin Compassion Line" Light Hiking (4-5 hours) 👉 Route: Chonggu Temple → Pearl Lake → Xianuoduoji Viewing Platform → Zhuomala Lake 📍 Must-do: Make a wish at Zhuomala Lake (Dumu Lake), where it is said Green Tara protects lovers forever. The lake’s mirror-like reflection of Xianuoduoji Snow Mountain is a perfect photo spot (Tibetan custom: whisper softly to gain the mountain’s favor). 2. "Manjushri Wisdom Line" Light and Shadow Journey (Half day) 👉 Route: Take electric cart to Luorong Pasture, stroll the meadow gazing at Yangmaiyong Mountain 📍 Must-do: At Chonggu Meadow, the filming location of "Passing Through Your World," lean against the snow mountain and whisper sweet words; wait at Luorong Pasture at dusk for the "Golden Sunlight on the Mountain," watching the sunset gild the snow peaks. 3. "Vajra Challenge Line" Hand-in-Hand Extreme (5-6 hours) 👉 Route: Luorong Pasture → Milk Lake → Five Color Lake (altitude 4700m) 📍 Must-do: Support each other climbing steep slopes, feed each other chocolate for energy at Milk Lake. Hang prayer flags by the gem-like Five Color Lake to bless your love with the mountain as witness. Note: This route is high altitude, proceed according to your ability! 🍜 Must-try Sweet Tibetan Experiences - Food: Warm up with butter tea, try the slightly sour and sweet curd snack "te," and replenish energy with highland yak jerky. - Rituals: Circumambulate the thousand-year-old Mani mound at Chonggu Temple, jointly spin the water prayer wheel to pray; experience the Rubuchaka Hot Springs in Daocheng County (natural geothermal, relieves fatigue). 💡 Couple-Exclusive Tips - 📸 Photo Secrets: Morning mist at Zhuomala Lake, swings at Chonggu Meadow, prayer flag arrays at Luorong Pasture are all perfect spots for stunning photos. - ❤️ Altitude Sickness Response: Bring portable oxygen bottles; if one feels unwell, adjust to shorter routes (the scenic area provides free hot water and rest points). - 🎫 Ticket Tips: Tickets are valid for 3 days; re-entry to the mountain requires only half-price bus tickets, making itinerary planning easy. "I hope to have someone like you, like the fresh wind in the mountains, like the warm light of an ancient town." — In Yading, you are each other’s light✨. Itinerary routes are referenced from the scenic area guide, accommodation experiences are based on visitor reviews, and seasonal landscape suggestions come from photography guides.

Western Sichuan refers to the western part of Sichuan Province, including the Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture and Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture. This region boasts diverse natural and cultural landscapes such as snow-capped mountains, grasslands, forests, lakes, and Tibetan villages, making it a paradise for tourism and photography. 🚌 Transportation Guide - **By Air**: There are Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport, Ganzi Kangding Airport, Aba Hongyuan Airport, Ganzi Gesar Airport, and Daocheng Airport. Choose the appropriate airport based on your destination. - **Long-Distance Bus**: Chengdu Chadianzi Bus Station mainly serves the northern route of Western Sichuan, with destinations like Siguniang Mountain and Seda. Xinnanmen Bus Station operates the southern route, reaching places like Daocheng Yading, Kangding, and Xinduqiao. - **Self-Driving**: Suitable for travelers with ample time who prefer independent trips. However, road conditions in some parts of Western Sichuan are complex, with winding mountain roads. An SUV or off-road vehicle is recommended. 🏡 Accommodation - **Xinduqiao**: Options like Zanba·Mingjing Hotel, featuring Tibetan-style decor with panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows and private hot springs, or budget-friendly B&Bs like Dengfenglai Garden Homestay. - **Danba Tibetan Village**: Stay in traditional Tibetan watchtowers, such as Deji Kangwa Queen’s Castle, to experience authentic Tibetan life. - **Daocheng Shangri-La Town**: At a relatively lower altitude, it offers numerous hotels and B&Bs, making it an ideal rest stop before exploring Daocheng Yading. 🍜 Cuisine - **Local Delicacies**: Butter tea, barley pancakes, yak meat hotpot, Tibetan yogurt, tsampa (roasted barley flour), and chicken stew with matsutake mushrooms. - **Recommended Restaurants**: "Yak Meat Hotpot" in Xinduqiao is a great spot to try yak meat dishes. In Daocheng and Shangri-La Town, restaurants serve delicious chicken stew with matsutake mushrooms. 🛣 Must-Visit Attractions - **Daocheng Yading**: Known as "the last pure land on the blue planet," featuring Milk Lake, Five-Color Lake, and the Three Sacred Mountains (Chenrezig, Jambeyang, and Chanadorje). - **Siguniang Mountain**: Comprising Shuangqiao Valley and Changping Valley—Shuangqiao Valley is well-developed with scenic views, while Changping Valley is a hiker’s paradise. - **Seda Larung Gar Buddhist Academy**: The sea of red houses covering the mountains is awe-inspiring. Visitors may also witness sky burials but must respect local customs. - **Moshi Park**: Unique stone forest landscapes that resemble an alien planet. - **Tagong Grassland**: Offers sweeping grassland views and distant vistas of Yala Snow Mountain. 🎠 Leisure & Entertainment Experience Tibetan culture through activities like bonfire parties or learning to make Tibetan food. You can also go horseback riding on the grasslands while enjoying the natural scenery. 🌴 Surrounding Environment Nearby hidden gems include Lianbao Yeze, Cuopu Valley, and Dangling Hulu Lake—stunning, pristine destinations with breathtaking landscapes. 🏰 Local Customs - **Religious Beliefs**: Most locals practice Tibetan Buddhism. Show respect to temples, Buddha statues, and prayer flags—do not touch or climb them. Maintain quietness in temples and avoid revealing or untidy clothing. - **Etiquette & Taboos**: Avoid touching a Tibetan person’s head or discussing unlucky topics. When giving gifts, use both hands as a sign of respect. - **Lifestyle**: Tibetans have unique dietary and living habits, such as drinking butter tea and eating tsampa. Respect these traditions and adapt to local customs when interacting with them.

🌄 **Daocheng Yading Scenic Area Travel Guide** 🌄 --- ### **🗺️ Recommended Core Routes** 1️⃣ **Long Route (1 Day)** - **Route**: Scenic Area Entrance → Zhaguanbeng → Chonggu Temple → Luorong Pasture → Milk Lake → Five-Color Lake - **Highlights**: Highland meadows surrounded by snow-capped mountains (Luorong Pasture), glacial lakes (Milk Lake), and sacred lakes with shifting colors (Five-Color Lake). - **Tips**: Hiking takes about 6-9 hours, with altitudes over 4,500m. Start early, carry oxygen, and consider horseback riding (limited availability, requires booking) if lacking stamina. 2️⃣ **Short Route (Half-Day)** - **Route**: Scenic Area Entrance → Zhaguanbeng → Chonggu Temple → Pearl Lake - **Highlights**: Tibetan Buddhist temple (Chonggu Temple), reflections of Mount Chenrezig (Pearl Lake). - **Tips**: Gentle boardwalk, suitable for those sensitive to altitude sickness. Takes about 2-3 hours. --- ### **⏰ Best Time to Visit** - **September-October**: Stunning autumn scenery with snow-capped mountains, red leaves, and blue lakes. - **June-August**: Summer flowers in full bloom, but rainy season may affect lake colors. - **Avoid Winter (December-March)**: Icy roads and some attractions closed. --- ### **⚠️ Important Notes** 1. **Altitude Sickness Prevention**: Take Rhodiola supplements 10 days in advance. Avoid strenuous activity upon arrival; carry oxygen and glucose. 2. **Essential Gear**: Windproof jacket, hiking boots, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a thermos (high altitude is dry). 3. **Ticket Rules**: Entrance + shuttle bus costs ¥270, valid for 3 days. Re-entry requires a half-price shuttle ticket. --- ### **🍜 Food Recommendations** - **Tibetan Flavors**: Butter tea (for warmth), dried yak meat (portable snack), barley wine (mild and sweet). - **Local Dishes**: Fritillaria chicken (good for lungs), Tibetan fragrant pork (low-fat and crispy). --- ### **🏠 Accommodation Options** - **Shangri-La Town**: Lower altitude (2,900m), well-equipped, ideal for rest. - **Yading Village**: Inside the scenic area, great for sunrise/stargazing, but high altitude (4,000m+) and prone to power outages. --- ### **📸 Photo Spots** - **Milk Lake**: At the foot of Mount Yangmaiyong, with gradient blue-green waters—best on sunny days. - **Pearl Lake**: Reflections of Mount Chenrezig + autumn foliage, easily accessible via boardwalk. - **Luorong Pasture**: Filming location for *I Belonged to You*, with summer flower fields and snow-capped mountains. --- **📌 Pro Tip**: No food inside the scenic area—bring snacks! Respect local beliefs and avoid littering. Compiled from multiple guides; check the latest updates from the scenic area. 🌿

1. **"Daocheng Yading｜The Last Tear on the Blue Planet💧 Milk Lake is Breathtakingly Beautiful!"** 2. **"Hiking for 5 Hours Just to See Daocheng Yading's 'Tears of the Gods'—Five-Color Lake!"** 3. **"Daocheng Yading｜A Hidden Gem Beneath Mount Chenrezig, I Found the Real-Life Shangri-La!"** 4. **"Daocheng Yading｜At Milk Lake, 4,600 Meters Above Sea Level, I Saw the Color of Heaven!"** 5. **"Daocheng Yading｜Luorong Pasture at the Foot of the Three Sacred Mountains, Filming Location of the Movie 'I Belonged to You'!"** 6. **"Daocheng Yading｜Yangmaiyong Under the Golden Sunrise, the Incarnation of Manjushri is Astonishing!"** 7. **"Daocheng Yading｜The Autumn Red Grassland, Like God's Overturned Palette🎨"** 8. **"Daocheng Yading｜Eyes in Heaven, Body in Hell! But It's Worth It!"** 9. **"Daocheng Yading｜Exploring the Sacred Land in Tibetan Hearts—How Mysterious Are the Three Protector Mountains?"** 10. **"Daocheng Yading｜In 1928, an American Explorer Called It 'The Last Pure Land on Earth'!"**

Daocheng Yading: The Ultimate Guide to the "Last Pure Land on the Blue Planet" (Includes High-Altitude Survival Tips + Tibetan Code Words to Unlock the Parallel Universe of Sacred Mountains and Lakes) 📍 Decoding the Hidden Paradise Location: Core area of the Hengduan Mountains, Garzê Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, western Sichuan. Altitude: 2,000–6,032 meters. Tibetan meaning: "Land Facing the Sun." A "Shangri-La" paradise guarded by the Three Sacred Mountains (Chenrezig/Jampelyang/Chana Dorje). 🌡 Survival Guide: May Conditions: Average daily temperature 5–15°C. Snow-capped mountains not yet melted, alpine rhododendrons in bloom. Must-pack: windbreaker, fleece, and lightweight down jacket. Golden Window: 7:00 AM–7:00 PM (last shuttle at 5:30 PM). For long hikes, reach Luorong Pasture by 12:00 PM. Altitude Sickness Mystery: High risk at 4,411m airport. Avoid strenuous activity upon arrival. Pack rhodiola and oxygen cans (¥50/tank in scenic area, ¥15 at Zhenjiangguan pharmacies). 🏔 Sacred Mountains & Lakes Folding Guide ❶ Long Hike: 5-hour extreme challenge (Luorong Pasture → Milk Lake → Five-Color Lake) 📸 Must-Shot Spots: - Milk Lake: 4,500m altitude, glacier meltwater in Tiffany blue. Best light before 12:00 PM. Capture mountain reflections with drone low-angle shots. - Five-Color Lake: 4,600m altitude, multicolor gradients when weather shifts. Clouds disperse after 3:00 PM for perfect shots. - Luorong Pasture: 4,150m altitude, at the foot of Jampelyang. Tibetan log cabins + yak herds + streams. Use wide-angle for panoramas. 💣 Black Hole Warning: Scenic area mules cost ¥300/one-way (only to Sheshen Cliff). Remainder: 1.8km steep hike. Rain brings mud + manure → waterproof hiking boots + crampons essential. Drones banned in sacred core zones (religious taboo). Violators face copying scriptures 10x. ❷ Short Hike: 2-hour leisurely walk (Chonggu Temple → Pearl Lake) 📸 Must-Shot Spots: - Pearl Lake: 4,100m altitude, reflections of Chenrezig. Mirror-like surface before 8:00 AM. Use phone telephoto for mountains + autumn foliage. - Chonggu Temple: 3,900m altitude, 800-year-old Gelug monastery. Murals + prayer wheels + chanting. Must for cultural photography. 🤖 Cyber Play: AR filter "Sacred Mountain Apparition" adds Buddha halo effects to teammates in real time. ❸ Hidden Gems: Tibetan Local Flavor 🌾 Echu Mountain: Autumn red grasslands + poplar forests. Prime spot for Tibetan costume photos (¥30/hour rental). 🛁 Rubuchaka Hot Springs: Natural sulfur springs at 3,700m. Soak to recover (¥30 entry, free at homestays). 🌌 Stargazing: Yading Village has zero light pollution. Milky Way visible—bring tripods for sacred mountain + star trail shots. 🍲 Tibetan Energy Boosters 🥘 Must-Eat: - Yak Hotpot: "Snowland Tibetan Home" near scenic area. ¥98/person. Broth with matsutake + cordyceps. Tender meat. - Butter Tea: "Tashi Delek" teahouse in Shangri-La Town. Sweet/salty combo. Fights altitude sickness. - Tsampa: Homemade barley cakes with yak cheese curds. Breakfast power pack. 💣 Scam Alerts: - Scenic area instant noodles: ¥15/cup (hot water only) → bring self-heating meals + braised snacks. - Tibetan village "luxury butter tea scams" → stick to roadside stalls (¥5/cup). 🏨 Tibetan Folding Spaces 🛌 Luxury Tier: - Ramada Encore Daocheng Yading: Near entrance. Heated floors + oxygen rooms. ¥1,200/night. - Jianshan Hotel: 270° mountain views. Free airport pickup. ¥1,500/night. 🏡 Local Immersion: - Holiday Inn Express: Downtown Shangri-La. Walk to entrance. ¥500/night. - Tashi Kangsar Homestay: In Yading Village. Stargazing rooms + Tibetan attire. ¥300/night. 📸 Tibetan Code Photography 🌄 Must-Shoot Scenes: - Three Sacred Mountains sunrise: Arrive at Chonggu Meadow by 6:00 AM. Telephoto for golden peaks. - Luorong Pasture Milky Way: Turn off all lights after 11:00 PM. 20-second exposure for star trails. - Village life: Candid shots of elders praying + kids playing. Add Tibetan watermark. 🤖 Cyber Play: - Time-lapse "Sacred Mountains Through Seasons": Compress daylight changes into 10-second ink-wash animation. - Panorama "Daocheng Scroll": 180° shot from Chonggu Temple to Milk Lake. 💣 Ultimate Avoidance Rules 🌧 Weather Mysteries: - No light-colored bags in rain → mossy trails turn them "camouflage." - SPF50+ mandatory → UV penetrates clouds, burns neck creases. 👥 Team Rules: - Long hikes require groups → prevent hypothermia. Carry glucose oral solution. - No solo trips → no signal. Getting lost triggers altitude sickness. 🌿 Eco-Bans: - No chemical sunscreen → harms travertine. Use physical sunscreen only. - Pack out trash → or collect 5kg of mani stones as penalty. 🏮 Tibetan Code Cheat Sheet 👔 Gear: 3-layer system (base + fleece + shell) + waterproof boots + crampons + trekking poles. 🗣 Lingo: ✅ "Tashi Delek" = Tibetan blessing. ✅ "Gongkam Sang" = Hello. ✅ "Gaboche" = Thank you. 🍜 Code Words: ✅ Tsampa = Energy bar. ✅ Barley Wine = Tipsy hack. ✅ Butter Sculptures = Religious art. 🌶 Survival Quick Notes 🧳 Packing List: UV sleeves + "The Tibet Code" book + portable oxygen. ⚠ Etiquette: ✅ Don’t touch mani piles → disrupts blessings. ✅ Don’t feed wildlife → ecological imbalance. ✅ No middle finger at sacred peaks → triggers NPC curse. (After leaving Daocheng, your camera now carries the DNA of sacred peaks—ready for the next soul adventure!)

🌡️【May-June Weather Forecast】 ▫️May: 5-20°C (Temperature swings like a rollercoaster) ▫️June: 10-25°C (Magical season for snow-capped mountains with T-shirts) ⚠️Heads up: Snow can fall anytime in mountain areas! Nights get bone-chillingly cold 🗺️【Western Sichuan Loop: Hits & Misses】 📍Jiuzhaigou Valley 💦May exclusive: Rhododendron seas + colorful forests! Crowd-free for Instagram domination (200% photo yield) ⚠️Skip: Five-Color Pond's low water level (but Long Lake will steal your breath!) 📸Hotspot: Wuhua Lake boardwalk reflections (arrive before 9am for Tiffany-blue shots) 📍Daocheng Yading 💚May brings blooming Meconopsis! Milk Lake looks like matcha frappuccino sprinkled with diamonds 💢Reality check: 10km round-trip hike will test your soul 🆘Survival kit: Oxygen tank + glucose + trekking poles (non-negotiable!) 📍Mount Siguniang 🏔️June turns Shuangqiao Valley divine! Snowmelt rafting chills to the bone (but worth every shiver) 💡Pro tip: Shoot mountains after 3pm (soft-focus lighting magic) 📍Tagong Grassland 🌺June wildflower carpets + Yala Snow Mountain backdrop! ¥20 horse rides include Tibetan costume photos (steal!) 🚾Warning: Grassland toilets = survival challenge (hydrate less + pack wipes) 📍Mount Genie 🌌June's Genie Eye is nature's surprise box! Snow reflections + hot springs + Milky Way trio 🚗Skip if: Driving sedan - gravel roads + potholes await 👗【Dress Code Formula】 🧅Layering = moisture-wicking base + fleece + windbreaker + down vest 👖Bottoms: Cargo/denim pants 👟Footwear: Waterproof hiking boots (grass dew soaks to thighs) 💊【Survival Kit Essentials】 ✅Coke + Snickers (better than glucose for altitude sickness!) ✅Hand warmers (foot lifesavers at night) ✅Disposable underwear (hostel veterans know why) ✅Portable oxygen (¥25/scenic spot vs ¥10/Chengdu) 🚗【Transportation Tips】 🚫New drivers avoid G318! Black ice + falling rocks = real-life Fast & Furious ✅Join 2-6 person tours (local agencies only!) 📌【Pro Tips】 ❶Don't honk at yaks (they chase!) ❷Step over Tibetan home thresholds ❸Prayer flags aren't photo props ❹Don't disturb mani stone piles

📍Destination Overview Daocheng Yading, located in Shangri-La Town, Daocheng County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, is hailed as "the last pure land on the blue planet." This breathtaking destination attracts countless travelers with its magnificent natural scenery and profound cultural heritage. As a National AAAAA Tourist Attraction and National Water Conservancy Scenic Area, Daocheng Yading has become a dream destination for many with its unique charm. 🌟Main Attractions **Three Sacred Mountains** - **Chenrezig (Xiannairi)**: Meaning "Avalokiteshvara" in Tibetan, it stands at 6,032m and is the highest peak in Daocheng, towering and majestic with perpetual snow. - **Manjushri (Yangmaiyong)**: Meaning "Manjushri Bodhisattva" in Tibetan, it rises to 5,958m and is revered as one of the world's most beautiful snow-capped peaks for its serene, maiden-like elegance. - **Vajrapani (Xianuoduojie)**: Meaning "Vajrapani Bodhisattva" in Tibetan, it also stands at 5,958m, with a distinctive bat-like shape, exuding mystery. **Alpine Lakes** - **Pearl Lake**: At 4,100m, its emerald waters offer the best reflection of Chenrezig. - **Milk Lake**: Around 4,500m, its milky-white waters are surrounded by snow-capped peaks, soft meadows, and stunning glaciers. - **Five-Color Lake**: At ~4,600m, its ever-changing hues are said to "reflect history and foresee the future," revered by Tibetan Buddhist monks for divination. 📜History & Culture Originally called "Daoba" ("open valley mouth"), Daocheng Yading dates back to the Eastern Han Dynasty as home to the Bailang Qiang tribe. Under Tibetan rule during the Tang Dynasty, it later became part of the Naxi chieftain system in the Ming Dynasty and a Qing imperial domain in the Kangxi era. Renamed "Daocheng County" in 1939, its Tibetan name means "sunlit land." Respect local Tibetan Buddhist customs: avoid stepping on prayer flags, disturbing mani stones, or touching religious artifacts. Circumambulate stupas and mountains clockwise, dress modestly in temples, and seek permission before photography. 🗺️Itinerary **Day 1: Arrive & Acclimate** - Morning: Arrive in Daocheng, check in, and rest to adjust to the altitude. - Afternoon: Explore local culture in Daocheng town. - Evening: Try yak meat hotpot or butter tea. **Day 2: Short Route (Yading)** - Morning: Take a shuttle to Zhaguanbeng, hike to Chonggu Monastery. - Afternoon: Trek to Pearl Lake for Chenrezig’s reflection. - Evening: Return to Shangri-La Town to avoid altitude sickness. **Day 3: Long Route Challenge** - Full day: Early shuttle to Luorong Pasture, hike/ride to Milk Lake and Five-Color Lake (strenuous but rewarding). - Evening: Rest in Shangri-La or Daocheng. **Day 4: Nearby Attractions** - Morning: Visit Haizi Mountain Nature Reserve (ancient glacial relics). - Afternoon: Explore Daocheng White Pagoda (Tibet’s largest pagoda complex). - Evening: Depart or continue your Sichuan loop journey. 🍽️Food Recs - **Yak Meat Hotpot**: Hearty broth with fresh yak meat and veggies. - **Butter Tea**: Energy-boosting Tibetan staple. - **Tsampa (Barley Pancakes)**: Crispy, nutritious traditional snack. 🏨Accommodation - **Shangri-La Town**: Lower altitude, well-equipped (e.g., Risong Gongbu Hotel, Fanyin Valley Inn). - **Yading Village**: Scenic but high-altitude (e.g., Zhibai Art Hotel). ⚠️Tips - **Altitude Prep**: Take Rhodiola supplements, carry oxygen, and pack meds. Layer for drastic temperature shifts and strong UV. - **Eco & Safety**: Pack trash bags, no drones (without permit), and avoid solo hikes. - **Gear**: Windproof jacket, fleece, hiking boots, sunglasses, sunscreen, backpack, trekking poles, thermos, and high-energy snacks. Daocheng Yading—the mystical "last Shangri-La"—awaits your discovery. With this guide, embark on an autumnal fairy-tale journey with your loved ones!

🌙Location: Dacheng Yading is located in the territory of Yading Village, Shangri-La Town, Dacheng County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, in the eastern part of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, in the middle of the cross-sectional mountain range. 🌟Must-see attractions • Xiannairi Snow Mountain: The northern peak of the Three Fathers Snow Mountain, the one closest to the entrance to the Aden Scenic Area, is suitable for photography enthusiasts. • Yangmaiyong Snow Mountain: Representing Manjushri Bodhisattva, known for its quiet and dignified appearance, its beautiful mountain shape presents different beauty in different angles and light. • Shano Doji Snow Mountain: Representing Vajrapani Bodhisattva, it is similar in height to Yangmai Yong Snow Mountain, with majestic peaks and full of masculine beauty. • Lojun Cattle Farm: It is a great place to see the snow-capped mountains of the three parents, and is also a good place for hiking and horseback riding. The vast meadows are leisurely and leisurely, and the snow-capped mountains and forests in the distance form a beautiful picture. • Milk Sea: Located at the foot of Yangmai Yongshen Mountain, it is a higher elevation ancient glacier lake with clear blue and scallop-shaped water, named after the blue snow water in the middle and a circle of milky white lake water around it. • Okiguji Temple: Located at the foot of Sennohishin Mountain, the temple has a long history, although the temple is not big, but the surrounding natural scenery is beautiful, it is a good place to feel the integration of religious culture and nature. 🌈Ticket related • Price: RM146/person in peak season (April 1-November 30) and RM120/person in off-season (December 1-March 31 of the following year). The sightseeing car round trip is 120 yuan/person, the ticket is valid for two days, and the sightseeing car is half price 60 yuan to enter the scenic spot on the second day. • Preferential policies: Half price for full-time students with a valid student ID, free for seniors over 60 with ID; free for active military, veterans, disabled military personnel, retired military cadres, and disabled people with valid ID; In addition, residents of counterpart support cities such as Hangzhou, Jinhua, Taizhou, and Lizhou are free of tickets (tickets required). 🌷Other tips • Climate and wear: Dacheng Yading has a plateau monsoon climate with large day-night temperature differences, strong UV rays, and variable weather. It is recommended to carry warm clothing such as jackets, down jackets, and sunscreen such as sunglasses, sun hats, and sunscreen. • Preventing altitude sickness: Scenic areas are prone to altitude sickness at higher altitudes. Prepare anti-altitude reaction drugs in advance, move slowly in plateau areas, avoid strenuous exercise, eat should not be too full, eat more vegetables and drink more water. • Scenic Area Regulations: Without approval, flying activities such as drones are prohibited in the scenic area, and pets are prohibited. The scenic spot has a relevant card 200 meters in front of Gonggartso. After 2:30 pm, it is no longer allowed to go to the Milk Sea and Five Color Sea areas. • Others: There are places to rent oxygen inhalers and hiking poles in the scenic area, which can be considered for those with weak physical strength. Riding prices are higher and riding distances are limited, requiring reasonable choices

#《Travel Guide to Yading, Daocheng》 📍Address: Yading Village, Shangri-La Town, Daocheng County, Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province ⏰Opening Hours: 7:00–18:00 (peak season: April–November) 🎫Tickets: Peak season: CNY 146/person | Sightseeing bus: CNY 120 | Round-trip electric car: CNY 80 🚌Transportation: 1️⃣ By plane: Daocheng Yading Airport (the world's highest civilian airport) → Chartered car to the scenic area: 1.5 hrs 2️⃣ By bus: Chengdu Xinnanmen Station → Daocheng (10 hrs) → Transfer to the scenic area bus 3️⃣ By car: Chengdu → Yakang Expressway → China National Highway 318 → Daocheng (approx. 12 hrs) 🗺️Travel Guide: 1️⃣ Chonggu Temple (altitude: 3,900m) ✨Recommended reason: Ancient temple with a thousand-year history + Prototype location of Lost Horizon 📸Photo spot: Panoramic view of the temple surrounded by prayer flags (recommended to shoot in the morning with the light) 2️⃣ Luorong Pasture (Filming location of I Belonged to You) 💡Highlights: Snow-capped mountain reflections + Meadow pastures + Golden poplar forest in autumn 🐎Things to do: Horse riding available (CNY 300/person) to the foot of Milk Lake Mountain 3️⃣ Milk Lake & Five Color Lake (altitude: 4,600+m) ⚠️Note: Requires 5 hrs of hiking | Bring enough oxygen tanks and dry food 🌈Special phenomenon: Lake water shows a blue-green gradient under sunlight 4️⃣ Pearl Lake (Reflection of Xiannairi Snow Mountain) 🌄Best time: Shoot the "Golden Mountain in the Sunshine" in the early morning when the mist has not yet dissipated 5️⃣ Red Grassland (seasonal only) 🍁Best viewing period: Late September–mid-October (only 2 weeks of best viewing) 📷Shooting date: May 11, 2025 💡Precautions: Take Rhodiola Rosea 3 days in advance to prevent altitude sickness Wear waterproof hiking shoes (many gravel roads) Protect the environment (do not feed wild animals) This autumn, bring your oxygen tank and encounter the "last pure land on the blue planet"! 🏔️✨

### 🌈 **Visual Nuclear-Level Landscape** 1️⃣ **Yading, Daocheng: The Last Pure Land on the Blue Planet** ✅ The Milk Lake is Tiffany blue on a clear day, with an 80% chance of encountering a herd of rock sheep while hiking. 📸 Mount Xiannairi Reflection Shooting Spot: Behind Chonggu Temple on the mountainside, you need to squat at 5:30 to wait for the morning mist. 2️⃣ **Mount Siguniang: Oriental Alps** 🌫️ On cloudy days, Shuangqiao Valley has its own "Lord of the Rings" misty forest effect, and Renshengguo Ping transforms into an alpine garden in July. ⚠️ Hidden Gameplay: Camping at the Mule Camp in Changping Valley, with the Milky Way and Mount Yaomei in the same frame. 3️⃣ **Cuopu Valley: A Forgotten Wonderland** 💧 The hot spring eye at the bottom of Zhima Yongcuo Lake keeps the lake water from freezing in winter, and the maple leaves on the shore are as red as flames in October. 🚙 A secret place that can only be reached by off-road vehicle, you often encounter Tibetan chickens crossing the road. 4️⃣ **Mount Genie: A Cold Wonderland** 🗻 Mount Genie's Eye has a god-level aerial view, and in July, a sea of flowers spreads to the foot of the snow-capped mountain. 🏍️ Old Driver Route: Traverse the southern route of Mount Genie, crushing the ultimate beauty of Route 318. --- ### 📅 **Season Limited Aesthetics** 🍂 **Autumn Blowout (September–October)** - Xinduqiao, the World of Light and Shadow: Poplar forest with a golden carpet + Tibetan village with cooking smoke - Bipenggou Colorful Forest Secret Realm: Red Stone Beach + Glacier constitute an oil painting texture ❄️ **Winter Wonderland (December–February)** - Hailuogou Icefall Kingdom: Thousands of meters of icefall hang over Sichuan, soak in the Xuegu Hot Spring - Dagu Glacier, the World's Loneliest Cafe: Drink a latte at an altitude of 4,860m 🌼 **Summer Flower Sea (June–August)** - Ruoergai Grassland: Euphorbia pekinensis dyes the horizon red, ride a horse through the Yellow River's Nine Bends - Emutang 3,000 mu Sea of Flowers: Drone aerial photography of purple iris arrays --- ### 🎨 **Private Collection Parameters for Photography Enthusiasts** 📷 **Daocheng Starry Sky** • Sony A7M3 + 16-35mm F2.8 • ISO3200·25s·F2.8·Manual focus to infinity 📱 **Mobile Phone Photography Tips** • Tagong Grassland Yala Snow Mountain: 3x telephoto + lower exposure • Lianbaoyeze Demon Realm Gate: Ultra-wide angle + cool-toned filter --- ### 🚗 **Walking Guide Without Stepping on Landmines** ⚠️ High Altitude Sickness Buster: Drink Rhodiola Rosea half a month in advance, and carry glucose oral liquid with you ⛽ Refueling Password: PetroChina in the county is the most reliable, 92# gasoline has more supply than 95# 🏡 Accommodation Easter Egg: Danba Tibetan Village choose "Kongshan Homestay", the terrace directly faces Mount Merdo --- ### 🍜 **Taste Plateau Reaction** 🔥 Must-Eat List ✅ Litang "Cangyang Tibetan Restaurant": Raw beef sauce with highland barley cake ✅ Kangding "Jun Wang Fu": Matsutake stewed chicken + Tricholoma mongolicum sashimi 💣 Lightning Warning: The so-called "yak jerky" in scenic spots is mostly horse meat pretending to be yak meat --- 🌌 **Ultimate Easter Egg**: When taking night shots at Seda Larung Gar Buddhist Academy, say "Om Mani Padme Hum" to the Jue Mu, you may be invited to participate in the morning class...

Daocheng-Yading, located in the Tibetan Autonomous Region, is a pristine and breathtaking natural wonder. Every element—streams, grasslands, snow-capped mountains, and small wildlife—comes together in perfect harmony at an altitude of 3,000-4,000 meters above sea level. Despite its stunning beauty, the high altitude often causes visitors to experience altitude sickness. Recommended visiting period: Late October to November, during the autumn foliage season when the weather is not too cold. A 2-day, 1-night trip is suggested to fully enjoy the park. Suggested travel routes: - Long route: Five-Color Lake, Milk Lake - Short route: Pearl Lake

6 pictures take you to see the pure land on earth! ✨ 💡 3 must-see soul tortures before departure 1️⃣ When is the best time to go? From April to May, you can see the reflection of the snow-capped mountains 🌊, and from September to October, you can see the golden meadow 🏞️, but from May 1st, the scenic spot (milk sea, five-color sea) will be open only! 2️⃣ What’s the most convenient way to get there? ✈️ Air: Direct flight to Dacheng Yading Airport (4411 meters above sea level, get oxygen before landing!) → Airport bus to Dacheng County Town (1 hour/30 yuan) → Carpool to Shangri-La Town (1.5 hours/50 yuan). 🚗Driving: 2 days from Chengdu (4000 yuan/car including fuel toll), route: Chengdu → Kangding → Xindu Bridge → Litang → Daocheng. 3️⃣ Where is the best place to feel? ✅ Shangri-La Town: 2900 meters above sea level, recommended "First See Art Hotel" (oxygen supply + Tibetan design) or "ACE Holiday Hotel" (butler service + underfloor heating). ✅ Yading Village: 3900 meters above sea level, suitable for early the next day into the scenic spot, recommended "Mofan Star Hotel" (Tibetan style + Rizhao Jinshan observation room). 🌄 3 days 2 nights classic itinerary Day 1: Adaptation to plateau response + roaming around 📍Zunsheng White Pagoda: Turn the pagoda to pray for blessings (secretly tell you: it's great to take Tibetan style photos here!) 📍Jubchaka Hot Spring: Soak in the plateau wild hot spring ♨️ to relieve fatigue. 🍽️ Food recommendation: Tibetan pork barbecue (crispy on the outside and tender on the inside), mussel chicken soup (lung-moistening artifact). Day2: Short tour of Aden Scenic Area ⏰ 7:30 queue at the entrance of the scenic spot (sightseeing car 120 yuan / person must buy!) 📍Okiguji Temple: A thousand-year-old temple at the foot of the snow-capped mountains (avoid the crowd and shoot ethereal blockbusters). 📍Pearl Sea: The reflection of Mount Sennoi is really beautiful📸, 3950 meters above sea level, 2 hours of slow walking is stress-free. ⚠️ Warm reminder: There are only cup noodles / home cooking in the scenic area. It is recommended to bring your own chocolate + beef jerky. Day 3: Long-term Challenge! Milk sea + five-color sea ⏰ 5:30 Take an electric car from Okinu Temple (80 yuan/person one way) → Lorong Cattle Farm (the best viewing point of Yangmaiyong Snow Mountain). 🚶 Hiking Route: Lojun Cattle Farm → Milk Sea (5 km/4 hours) → Five Color Sea (1 km/1 hour). 💡 Lazy benefit: Ride a horse to the milk sea (300 yuan / person, need to make a reservation 1 day in advance). 📸 Photo spot: Bird's eye view of the Five Color Sea (photographs with a wide-angle lens will be even more beautiful!) 👗 Outfit guide 🔸Essential equipment: rush suit + fur-grabbing inner tank (morning and evening temperature difference 20 °C), hiking shoes (non-slip!), sunglasses + sunscreen (UV super strong). 🔸 Photography artifact: red / white scarf (super bright in front of the snow mountain), ethnic style shawl. ⚠️ Life-saving precautions 1️⃣ High anti-aircraft first aid: ✅ Drink Rhodiola rosea oral liquid 7 days in advance, do not shower after arrival! ✅ There are free oxygen inhalation points in the scenic area, Okinu Temple, Lorong Cow Farm, seriously unwell immediately down the mountain. 2️⃣ Environmental Convention: ❌ Please do not pick flowers and plants, and please take the garbage with you (cows will mistakenly eat plastic bags!) 3️⃣ Ticket Reservation: Peak season (April-November) tickets are 146 yuan, book 3 days in advance on the "Dacheng Yading Scenic Area" public account, secondary admission to the park 60 yuan ticket. 🎁 Avoid Easter eggs 1️⃣ Don't buy expensive oxygen bottles: Shangri-La Town Pharmacy ¥30/can, selling ¥60 in the scenic spot! 2️⃣ Horse riding tips: The horse gang from Loving Cattle Farm to Milk Sea is limited to 300 horses per day. It is recommended to queue before 8am. 3️⃣ Weather forecast: Please pay attention to the "Dacheng Yading Scenic Area" public account, heavy rain / wind weather may be temporarily closed. 🌟 Words for the brave “The eyes are in heaven, the body is in hell” – this couldn’t be more apt to describe Aden Inagi. But when you stand by the five-colored seaside and watch the reflection of the snow-capped mountains ripple on the lake, all the fatigue will disappear. On this journey, you reap not only the beauty, but also the challenge and growth of yourself.