Dege travel guide and discussion

On the Sichuan-Tibet Northern Route G317, besides the magnificent Que'er Mountain, don’t miss this treasure lake called Yulong Laco! Snow-capped mountains as the backdrop, a turquoise lake as the mirror The cleanest shade of blue on 317, healing all the weary travelers! After countless trips on the Sichuan-Tibet route, Only here makes me willing to pause my journey✨ A human jade pool embraced by the snowy Que'er Mountain The lake water is clear and transparent, the wind gentle and healing It is the purest and most healing hidden sacred lake in Tibet💙 📍【Location】 Dêgê, Ganzi · A must-pass spot on National Highway G317 Next to Manigango, no detour needed, easily accessible by self-driving! 🎫【Tickets】 Ticket + round-trip sightseeing bus: 80 RMB/person Students and seniors enjoy half price, truly worth it in real life! ⌚️【Opening Hours】 Usually 08:30~17:30 ⏰【Recommended Duration】 Suggested stay: 3–4 hours No need to rush or hike Perfect for relaxing by the lake, daydreaming, taking photos, and enjoying the scenery 🅿️【Parking】 Exclusive parking lot for the scenic area | Plenty of spaces Very friendly for self-driving on the Sichuan-Tibet Northern Route! 🌿【About the Gentleness of Yulong Laco】 This is the sacred lake beloved by Queen Gesar for life At 4040 meters above sea level Snowy mountains stretch endlessly, surrounded by primeval forest The entire lake shines with a Tiffany blue so transparent it glows💎 The lake surface is calm and still, clearly reflecting the snowy mountains and sea of clouds The shore is full of devout Mani stones and fluttering prayer flags No commercial noise Only wind, lake water, snow mountains, and tranquility The moment you stand by the lake, All the fatigue from the self-driving journey is healed🍃 ✅【Easy Lazy Tour Route】 Take the sightseeing bus from the visitor center directly to the lake Check in at the white pagoda, wish bridge, and lakeside wooden boardwalk Short boardwalk offers panoramic views of snowy mountains and lake Gentle road conditions, suitable for elderly and children! ⚠️【Must-Know Tips for Western Sichuan】 ▪️Altitude 4040m! Move slowly throughout, avoid running or jumping to prevent altitude sickness ▪️Huge temperature difference between day and night on the plateau, bring a windbreaker even in summer ▪️Strong UV rays, sunglasses, sunscreen, and hats are essential ▪️Respect Tibetan beliefs: do not step on Mani stones, do not litter, walk clockwise 318 is the bustling human world, while 317 is the quiet snowy tenderness. Just one glance at this 4040-meter pure beauty is enough to soothe all the dust of the journey. When you come to Western Sichuan G317, don’t miss it!

Take your kids to Western Sichuan during the National Day holiday, but avoid the crowded 318 Highway! This lesser-known 6-day route is perfect for families, completely escaping the crowds. Take a detour to a more wild and less populated hidden gem route, enjoying snow-capped mountains, pastures, wetlands, and Tibetan villages along the way. Let your kids immerse themselves in the grandeur of Western Sichuan with a relaxed itinerary that’s easy for children to adapt to. ✨ 6-Day Family Itinerary to Avoid Traffic (Relaxed pace, balancing sightseeing and rest) Day 1️⃣ Chengdu → Maerkang (4-hour highway drive) · Smooth highway drive all the way, no winding mountain roads, reducing car sickness for kids · Head straight to Changlie Monastery on the mountaintop, with magnificent Tibetan architecture. Explore the monastery with your kids to experience Tibetan culture, avoiding crowds for a peaceful visit · Hidden gem: The highland pasture behind the monastery looks like a scene from a Studio Ghibli film, with flat grasslands where kids can run freely, chase lambs, and take heartwarming family photos Day 2️⃣ Maerkang → Kasa Lake → Ganzi County · Travel along National Highway 317, with beautiful scenery all along the way. Stop anytime to let kids enjoy the views and take photos · Kasa Lake: A stunning highland wetland backed by snowy mountains and temples, flocks of migratory birds flying overhead. Feed waterfowl and enjoy the lake scenery with your kids to feel the beauty of nature · Sunset bonus: Watch the sunset at Kawaluo Sunset Camp and visit Caishen Mountain. If lucky, you can see the golden sunlight on the mountain peaks. The breathtaking sunset will amaze your kids · Stay in Ganzi County, highly recommend Fujian Claypot Restaurant. The Sichuan dishes are mildly spicy and kid-friendly, with fresh and delicious ingredients Day 3️⃣ Ganzi County → Que’er Mountain → Yulong Laco → Wild Hot Springs → Ganzi County · A day surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The glacier at Que’er Mountain offers a stunning visual impact. Observe the glacier from a distance with your kids, explain snow mountain knowledge, combining fun and learning · Fun surprise: The Que’er Mountain viewing platform has many pika rabbits, allowing kids to observe them up close, very interesting · Money-saving tip: The National Day scenery at Yulong Laco is not at its best, but the free viewing platform offers a full view without paying an entrance fee. Perfect for a family photo stop · Hidden surprise: Wild hot springs near Dajin Monastery with comfortable water temperature. Soak with your kids to relax and enjoy a unique experience under the snow mountains Day 4️⃣ Ganzi County → Ganbai Road → Yaqing Monastery → Ganzi/Daofu · Travel along the “most beautiful county road” Ganbai Road, accompanied by Zhuodala Snow Mountain. The grasslands and snow mountains along the way create picturesque scenes perfect for family photos · Lalongcuo Wetland: Clear waters and lush aquatic plants. Stop briefly with your kids to stroll and experience the tranquility of the highland wetland · Yaqing Monastery: More family-friendly than Seda, no time restrictions for visits. The best spot offers a panoramic view of Jue Mu Island, with a striking red Tibetan village. Teach your kids about Tibetan culture here · Important reminder: No gas stations and weak signal on this route. Fill up your tank in advance and bring picture books and toys for your kids to avoid boredom Day 5️⃣ Ganzi/Daofu → Dandao Secret Realm → Zhonglu Tibetan Village · Dandao Secret Realm, recommended by National Geographic, is a small but stunning spot with gentle roads, easy for kids to explore and experience the pristine Tibetan landscape · Stay in Zhonglu Tibetan Village, featuring distinctive Tibetan architecture. The night sky is incredibly clear for stargazing with your kids, a meaningful experience Day 6️⃣ Zhonglu Tibetan Village → Chengdu · Return along scenic roads, take your time strolling and enjoying the views without rushing, letting your kids savor the beautiful scenery of Western Sichuan ⚠️ Important Tips for Traveling with Kids 1️⃣ Altitude sickness warning: The entire trip is at 3500-4500 meters elevation. Bring oxygen bottles and altitude sickness medicine for your kids. Avoid strenuous activities, rest often, and drink plenty of water 2️⃣ Leave no trace: Teach your kids to take all trash with them, protect the highland environment, and cultivate environmental awareness 3️⃣ Vehicle preparation: An SUV is recommended. The Dandao Secret Realm has unpaved roads, so driving is safer. Bring child safety seats for your kids 4️⃣ Supplies: Prepare your kids’ favorite snacks and drinking water in advance. Some areas have few supply points. Bring a thermos for hot water anytime 5️⃣ Clothing guide: Western Sichuan has large temperature differences between morning and night. Dress your kids in windproof and warm jackets with quick-dry layers underneath for easy dressing and undressing

It is famous in Aden, Daocheng in southwestern Sichuan, and to the north there is the secret place "Xinluhai" in Ganzi, which is also known as Yulong Lacuo. It is on the roadside from Garze to Dege, just beside the 317 National Highway, just a few hundred meters away from the national highway, between Garze County and Derge County. Yulong Lacuo is surrounded by mountain peaks. The tops of the mountains are covered with snow and sparkle in the sunlight. The water of the lake is crystal clear, with the breeze blowing and the waves sparkling. The woods beside the lake are colorful and change colors with the seasons. The altitude here is about 4,000 meters. There are cattle grazing leisurely, clear lakes, snow-capped mountains in the distance, and dense forests surrounding it. Everything is so beautiful that it takes your breath away and makes you want to cry! Yulong Lacuo is a famous glaciated lake in Ganzi. The color of the lake is cyan. There is also a beautiful legend about this lake. It is the sacred lake that Zhu Mu, Princess Gesar, loved. It carries many romantic stories and is a mysterious place. It is recommended to bring some food and drink with you as the canteen may not always be open. This place is really beautiful. When I came here, I met two cute local cowherd boys. I chatted with them for a long time, sharing the legend about the lake with us, and chatting about daily life. I like the natural scenery here and the simplicity of the people here! There are fragrant highland barley cakes with a crispy texture, yak jerky that is chewy, and the characteristic Tibetan yogurt, which is sweet and sour. In addition to Yulong Lacuo Lake, there are also grasslands around where you can ride horses and feel the free wind. But it should be noted that In high-altitude areas, you must be prepared for altitude sickness in advance and bring relevant medicines. Keep warm and bring enough warm clothes. Respect local religious and cultural customs. Take good care of the environment and don't destroy and throw away garbage at will. Understand the local weather in advance and plan your trip accordingly.

true smiles can give happiness

Dzongsar landscapes in the winter and summer

Dzongsar landscape in the winy and summer! Dege county, ganzi Tibetan prefecture.

Folks, hidden deep in the Western Sichuan plateau is a "no-plug, no-slacking" powerhouse—Derge Parkhang. For nearly 300 years, it has relied on natural light to "hand-craft" sutras, with artisans working using almost the same processes as in the 18th century. It was selected as one of the first national-level intangible cultural heritages in 2006, added to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2009, and in 2024, its collection of woodblock archives was included in the Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register. This isn't a museum; it's a "living printing house" that's still breathing. 🏯 What to see: Hardcore craftsmanship To make printing blocks, you must select red birch wood from altitudes above 3,000 meters, smoke it over a low fire, compost it in manure for a winter, then boil, dry, and polish it before carving can begin. From writing the draft to completing the carving, there are 5–6 strict proofreading stages, followed by butter offerings to prevent cracking. The Tibetan paper used for printing is even more remarkable; it's made from the roots of the Stellera chamaejasme plant, which is naturally slightly toxic, so it resists insects and rodents and lasts for a long time. Printing is done in pairs: one person brushes the ink, and the other covers it with paper for rubbing. Once the cinnabar ink is applied, it's air-dried on the drying terrace, where the scents of butter and ink "clash" in the air. The entire facility houses over 320,000 woodblocks covering Buddhism, astronomy, medicine, history, poetry, and more—it's truly an "encyclopedia of Tibetan culture." The treasure of the house, the "Eight Thousand Verses of the Prajnaparamita Sutra," features a comparison of three scripts: Sanskrit, Tibetan transliteration of Sanskrit, and Tibetan translation of Sanskrit, complete with illustrations—the only one of its kind in the world. There's also the world's only copy of the "Old Translation of the Hundred Thousand Tantras," and the "Kangyur" and "Tengyur" are considered the "gold standards" of ancient Tibetan printed editions. 🖐️ How to experience it: Don't just watch, get hands-on! Core experience: Hand-print a page of sutras in the printing workshop! An intangible cultural heritage master will guide you in using a deerskin roller to brush ink, cover with paper, and rub—you can take home your finished Six-Syllable Mantra or Heart Sutra. It costs about CNY 20/person, and even those who aren't crafty can print their first page of sutras. Remember to book in advance and ask when you arrive. Recommended route: Main entrance > Courtyard square > Plate-making workshop > Printing workshop > Woodblock storage room > Sutra drying terrace > Top-floor prayer hall > Kora path. No backtracking, 1.5–2 hours; for a deep dive, 3–4 hours. The red wall at the main entrance is best for panoramic shots at 9:00 AM; in the courtyard square, watch the sunlight slant through the skylight as light and shadow move across the woodblock racks; in the plate-making workshop, watch masters carve with iron pens—a single block takes months; the printing workshop is smooth and fluid; the woodblock storage room has 300,000 blocks stacked to the ceiling—wear Tibetan red clothing for great photos; the sutra drying terrace offers prayer flags + sunset; pray at the top-floor hall; finally, join the locals on the Kora path to transform from a tourist into an insider. ☀️ Golden time: Light is the measure of time There is still no electricity here; it relies entirely on natural light. The best light is from 9:00–11:30 AM; after 3:00 PM, the light dims, and the experience is less impressive. The golden season is June–September. The printing period is from the 15th day of the third Tibetan month to the 20th day of the ninth Tibetan month, which is when you can see the full printing process; the Sutra Drying Festival at the end of July is spectacular. The west window on the top floor is a hidden photo spot where the sunset shines through the prayer flags, making the artisans' silhouettes look like shadow puppets, but you need staff permission. 🎁 Deep dive: Immerse yourself like a local At the workshops outside the facility, you can hand-make a piece of long-lasting Tibetan paper using Stellera chamaejasme roots for about CNY 50/person (1 hour). After booking, you can touch the thousand-year-old palm-leaf scriptures in the main sutra hall. Before leaving, head to Derge Old Street to hunt for handmade woodblock rubbings (CNY 80–150)—they have more warmth than machine-made copies. Sit quietly in the courtyard at dusk, listen to the wind blowing the prayer flags, and let your soul and stomach be healed. 🍜 What to eat: The highland foodie spirit is burning bright A five-minute walk from the printing house, head to the Yangqing Tibetan Restaurant, a local favorite. You must order the hand-grabbed yak meat; highland yak meat is firm and low in fat, boiled in large chunks until just cooked through, then eaten by hand or sliced—tender and flavorful. The butter tea is salty, fragrant, and rich, perfect for boosting energy and easing altitude sickness; ask the owner to teach you how to knead tsampa—roasted highland barley flour kneaded into balls with butter tea—it's full of barley aroma. Average cost is about CNY 60, with generous portions. The yak meat buns have thin skins, large fillings, and delicious broth—locals eat them daily; the pickled vegetable noodle soup is sour, spicy, and warming (about CNY 15). At night, go to the Derge County night market: grilled yak meat skewers sizzling with oil, Tibetan yogurt with a golden skin on top (sour, sweet, and thick), and crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside fried potatoes. If you're lucky, you might even catch the locals dancing the Guozhuang. Don't miss the wild mushrooms either. Morels are crisp, tender, and sweet; tiger paw mushrooms grow in alpine grasslands in August and September, with black patterns resembling tiger claws—they are "unusual and fragrant," and stir-frying them with shredded meat is incredibly delicious. In autumn and winter, have a bowl of Tibetan sour radish stewed with yak meat—warm and refreshing. Ginseng fruit rice is cooked with potentilla anserina and rice, drizzled with butter and sugar—sweet and sticky; street-side butter pastries and sour milk curd snacks are also worth a try. 📍 Practical tips 📍 No. 13 Bagong Street, Derge County, Garze Prefecture, Sichuan Province. Altitude is about 3,300 meters. Please take it slow when you first arrive on the plateau. 🎫 Peak season CNY 50/person. Often free in winter. Free for residents of cities that provide aid to the region (with ID). ⏰ Approx. 8:30–11:30 AM, 2:00–5:30 PM. Closes earlier in the afternoon during winter. 🚗 Self-drive via G317 Sichuan-Tibet Northern Line, about 12 hours from Chengdu. Take a bus to Garze County and then carpool. 🏨 Tibetan homestay dorms near the printing house are about CNY 70/person, or choose an oxygen-equipped hotel in the county. 👕 Red/gold outfits look great in photos. Bring a sun-protective jacket + windproof clothing, and have altitude sickness medicine ready. 🙏 Etiquette and tips Always walk clockwise and remove your hat when entering halls. Cameras and other photography equipment are prohibited; you can use your phone, but turn off the flash. Do not touch the woodblocks or disturb the artisans. If you can only choose one time to visit, June–September mornings are best: complete printing scenes + the best light, all in one go. The way to experience Derge Parkhang ultimately comes down to "slowing down." Slow down enough to see the focus in every stroke of the artisan's knife, slow down enough to smell the scent of ink intertwined with butter, and slow down enough to taste the sunshine and pasture in the yak meat. Come for a visit, and your eyes, hands, and stomach will be well taken care of by the plateau.

Chengdu → Daofu → Dege → Baiyu → Litang → Tianquan → Chengdu | 5-day 4-night pure EV road trip loop ✅Route: G317 + Provincial Road 447 (Ganbai Road), fully paved asphalt road, no rough roads ✅Charging benefits: State Grid DC fast charging is available at Baiyu Passenger Transport Center, significantly reducing charging pressure; State Grid fast charging is plentiful in towns along the way, so you don't have to rely solely on hotel slow charging overnight ✅Loop route with no backtracking | 5 days 4 nights | EV-friendly "lazy" guide Accommodation list (supports slow charging, convenient for overnight backup charging) D1 Daofu | Daofu Hotel / Shiming Tibetan Culture Hotel, plenty of State Grid fast charging in town, hotel supports slow charging D2 Dege | Dege Junlan Hotel (first choice), has its own charging piles, walking distance to the Printing House D3 Baiyu | Baiyu Hotel, in the heart of town; use State Grid DC fast charging at Baiyu Passenger Transport Center during the day, hotel slow charging for backup D4 Litang | Hanting Hotel (Litang 318 National Highway Branch), has its own charging piles + oxygen supply, State Grid fast charging station available in town 📅Daily itinerary + sightseeing + precise charging plan D1 Chengdu — Daofu | G317, 360 km | Stay in Daofu 🚗Route: Chengdu → Yakang Expressway → G317 → Daofu 🔋Charging: Depart Chengdu with a full charge, top up at State Grid fast charging stations in Ya'an Service Area and Kangding Service Area; fully charge at the State Grid fast charging station in Daofu town, then slow charge at the hotel overnight. 🌿Sightseeing: Outskirts of Bamei Moshi Park, unique Tibetan-style dwellings in Daofu; take it slow to acclimate to the altitude, avoid strenuous exercise. 💡Tips: The altitude gain on the first day is gradual, do not stay up late. D2 Daofu — Dege | G317, 370 km | Stay in Dege 🚗Route: Daofu → Luhuo → Ganzi town → Que'ershan Tunnel → Dege 🔋Charging: Depart Daofu with a full charge, top up at the State Grid fast charging station in Ganzi town; upon arriving in Dege, stay at a hotel with charging piles and slow charge overnight to prepare for the Ganbai Road section the next day. 🌿Sightseeing: Kasa Lake, Xinlu Sea (Yulong Latsuo), Que'ershan viewing platform; stroll around the outskirts of the Dege Printing House in the evening. D3 Dege — Baiyu | Provincial Road 447 (Ganbai Road), 100 km | Stay in Baiyu 🚗Route: Dege → Provincial Road 447 (Ganbai Road) → Baiyu ✅Road conditions: Fully paved asphalt, top-tier scenery, continuous grasslands and lakes 🔋Charging: Depart Dege with a full charge; there is no public fast charging along Ganbai Road. Upon arriving in Baiyu, go directly to the State Grid DC fast charging station at Baiyu Passenger Transport Center to fully charge (important!), then use hotel slow charging as a backup. 🌿Sightseeing: Lakes along Ganbai Road, Lalongcuo viewing platform; visit Baiyu Monastery in the afternoon, a large Nyingma sect monastery built into the mountainside, quiet and uncrowded. D4 Baiyu — Litang | Provincial Road 447 to G214, 220 km | Stay in Litang 🚗Route: Baiyu → Provincial Road 447 → G214 → Litang 🔋Charging: Depart with a full charge from Baiyu Passenger Transport Center; top up at the State Grid fast charging station in Ganzi town if needed. Upon arriving in Litang, charge at the State Grid fast charging station in town, and stay at a hotel with oxygen supply + charging piles. 🌿Sightseeing: Letong Ancient Town, Thousand-Household Tibetan Village; stroll along Renkang Ancient Street in the evening to see the night view of Litang. 💡Tips: Litang is at an altitude of 4,014 m, do not run or jump, and have an oxygen bottle ready. D5 Litang — Tianquan — Chengdu | G318 + Yakang Expressway, 500 km 🚗Route: Litang → Yajiang → Kangding → Tianquan → Chengdu 🔋Charging: Depart Litang with a full charge from the State Grid fast charging station; rest and charge at the large State Grid fast charging station in Tianquan Service Area, then head back to Chengdu. 🌿Sightseeing: A quick stop at Zheduo Mountain, no deep exploration, easy return trip. ⚡Key tips for EV travel 1. State Grid fast charging at Baiyu Passenger Transport Center: 4 DC piles available for public vehicles. This is the biggest benefit of this route, as it eliminates the lack of mid-way fast charging on the Ganbai Road section. It is recommended to prioritize charging at the Passenger Transport Center upon arriving in Baiyu; hotel slow charging should only be used as a backup. 2. High-altitude power consumption: Climbing + low temperatures will reduce range to 70%–75%; reserve sufficient battery buffer. 3. Ganbai Road: Fully paved asphalt road, but some sections have no mobile signal. Download offline maps in advance, drive only during the day, and do not drive at night. 4. Charging pile status reminder: Charging piles in Western Sichuan towns may occasionally be under maintenance. Try to plan for charging when the battery is at 30%; do not wait until it is low. ✨Xiaohongshu post (ready to post) EV road trip Western Sichuan loop | 5 days 4 nights with no backtracking | G317 + Provincial Road 447 Many EV drivers worry about charging on the Northern Ganzi route, but this loop has been tested and State Grid fast charging is very convenient! The new State Grid DC fast charging at Baiyu Passenger Transport Center makes driving on Ganbai Road worry-free. The entire route is paved asphalt with no rough roads. 🗺️Loop: Chengdu → Daofu → Dege → Baiyu → Litang → Tianquan → Chengdu 🚗Route: G317 + Provincial Road 447 (the best part of Ganbai Road), covering culture + grasslands and lakes 📅Itinerary at a glance D1 Chengdu → Daofu | Moshi Park, Daofu Tibetan dwellings, State Grid charging at Kangding Service Area D2 Daofu → Dege | Kasa Lake, Xinlu Sea, outskirts of Dege Printing House, fast charging in Ganzi D3 Dege → Baiyu | Beautiful lakes along Ganbai Road, Baiyu Monastery, State Grid fast charging at Baiyu Passenger Transport Center✅ D4 Baiyu → Litang | Letong Ancient Town, Thousand-Household Tibetan Village, fast charging in Litang town D5 Litang → Tianquan → Chengdu | Quick stop at Zheduo Mountain, fast charging at Tianquan Service Area on the way back ⚡EV charging tips ✅State Grid DC fast charging is available in Ya'an, Kangding, Ganzi, Baiyu Passenger Transport Center, Litang, and Tianquan Service Area, making charging convenient ✅There is no public fast charging along Ganbai Road (Dege-Baiyu); depart Dege with a full charge and go directly to the Passenger Transport Center for fast charging upon arriving in Baiyu ✅Hotels offer slow charging as a backup power solution 🌿Scenery highlights ▫️Daofu: Tibetan-style dwellings with rich colors ▫️G317: Kasa Lake, Xinlu Sea, Que'ershan Tunnel ▫️Ganbai Road: Alpine meadows, continuous lakes, a niche secret spot in Western Sichuan ▫️Dege: Dege Printing House, a treasure trove of Tibetan culture ▫️Baiyu: Baiyu Monastery, a quiet Nyingma monastery ▫️Litang: Thousand-Household Tibetan Village, night view of the high-altitude town 💡Travel tips 1. The altitude in the highlands fluctuates significantly; Litang is at 4,014 m. Avoid strenuous exercise and have an oxygen bottle ready. 2. Some areas of Ganbai Road have no mobile signal. Download offline maps in advance and drive only during the day. 3. Charging piles in Western Sichuan may occasionally be under maintenance. Prioritize finding a station to charge when the battery is below 30%; do not push your range to the limit. 4. There is a section on the road from Baiyu to Litang where the Sichuan-Tibet Railway is under construction. The road conditions in the tunnel are not very good, so drive slowly to avoid tire blowouts. Please be careful‼️

I used to dread the traffic at Zheduo Mountain during National Day, so I specifically chose a reverse route. Over 5 days, I never had to rush, and the scenery was top-tier—I saw snow mountains, colorful forests, grasslands, and lakes, all with very few crowds. 🚗 Our 5-day route, specifically to avoid traffic: Day 0: Chengdu → Miyaluo, stay one night to acclimate to the altitude Day 1: Miyaluo → Gemo Monastery → Rangtang, the road is full of colorful forests Day 2: Rangtang → Kasa Lake → Yulong Laco, snow mountains and lakes connected in a row Day 3: Manigange → Gatuo Monastery → Yaqing Monastery, taking the Ganbai Road with very few people Day 4: Garze → Daofu → Danba Tibetan Village Day 5: Danba straight back to Chengdu, completely avoiding Zheduo Mountain 🌿 A few of the most photogenic spots: ・In early October, the larch trees have just turned fully yellow. Paired with the deep blue lakes, the raw photos look like desktop wallpapers ・Don't crowd at Zheduo Mountain. Kasa Lake and Yulong Laco are so empty that you can set up a table by the lake to brew coffee and watch the reflection of the snow mountains ・You should really go to Dangling Hulu Lake. At 4,200 meters, altitude sickness isn't too bad. Snow mountains + colorful forests + blue water—it's 10 times more comfortable than crowding into Jiuzhaigou ・Stay in a Tibetan village at night. In the morning, open the window to see clouds swirling around the snow mountains. It's much more worth it than a hotel room with an ocean view ⚠️ Heartfelt tips: 1. During National Day, the temperature difference between day and night is 10 degrees. You must bring a windbreaker + light down jacket. Don't wear white shoes; the mountain roads are all gravel and mud 2. Buy oxygen canisters in advance in Danba for 20 each; they sell for 50 in the scenic areas 3. Don't shower or wash your hair for the first two nights; it's easy to catch a cold when you first arrive on the plateau 4. Sunscreen! Sunscreen! Sunscreen! The UV rays on the plateau will make your skin peel after just one day 5. Bring some cash; many places in the mountains have no signal If you don't want to be in crowds during National Day, this route is really great. If you get tired of driving, just pull over on the side of the road and sit for an afternoon watching the clouds. No need to rush between attractions. Chengdu, Sichuan | Danba Gonggubao Homestay

Before this trip, I specifically checked Trip.com's list of autumn attractions in the Garzê Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. I ended up choosing the Yulong Latsuo Scenic Area from the list, and it turns out that following the list really didn't lead me astray! 🍂 As a nature reserve, it has almost no signs of over-development and remains largely pristine. While the lake isn't huge, what surprised me most was how the water color changes with the light, shifting from emerald green to deep blue, giving it an indescribable, lively quality. Combined with the statue of King Gesar and the local legends, the entire scenic area has a mysterious and profound cultural atmosphere that is truly unforgettable. 🚶‍♀️ Travel Tips: There are two walking trails in the scenic area—the Que'ershan Mountain Viewing Trail and the Qingxin Lake Sightseeing Trail. If you are short on time, I recommend prioritizing the Qingxin Lake trail, where you can see the lake, white stupas, and Mani piles; the views are well worth it. If the weather is nice, doing both trails is worth it, and 1–2 hours is plenty for the whole thing. Please do not attempt to hike around the entire lake, as most of the shoreline is not open to the public. 📸 Photo Tips: Try to go in the morning when the light is soft, as it is easier to capture the reflection of the snow-capped mountains on the lake. In the afternoon, it is often windy and cloudy, which creates ripples on the lake and diminishes the effect. The only thing I would complain about is that the vendors in the scenic area are a bit "too enthusiastic." They tend to crowd around the parking lot and sightseeing bus stops, which slightly impacts the experience. I hope the scenic area can better regulate this. Otherwise, I am very satisfied and would be happy to recommend it to friends!

Before I went, I thought the Western Sichuan Grand Loop was heaven for the eyes, but on the first day, I got altitude sickness so bad I questioned my life choices. But after finishing the 7-day trip, I admit: hell for the body, heaven for the eyes—that saying is absolutely true. 🚗 Why is it worth the trip? 1. Extremely high landscape density. From the Chengdu Plain to snow-capped mountains, grasslands, stone forests, and alpine lakes, the terrain changes every day. 2. Strong spiritual atmosphere. Seda, Yaqing, and the Derge Sutra Printing House will move you, even if you aren't Buddhist. 3. Incredible road trip experience. Connecting National Highways 318 and 317, there are many curves, but the road conditions are generally good. 4. Highly photogenic. Xinduqiao, Daocheng Yading, and Cuopugou—every shot is wallpaper-worthy. 5. But don't ignore: long drives, high altitude, and changeable weather mean that just going on a whim can easily lead to trouble. 🗺️ 3-day lightweight route (suitable for those short on time): D1 Chengdu—Kangding—Zheduo Mountain—Xinduqiao (Stay in Xinduqiao, altitude 3,300m) D2 Xinduqiao—Tagong Grassland—Moshi Park—Danba (Stay in Jiaju Tibetan Village, altitude 1,800m) D3 Danba—Mount Siguniang—Balang Mountain—Chengdu If you have two more days, definitely add Daocheng Yading or Seda. 🍜 What to eat: Kangding jelly noodles, yak meat hot pot, butter tea, highland barley cakes, and Danba smoked pork leg. Sichuan restaurants in Xinduqiao are generally expensive; it's recommended to eat well in Kangding or Danba before hitting the road. ⚠️ 6 practical tips: 1. Altitude sickness is no joke. Take Rhodiola rosea a week in advance, and prepare ibuprofen and oxygen canisters. Don't wash your hair or take a shower on the first day. 2. Variable road conditions. Landslides are common during the rainy season in July–August, and it may snow after October. Check the 'Sichuan Traffic' Weibo or local traffic police official accounts before departure. 3. Refuel frequently. There are gas stations in Xinduqiao, Litang, and Danba, but they are far apart. Fill up whenever you see a PetroChina station. 4. Choose low-altitude accommodation. It's easy to suffer from insomnia in Xinduqiao and Litang; Danba, Kangding, and Yajiang are at lower altitudes and offer better sleep. 5. Check official sources for the latest ticket prices and opening hours. Policies for Yading, Seda, and the Derge Sutra Printing House change frequently; don't trust old guides. 6. Don't step on prayer flags or Mani stones when taking photos. Locals take their faith very seriously; respect is more important than getting the perfect shot. 📸 Photo spots: Zheduo Mountain Pass for the snow-capped mountain road, Xinduqiao's Ten-Mile Gallery for autumn poplars, Tagong Temple for Mount Yala, Moshi Park for the exotic stone forest, and Maobiliang for the panoramic view of Mount Siguniang. On the last day returning to Chengdu, playing 'Blue Lotus' in the car, watching the snow-capped mountains get smaller in the rearview mirror, I suddenly understood—Western Sichuan isn't just for checking off a list; it's for savoring. While you're young, go once, but make sure you're prepared.

Want to avoid traffic jams at Zheduoshan and Xinduqiao during the National Day holiday? 🙅‍♀️ Avoid the main crowds and take this niche reverse loop instead. Check off snow-capped mountains, grasslands, Buddhist sites, and alpine lakes all in one go. It's so uncrowded, it feels like you have the place to yourself ✨ 🗓️ Detailed Itinerary D1: Xi'an → Chengdu D2: Chengdu → Shenmulei → Dawagengzha D3: Dawagengzha → Yala Snow Mountain → Longdeng Grassland → Daofu D4: Daofu → Seda Larung Gar Buddhist Academy → Seda D5: Seda → Dongga Monastery → Kasa Lake → Kawaluori → Garze County D6: Garze → Yulonglaco (Xinlu Sea) → Derge Parkhang → Baiyu County D7: Baiyu → Yarchen Gar → Litang County D8: Litang → Tianlu 18 Bends → Zheduoshan → Kangding D9: Kangding → Luding → Chengdu → Xi'an ✅ Shenmulei Admission is about 52 yuan, shuttle bus 20 yuan/person. Take the sightseeing bus up the mountain and walk down along the wooden boardwalk, passing through primeval red birch forests and alpine meadows where cattle and sheep roam freely. ⚠️ Dining options inside the scenic area are limited and expensive; it is recommended to bring your own snacks and hot water. ✅ Dawagengzha Admission is about 60 yuan + 80 yuan for the sightseeing bus. Private cars are not allowed up the mountain; you must take the sightseeing bus. The ultimate spot for sunrise over the sea of clouds in Western Sichuan! Wake up at 4:30 AM to enter the park and take the sightseeing bus to the summit (altitude 3,866 meters) to wait for the sunrise, sea of clouds, and the golden mountain peak. ⚠️ It is windy and cold at the summit, so wear a down jacket and bring oxygen canisters and glucose. Dawagengzha is very weather-dependent; check the forecast before you leave, as you might not see the sunrise if the weather is bad. ✅ Seda Larung Gar Buddhist Academy Enter the Larung Gar Buddhist Academy in the afternoon. Walk along the mandala and observation deck to overlook the red houses covering the mountainside, and watch the sunset turn the rooftops golden in the evening. ⚠️ You need to book 3 days in advance via the "Larung Gou Jin Gou" mini-program. It is free, but there is a daily visitor limit. After a successful booking, take the sightseeing bus from the Luoruo Tourist Center to enter. The fare is 48 yuan, and you must bring your ID for real-name verification. Visiting the Seda Buddhist Academy requires a 200 yuan deposit, which is refunded by the scenic area after your visit. ✅ Kasa Lake Free, with observation decks along the national highway. A stunning alpine freshwater lake on the Sichuan-Tibet Highway with crystal-clear water and lush aquatic plants. ✅ Kawaluori The God of Wealth Mountain stands at an altitude of 5,992 meters. It offers a perfect view of grasslands and snow-capped mountains together, and the "golden mountain" at sunset is breathtaking. The best time is around 8:00 PM. ✅ Yulonglaco (Xinlu Sea) Admission is about 60 yuan + 20 yuan for the sightseeing bus. Head east on G317 for about 2 hours to reach Yulonglaco (Xinlu Sea), a glacial lake formed by the melting ice of Que'er Mountain. It features Tiffany-blue water, reflections of snow-capped mountains, and clusters of Mani stones. ⚠️ If you are short on time, you can just do the mountain and lake viewing trail, which takes about 40 minutes. ✅ Derge Parkhang Admission is 50 yuan/person. Purchase tickets on-site; no booking required. The foremost of the three major printing houses in the Tibetan region, featuring 300 years of hand-carved woodblock printing—an encyclopedia of Tibetan culture. ✅ Yarchen Gar Follow the Ganbai Road for about 2.5 hours to reach Yarchen Gar. The route passes through snow-capped mountains, grasslands, and lakes, and is known as one of the most beautiful county roads for a road trip. From the Yarchen Gar observation deck, you can overlook the crimson huts on the Ani Island. It is the world's largest center for female monastic practice, quiet and primitive.

Just got back from Cuopugou in Western Sichuan. I spent most of the day wandering around, and while I was exhausted, the experience was absolutely incredible. 📍Basic overview Located right next to the G318 National Highway, this place combines snow-capped mountains, meadows, hot springs, and lakes. Tickets are available for self-driving and non-self-driving visitors, making it perfect for those who enjoy in-depth travel. 🗺️Itinerary Day 1 > Visitor Center > Rekeng Hot Spring > Zhangde Grassland > Cuopu Lake Tip: If you aren't self-driving, you'll need to take a bus, so wake up early to catch the first one. ✨Highlights The scenery captures the essence of Western Sichuan, and the 2.8 km loop trail around the lake is flat and easy to walk. It is a great spot for photos of snow-capped mountain reflections. I recommend choosing between the shuttle bus or hiking based on your energy levels. 🍜Local specialties Hot spring eggs (buy them at Rekeng), butter tea (rich and refreshing), and highland barley cakes (from local stalls). 🏨Accommodation recommendations 1. Homestays near the scenic area: Batang Cuopugou Xibore Homestay, where you can see the mountains right outside your door. 2. City hotels: Batang Xueyu Zhaxi Hotel, which is very convenient for transit and dining. 🎒Travel essentials 1. Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses 2. Carry-on items: Thermos, snacks 💡Practical tips 1. There is no lunch available in the scenic area, so be sure to bring your own snacks. 2. Get there early in the morning to see the misty hot springs. 3. Watch out for altitude sickness while hiking around the lake; don't push yourself too hard. 4. You must transfer to a shuttle bus to get to Cuopu Temple. The wind blowing from the snow-capped mountains was cold, but I felt this trip was truly worth it.

👉 Autumn foliage is now live at Yulong Lacuo! Photos taken on Sep 19, 2026 Why are you still crowding into Jiuzhaigou? 😭 The ultimate hidden gem for autumn foliage in Western Sichuan is right here! Yulong Lacuo, right off the G317, is breathtakingly beautiful in autumn 🏔 Milky blue sacred lake + Que'er Mountain snow peaks + gradient-colored forests along the shore Very few tourists, no need to fight for a spot, and every shot looks cinematic 📸 📸 Photo spots ▪️ Lakeside boardwalk: Shoot from a low angle to capture the lake, snow-capped mountains, and colorful forests in one frame ▪️ Prayer flag corridor: Wind blowing through the prayer flags creates a perfect Tibetan atmosphere ▪️ White Pagoda viewing platform: Overlook the entire lake for an incredible panoramic view 💡 Tip: The light is soft between 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM, making the lake reflections look amazing 👗 Autumn outfit tips Off-white/creamy apricot base layer + bright-colored windbreaker Bundle up when cold, take it off for photos. Be sure to wear non-slip shoes! The wind by the lake is fierce 🗺️ Practical guide 📍 Navigation: Yulong Lacuo Visitor Center (next to G317 National Highway) 🎫 Admission + sightseeing bus approx. 80 RMB/person | Recommended stay: 2–3 hours ⚠️ Important reminders ▪️ Altitude ≈ 4,040m! Walk slowly, don't run, and bring sunscreen and oxygen canisters ▪️ Huge temperature difference between day and night, don't be lazy about bringing a thick jacket ▪️ Respect local customs: do not step on prayer flags and do not leave any trash

· This is the busiest and most congested time of the year. Besides traveling off-peak, route planning is key. By "Garzê," I don't just mean the county seat, but the entire Garzê Prefecture. Its main features can be summarized as: snow-capped mountains + grasslands + river valleys + forests + lakes + Tibetan culture. And it's not a "sightseeing destination" type of place. Recommended route: G317 + Ganbai Road + Genyen (optional) 1️⃣ Avoid crowded commercial scenic spots 2️⃣ Travel a bit further ahead or behind the peak times to avoid the crowds 3️⃣ Besides the iconic snow-capped mountains and alpine lakes of Western Sichuan, you can add cultural sites like Yarchen Gar, Zhuqing Monastery, and Derge Parkhang. Visit Katok Monastery and avoid Seda 4️⃣ Photography-friendly; a wide-angle and a telephoto lens are enough. The snow-capped mountain scenery is all along the way 5️⃣ All are free attractions; no tickets or reservations required 6️⃣ If you have enough time, add Genyen (hotels are expensive during peak season) 🗺️ D1. Chengdu - Luding - Danba D2. Zhonglu Tibetan Village - Dangling - Dandao Secret Realm - Dorje Yuchong Snow Mountain - Yuke Grassland - Luhuo D3. Kasa Lake - Garzê County - Yarchen Gar - Lalong Lake - Ganbai Road - Baiyu D4. Baiyu - Katok Monastery - Xinlu Sea (Yulong Lhatso) - Que'ershan Glacier Viewing Platform - Danxia Town - Garzê D5. Garzê - Daofu - Moshi Park - Tagong Town D6. Tagong Grassland - 434 Airport Highway - Chengdu tip🔔: If you only have 5 days, after finishing Garzê on the 4th day, the last day involves 10 hours of pure driving back to Chengdu. It is recommended that 2 people take turns driving. Sharing an 8/10-day route; if you get stuck in traffic, come find me D1. Chengdu - Zhonglu D2. Dangling - Dandao Secret Realm - Yuke Grassland/Daofu County D3. Kasa Lake - Luori Campsite - Garzê County D4. Baili Barley Gallery - Danxia Town - Cuotong Cuihu Lake - Manigange D5. Dangzhen Lake - Zhuqing Monastery - Derge D6. Baiyu - Ronggai Township - Yarchen Gar - Changtai Grassland - Lalong Lake - Zhuodala Mountain - Garzê County D7. Luhuo County - Gunong Village - Balang Shengdu Starry Sky Campsite - Tagong Town D8. Muya Grand Temple - Provincial Highway 434 - Honghaizi - Chengdu · Or add 2 more days for Genyen to complete the loop ⚠️ Note 1. Recently, the mountain passes near Jiagenba for viewing Gongga and Yala Snow Mountains have been closed. Don't make the trip for nothing 2. The road to Guanyinqiao is under construction; it will be very tight if you drive there from Chengdu on the same day 3. This route is also suitable for autumn in Western Sichuan in November 4. There are many geological hazards in mountainous areas; check local disaster forecasts

Escape the hustle and bustle of the world and head to Barkam, Aba. High above the clouds on Mount Changlie, have a gentle encounter with a millennial ancient temple. Hidden in the mountains of western Sichuan, this secret, ancient temple is neither ostentatious nor noisy. With its mountain serenity and Zen spirit, it welcomes every seeker who comes in search of their heart. The winding mountain road leads upward, taking you further away from the noise of the world with every step. Clouds and mist are the most dynamic filter for Changlie Temple. On sunny days, the red walls and golden roofs are clear and striking, gazing out at the distant snow-capped mountains across the vast, clear landscape. On rainy days, thin mist wraps around the mountains, and the temple hides in the sea of clouds, creating a hazy, ethereal scene as if a celestial palace has descended to earth. Over eight hundred years have passed, and this ancient temple stands quietly on the summit, witnessing the changing seasons and the flow of human life, its original intention unchanged, as serene as ever. Walk deep into the temple, and you will find devotion and craftsmanship everywhere. The solemn and majestic main hall houses a rich and precious collection of scriptures. The texts, hand-printed by the Derge Parkhang, carry the wise maxims of past masters and embody a profound Tibetan cultural heritage. Inside the hall, the scent of incense lingers, and the fragrance of yak butter fills the air. Standing silently with hands pressed together, your restless heart instantly finds peace. True practice is never about deliberate enlightenment; it is about being in a pure place, learning to let go, and embracing equanimity. The long corridors stretch on, and the prayer wheels turn. The wishes and devotion of countless believers are hidden within this ceaseless rotation. Here, there is no hurried "checking in," only time that slows down. Listen to the Buddhist chants lingering in the air, hear the wind carrying the spirit of Zen, and watch the light and shadow fall upon the red walls and dark tiles—gentle, lingering, and timeless. Beyond its rich Buddhist heritage, this is also a place of original aspiration that holds a "red" warmth. As a patriotic revolutionary base in Aba, this millennial ancient temple not only carries faith and culture but also continues the revolutionary spirit, giving this landscape both the gentleness of Zen and the profound weight of patriotism. At dusk, the evening breeze gently blows, and the sea of clouds gradually returns to serenity. As you head back down the mountain, looking back at the ancient temple in the clouds, the golden roof still shines brightly. In the hustle and bustle of life, we all need such a pure place to rest our body and mind. The beauty of Changlie Temple lies not in the ultimate scenery, but in this peace far from the noise of the world, and in the gentle Zen spirit hidden in the mountains and seas, blended into the passage of time. A journey to the summit, a homecoming for the soul. From now on, in the ordinary life, may you always keep a pure heart, living up to the mountains and rivers, and living up to your original intention.

Western Sichuan is always the top choice for escaping the city hustle! I've been here many times. Every visit heals me with its alpine snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear blue lakes, and vast grasslands. Leaving behind the rat race and crowds, my mood instantly lifts 🌿 Sharing my 2025 National Day itinerary. By following a local veteran, we took the unconventional, niche Genie South Line route, perfectly avoiding peak times and crowds. The entire trip was unhurried, avoiding crowded influencer spots, focusing on spontaneity and freedom, and immersing ourselves in the ultimate scenery of Western Sichuan! 🚗 Tips for avoiding crowds On September 30 at noon, a friend drove to Ya'an in advance. After finishing work, we rushed to the high-speed train and met in Ya'an. On the train, we saw the Third Ring Road jammed with traffic, but we had a smooth ride all the way, heading straight to Tagong Grassland. It was 225 km and took about 4 hours, perfectly dodging the peak outbound traffic. 📝 Road Trip Itinerary Chengdu → Ya'an → Tagong Grassland Day 1 Tagong Grassland It was windy and rainy, so we decided to just slack off. We had barbecue and drinks with friends at the homestay, sat around relaxing, and felt totally chilled out. Day 2 Tagong → Tianzhu Secret Realm → Litang ✅ Tianzhu Secret Realm: A newly opened niche attraction in Tagong. The CNY 20 admission ticket can be exchanged for snacks and drinks at the scenic area supermarket. It's uncrowded and beautiful! There's an alpine lake where we used our own paddleboard to row and enjoyed the lake view all to ourselves. After exploring, we set off for Litang, a 230 km drive taking 4.5 hours. Day 3 Litang → Genie South Line → Batang [Core Itinerary] 🌟 Genie South Line: The legendary road trip route in Western Sichuan! The full 270 km route took us all day to drive and explore. The snow-capped mountains, grasslands, and primitive scenery were breathtaking. Every photo we took was a filter-free masterpiece, full of autumn vibes. ⚠️ Road conditions: Many potholes and difficult passing sections. Sedans can pass, but beginners should be cautious. Traffic jams are mostly caused by passing or vehicle breakdowns. There are very few toilets along the way, so remember to drink less water! Day 4 Batang → Babagou Blue Pine Lake → Cuo'a Town ✅ Babagou Blue Pine Lake: A sapphire secret realm hidden deep in Western Sichuan. The lake water is blue and transparent, there are few tourists, and the pristine scenery is incredibly healing. We passed by Ganbai Road, viewed Yulonglatso from afar, and overlooked the panoramic view. Although the road up the mountain almost made me crawl on all fours and triggered my fear of heights, the beautiful scenery was worth it. Day 5 Cuo'a Town → Cuotong Emerald Lake → Chengdu ✅ Cuotong Emerald Lake: We woke up early to climb to the top. It was a 19 km mountain road that took 1 hour, full of curves, so we drove very slowly. The drone shots of the blue lake and red mountain were visually stunning. On the way down, we stopped by a niche temple, which was breathtaking. For the 700 km return trip, 4 of us took turns driving, taking Panda Avenue to the Jingkun Expressway, and arrived in Chengdu safely at midnight. 💬 Travel ramblings The route looks winding, but with a local friend leading the way, the whole trip was worry-free. We didn't crowd into popular scenic spots or rush our time, truly enjoying the freedom of a road trip and the tranquility of Western Sichuan. For those who want to relax and love niche road trips, just copy this itinerary!

I spent quite a while debating between the first two routes, but now I've basically settled on this one. My approach this year remains the same: try to avoid popular, congested routes, and I don't want to spend every day rushing around just to hit niche spots. The general direction won't change much. The rest will just be minor adjustments based on the weather, road conditions, accommodation, and how I'm feeling each day leading up to the holiday. Current plan: Day 0 | Chengdu → Miyaluo Day 1 | Miyaluo → Gemo Monastery → Rangtang Day 2 | Rangtang → Kasa Lake → Knife-Edge Rock → Yulong Latsuo (depending on the situation) → Manigange Day 3 | Manigange → Katok Monastery → Yarchen Gar → Garze, taking the Ganbai Road Day 4 | Garze → Daofu → Danba, taking the Dandao Secret Route Day 5 | Danba → Chengdu This time, I still want to avoid the popular congestion point at Zheduo Mountain. When returning to Chengdu from Danba at the end, I won't be heading toward Zheduo Mountain, Road 434, or Xiaojin. What I like about this route is that it has everything—scenic roads, lakes, snow-capped mountains, and Tibetan culture—without the need to rush between tourist spots. If I find a place I like, I'll stay a while longer. If the weather is nice, I'll set up a table, brew some tea or coffee, and just sit there taking in the mountains and lakes. No getting stuck in traffic, and no rushing on the road. The route is basically set. If you're also heading in this direction during the National Day holiday, have a car, and have a compatible pace, we can travel together. If you don't have a car but our schedules and travel styles align, we can share a ride—we'll clarify the specific costs in advance. After all, since we'll be traveling together for 5–6 days, being compatible is more important than just filling seats.

Leaving Dege, we spent the entire day rooted in the Que'er Mountain loop, traveling from lake to lake. We checked off three high-altitude lakes in the Tibetan region, immersing ourselves in the unique, snowy tenderness of the Sichuan-Tibet Northern Route. After driving out of the long Que'er Mountain Tunnel, the biting highland wind rushed to meet us. Several Tibetan young men selling cordyceps enthusiastically gathered around. After politely declining, we officially began our journey to find "lakes" today. Our first stop was the famous Yulong Latso. The crystal-clear lake water was tinted with the emerald blue gifted by the glaciers. The continuous Que'er Snow Mountain stood majestically in the distance, and dark green virgin spruce forests spread along the lakeshore. A smooth road wound around the lake, and the clear surface perfectly captured the snow-capped peaks. With a quick shutter click, every frame was a piece of scenery exclusive to the Tibetan region. We stopped at a few viewing platforms to take photos. The meadow under our feet was covered with dense little dirt holes; it seemed we had intruded into the happy territory of highland marmots. Before we could even raise our cameras, these clever little creatures had already hidden in their burrows. Following the road, we turned onto a country path. Streams gurgled through the valley, and the riverbed was scattered with Mani stones engraved with the six-syllable mantra, quietly watching over this wilderness through the erosion of time. In the distance, the golden roof of a Tibetan-style temple appeared faintly under the blue sky, instantly enriching the wilderness. After driving for dozens of kilometers, we arrived at our second stop, Maniren Latso. Compared to the stunning Yulong Latso, this place was even more secluded. Snow-capped mountains embraced the lake, and the wind blew across the tranquil water. The relaxed peace unique to the wilderness was a gentle atmosphere that belonged only to the lakes. Bidding farewell to Maniren Latso, we continued along the G317 National Highway. A scene by the roadside struck a chord: a vulture was standing there, gnawing on the remains of a yak. My teammate, being bold, walked straight up to within a meter to take a photo. I felt timid and only dared to retreat more than ten meters away, capturing from afar the authentic natural law of the cycle of life in the Tibetan region. We continued our journey and arrived at Zhuqing Town. Looking out at the Dzogchen Monastery, with its red walls and golden roofs backed by snow-capped mountains, the architectural complex was magnificent and solemn. The Zen atmosphere of the Tibetan region rushed toward us. Unfortunately, the monastery was not open to the public that day, so we could only view this heavy solemnity of Tibetan religion from afar. Not long after, we encountered the last holy lake of the day — Zhuqing Dangzhen Latso. The clear blue-green lake water reflected the bright, clear sky, and the continuous snow-capped peaks gently embraced the lake. Walking slowly along the country dirt road, the mountain scenery became even more moving. By the stream, a father and son were laughing and playing. As the wind blew across the meadow, the fatigue of climbing over mountains and ridges all day dissipated at this moment. I thought we had perfectly concluded the day's itinerary, but upon arriving at our accommodation, I discovered that the camera's memory card was damaged. Most of the snow-capped mountains, lake views, and scenery along the way that I had captured throughout the day were corrupted and lost, and my joy turned to disappointment. Fortunately, my eyes had already collected all the snow-capped mountains, holy lakes, wilderness, and temples of Que'er Mountain. This regret on the Tibetan road became the best reason to return to Western Sichuan next time.

Ladies, autumn in Western Sichuan is absolutely stunning! September–October is the golden window. Skip the commercialized tourist traps and explore these 6 niche loop routes to unlock the raw, authentic autumn colors of the Tibetan plateau. Every shot you take will look like a wallpaper-worthy masterpiece📸 · *Short & Relaxing: 4-Day Ruoergai Grassland Route** The wetlands at Flower Lake are turning golden, and water birds are playing and swimming. In the evening, head to the viewing platform to wait for the sunset at the First Bend of the Yellow River🌅 The winding river is bathed in golden light—the atmosphere is absolutely magical! · *Must-Visit for Culture Lovers: 5-Day Dege Sutra Printing House Route** Cross Jiajin Mountain, check out Garzê County, and visit the Dege Sutra Printing House to witness the thousand-year-old tradition of manual sutra printing—it’s so moving it will give you goosebumps✨ Baiyu Monastery is built into the mountainside, where mountain villages and valley architecture complement each other, blending daily life with faith. · *For Lake & Mountain Lovers: 6-Day Southern Sichuan Secret Route** Connecting Mount Emei, Xichang, Lugu Lake, and Muli in one go! Muli is known as the "Source of Shangri-La." Cundong Haizi is quiet and picturesque, with very few tourists—it feels like you have the entire secret realm to yourself🏞️ · *For Experienced Travelers: 7-Day Northern Tibetan & Sichuan-Yunnan Border Loop** The unique architecture of the Serba Tibetan villages, along with the ever-changing scenery of snow-capped mountains, grasslands, and canyons through Xinlong, Xiangcheng, and Batang, offers a surprise around every corner, like opening a blind box🚗 💡Tips: Western Sichuan is at a high altitude with a huge temperature difference between day and night. Be sure to bring a windproof, thick jacket, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen🌞 Some mountain roads have many curves, so chartering a car or driving an SUV is recommended🚙 Avoid strenuous exercise and take time to acclimate to the altitude. Supplies in the towns along the way are limited, so stock up on snacks and drinking water in advance🥤 Try some Tibetan buns and butter tea, and enjoy the golden autumn of Western Sichuan in your own private paradise🥟

Zhuqing Dangzhen Lake is located in Zhuqing Township, Dege County, Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province. Its Tibetan name means "Great Perfection Lake," and it is a sacred lake under the jurisdiction of Zhuqing Monastery. At an altitude of about 4,000 meters, the lake is small but unique due to its distinct plateau lake ecosystem and religious significance. It can be reached by hiking for about an hour along the mountain path from Zhuqing Monastery. Along the way, prayer flags flutter in the wind, and mani piles can be seen everywhere. The lake's water changes color with the weather and light—a deep turquoise on sunny days, turning silver-gray on cloudy days. It is often covered in a thin mist in the early morning, and the lake surface acts like a mirror, reflecting snow-capped mountains and clouds. The lakeshore is a typical alpine meadow. In summer, wildflowers bloom everywhere, with yellow globeflowers and purple gentians weaving a carpet. There are no trees around the lake, offering an expansive view. Prayer flags flutter in the wind, and occasionally the scent of cypress incense from local Tibetan smoke offerings drifts by. Most curiously, there are no fish in the lake; locals call it the "Lake of Emptiness." Recommended activities Kora around the lake (approx. 40 mins): Walk clockwise around the lake. There are eight stupas along the way, where you can experience traditional Tibetan religious practices. Quiet contemplation: Sit on the grassy slope on the east side of the lake in the early morning or evening to watch the movement of light and clouds. Light hiking: The mountain path from Zhuqing Monastery to the lake is suitable for a leisurely walk, perfect for photographing prayer flags, mani piles, and plateau flowers. Birdwatching: In summer, you can see ruddy shelducks and black-necked cranes active in the lakeside wetlands. Practical tips Best time to visit: June–September (temperatures 5–20°C, sea of flowers and stable weather). October offers golden autumn colors, but it is already cold. Transportation: Drive or hire a car from Dege County to Zhuqing Monastery (approx. 3 hours), then hike or ride a horse (horses can be rented locally) up the mountain. Essentials: Down jacket (temperatures near zero in the morning and evening), sunscreen, sunglasses, altitude sickness medication, thermos, and trash bags (there are no trash cans). Important notes: The lake is a sacred religious site, so swimming, fishing, and loud noises are prohibited. Please respect local customs and walk clockwise when performing kora. Mobile signal may be unavailable, so download offline maps in advance. The beauty of Zhuqing Dangzhen Lake lies not in grandeur, but in silence. There are no traces of commercialization, no crowded tourists, only the dialogue between the wind and the prayer flags. What you need to prepare for this trip is not just your luggage, but a heart willing to slow down. If you are looking for a Tibetan destination that hasn't been labeled yet, this place is worth a one-day stop.

Autumn Foliage Travel Guide to Western Sichuan (346 words) September to November is the golden season for autumn foliage viewing in Western Sichuan. Snow-capped mountains, colorful forests, and alpine lakes intertwine to create a breathtaking landscape. A self-driving loop is highly recommended, allowing you to visit multiple hidden gems in one trip. Starting from Chengdu, the first stop is Changpinggou in Xiaojin Siguniang Mountain (150 RMB for a combined ticket). At an altitude of 3200-4700 meters, majestic snow-capped peaks are paired with layers of colorful forests; be aware of altitude sickness while hiking. Continue to Shaer Township in Jinchuan County, where the Hundred-Mile Red Leaf Valley is free to visit. The mountains are covered in red leaves, and the lower altitude reduces the risk of altitude sickness. The Naizigou Colorful Forest in Heishui County is also free, stretching for dozens of kilometers along a vibrant corridor of red, orange, and yellow leaves, creating a visually stunning spectacle, perfect for beginners. Heading west into the plateau, Kangding Mugecuo Lake (185 RMB for a combined ticket) offers crystal-clear waters reflecting the colorful forests. Litang's Genie Sacred Mountain and Xinlong Cuoka Lake offer free admission, boasting sacred snow-capped mountains and turquoise lakes. However, the extremely high altitude makes altitude sickness a serious concern; proceed with caution. Dege's Xinluhai Lake costs 30 yuan, offering tranquil and pristine lakes at the foot of glaciers. Ruoergai's Flower Lake offers a 110 yuan package deal, with vast, golden meadows in autumn. The roads in western Sichuan have many curves; drive cautiously and slowly. Prepare warm down jackets, sunscreen, and oxygen cylinders, as the temperature difference between day and night is significant at high altitudes. Signal strength is weak in some areas; download offline maps beforehand. Respect Tibetan customs, travel during off-peak hours, and immerse yourself in the magnificent autumn scenery of western Sichuan. Image Search Keywords (Copy to directly search for real-life photos) Litang Genie Sacred Mountain Autumn Photos, Xinlong Cuoka Lake Autumn, Dege Xinluhai Autumn Scenery, Ruoergai Flower Lake Late Autumn, Heishui Naizigou Colorful Forest, Jinchuan Shaer Township Hundred-Mile Red Leaves, Kangding Mugecuo Autumn Scenery, Siguniang Mountain Changpinggou Autumn Western Sichuan Autumn Travel Guide (346 words) September to November is the golden season for autumn viewing in Western Sichuan. Snow-capped mountains, colorful forests, and highland lakes intertwine to create an oil painting. A self-driving loop is recommended, allowing you to visit multiple hidden gems in one trip. Starting from Chengdu, the first stop is Xiaojin Siguniang Mountain Changpinggou. A package ticket costs 150 yuan. The altitude is 3200-4700 meters. Majestic snow-capped peaks are paired with layers of colorful forests. Be aware of altitude sickness while hiking. Continue to Jinchuan Shaer Township. The Hundred-Mile Red Leaf Valley is free to visit. The mountains are covered in red leaves, and the lower altitude makes altitude sickness less likely. The colorful forests of Heishui Naizigou are free to enter, stretching for dozens of kilometers along a vibrant corridor of red, orange, and yellow leaves, creating a visually stunning spectacle, perfect for beginners to enjoy autumn scenery. Heading west into the plateau, Kangding Mugecuo offers a 185 yuan package ticket, where the clear lake reflects the colorful forests. Litang Genie Mountain and Xinlong Cuoka Lake are free to enter, offering sacred snow-capped mountains paired with turquoise lakes, but the extremely high altitude can easily cause altitude sickness; proceed with caution. Dege Xinluhai costs 30 yuan to enter, with its tranquil and pristine lake at the foot of a glacier. Ruoergai Flower Lake offers a 110 yuan package ticket, where the autumn meadows turn golden, vast and boundless. The mountain roads in western Sichuan have many curves; drive cautiously and slowly. Prepare thick down jackets, sunscreen, and oxygen cylinders, as the temperature difference between day and night is significant at high altitudes. Signal strength is weak in some areas; download offline maps in advance, respect Tibetan customs, travel during off-peak hours, and immerse yourself in the magnificent autumn scenery of western Sichuan. Image search keywords (copy and search directly for real-life photos): Litang Genie Sacred Mountain in autumn, Xinlong Cuoka Lake in autumn, Dege Xinluhai in autumn, Ruoergai Flower Lake in late autumn, Heishui Naizigou colorful forest, Jinchuan Shaer Township's hundred-mile stretch of red leaves, Kangding Mugecuo in autumn, Siguniang Mountain Changpinggou in autumn.

10️⃣💎 Diamond | Songpan Ancient Town · Tibetan Boutique Hotel 11️⃣💎 Diamond | Bomi · Forest Cabin Hotel 12️⃣💎 Diamond | Cuopu Valley · Lakeside Resort Hotel 13️⃣💎 Diamond | Danba · Jiaju Tibetan Village Hotel 14️⃣💎 Diamond | Xinduqiao · Light and Shadow Gallery Hotel 15️⃣💎 Diamond | Barkam · Gyalrong Tibetan Village Hotel 16️⃣🥇 Platinum | Jiuzhaigou · Paradise Resort Hotel 17️⃣🥇 Platinum | Hongyuan · Moon Bay Resort Hotel 18️⃣🥇 Platinum | Zoige · Grassland Hotel 19️⃣🥇 Platinum | Bipeng Valley · Landscape Hotel 20️⃣🌟 Gold | Hailuogou · Glacier Hotel 21️⃣🌟 Gold | Kangding · Love Song Hotel 22️⃣🌟 Gold | Yajiang · Riverside Hotel 23️⃣🌟 Gold | Daofu · Tibetan Residence Hotel 24️⃣🌟 Gold | Dege · Sutra Printing House Hotel 🚗 **Sichuan-Tibet Line High-End Hidden Gem Vacation Guide** (Slow Travel Edition) High-end vacations on the Sichuan-Tibet line are just perfect for snow-capped mountain enthusiasts and lovers of Tibetan culture! We recommend an 8-day slow travel route—no rushing, focusing on immersive, scenic accommodations. You can even soak in mountain hot springs at night; it’s incredibly healing! 🫧 Day 1️⃣ Depart from Chengdu → Danba Jiaju Tibetan Village 🏡 Stay in a unique Tibetan-style hotel and experience the charm of Gyalrong folk houses. Outside your window, you'll see clusters of wooden cabins surrounded by greenery. Soaking in a hot spring while looking at snow-capped mountains during the day is absolutely amazing! Day 2️⃣ Xinduqiao 🌇 Check in at the Light and Shadow Gallery Hotel. The sunset over the grassland valley is breathtakingly beautiful—every photo you take is wallpaper-worthy! Day 3️⃣ Gongga Snow Mountain ⛰️ The Cloud Top Hidden Gem Hotel faces the King of Sichuan Mountains directly. The shock of the golden mountain at sunrise is maximized here—remember to bring your camera! Day 4️⃣ Litang → Batang 🌌 Stay at a grassland hot spring hotel. Lie back and watch the plateau starry sky at night while soaking in the hot spring—who can resist this experience! Day 5️⃣ Ranwu Lake 🌊 Watch the blue lake water from a lakeside homestay. Open your window in the morning to a fairyland. The Bomi forest cabins are hidden in the primeval forest—it’s so healing to breathe in the fresh air! Day 6️⃣ Laigu Glacier 🧊 Get up close to the blue ice spectacle. Stay a night at the foot of the glacier and feel the uncanny workmanship of nature! Day 7️⃣-8️⃣ Seda/Dege (Optional if time permits) 📿 Experience the profound Tibetan culture. The Dege Sutra Printing House is full of heritage and is also great for photos! 🌟 **Travel Tips** ✔️ Best time to visit: June–August, when the grass and trees are lush and the temperature is comfortable. ✔️ The plateau altitude fluctuates significantly, so prepare anti-altitude sickness medication and sun-protective clothing in advance. ✔️ We recommend chartering a car for a self-driving trip, allowing for flexible stops to enjoy the scenery—it's super free and easy. ✔️ If you have a sufficient budget, choose diamond-level hotels; if you are looking for cost-effectiveness, choose gold-level mountain inns, which offer equally stunning views. Slow down your pace and feel the healing and relaxation unique to the Sichuan-Tibet line between the snow-capped mountains and lakes! 💆‍♀️

Many travelers visiting Western Sichuan in autumn simply copy summer travel guides from July and August. They set off with high expectations based on stunning autumn photos, only to complain later that the region feels desolate and the reality doesn't match the pictures. It’s not that Western Sichuan isn't worth visiting; it’s just that the region from September to November isn't a continuation of summer scenery—it’s a completely different autumn experience. Autumn in Western Sichuan can be divided into three stages. The scenery, attractions, and recommended routes vary significantly depending on when you visit. Stage 1 | September: Autumn Preparation Scenery: Grasslands are slowly turning yellow, but large areas of colorful forests and red leaves haven't appeared yet. High-altitude areas may see their first autumn snow at any time. Snow-capped mountains and primeval forests are still stunning, though the summer wildflower season on the grasslands has ended. The rainy season ends during this period, bringing stable weather and significantly fewer tourists. It’s perfect for travelers on a budget who prefer a quiet experience while viewing snow-capped mountains and lakes. ✅ Recommended routes: Genyen South Route, Western Sichuan Small Loop (Gongga + Mount Siguniang) This entire route features snow-capped mountains, primeval forests, alpine lakes, and Tibetan temples. It’s uncrowded and perfect for an in-depth road trip. · Stage 2 | National Day Holiday: Early Autumn Exclusive Scenery: Grasslands are a richer golden yellow, and there’s a high chance of seeing the first snow. Forests are starting to turn yellow, and snow-capped mountains look cleaner and more transparent after a fresh dusting of snow compared to summer. ⚠️ Traditional popular autumn destinations like Xinduqiao, Jiagenba, Mount Siguniang, and Daocheng haven't reached their peak for colorful forests yet. Only high-altitude areas like Genyen will see the first wave of autumn colors. ✅ Recommended routes: Genyen South Route, Dandao Secret Realm, Ganbai Road, and the Ganzi–Dege Route (great for avoiding National Day crowds; these are niche, beautiful, and less crowded). ‼️ For the National Day holiday, we recommend avoiding departure on the 1st–2nd and return travel on the 6th–7th, as these days are most prone to traffic jams. · Stage 3 | Mid-October – Early November: Peak Golden Autumn in Western Sichuan Scenery: The colorful forests of Western Sichuan are in full bloom—the absolute highlight of the season, with visuals that even surpass summer. For the most stunning autumn views in Western Sichuan, visit these traditional scenic spots: Daocheng Yading, Jiuzhaigou, Mount Siguniang, Bipenggou, and more. There is also a golden autumn hiking route: Dangling (a hidden autumn gem certified by National Geographic, featuring deep blue alpine lakes surrounded by layers of colorful forests). ✅ Recommended routes Plenty of time (8–9 days): The ultimate Western Sichuan autumn experience, covering all the vibrant colorful forests in one trip. Limited time (5 days): The "Land of the Gods" small loop. It’s altitude-friendly, has a moderate distance, offers rich scenery, and is an easy way to experience late autumn in Western Sichuan. · Summary Understand the timing of autumn colors in Western Sichuan, avoid common travel pitfalls, and discover the true beauty of autumn in the region. Arrive at the right place at the right time to find your own unique mountain landscape.

Found another gem in Western Sichuan‼️ This Tibetan town in Dege is so beautiful I almost don't want to tell anyone about it🏔️ If you feel like popular spots in Western Sichuan are getting too crowded, you should really add Zhuqing Town in Dege to your road trip list! It is tucked away between the snow-capped mountains and grasslands of Garzê, at an altitude of about 3,800 meters, with no bustling crowds of tourists and no heavy commercial atmosphere. As you drive in, you'll find snow-capped mountains🏔️, meadows🌿, temples🛕, and blue lakes💎 everywhere. It's the kind of place where you only intended to stop by on the way, but once you arrive, you won't want to leave! ✨I'm willing to set aside a whole day just for this! Stop 1 | Zhuqing Monastery (Dzogchen Monastery) When you come to Zhuqing, you must visit this monastery hidden beneath the snow-capped mountains. Founded in 1685, Zhuqing Monastery is one of the six major mother monasteries of the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism. You can see the monastery spread out at the foot of the mountain from afar, with the Zhuqing Snow Mountain in the background. The scene truly captures that unique Tibetan vibe🙏 You can also eat vegetarian food at the monastery; it's said that the vegetarian hot pot buffet is about 40 yuan per person, and there is also a coffee shop☕. If you have the energy, you can walk towards the meditation caves on the mountain behind it to overlook the entire monastery from above—it's perfect for photos📷! Stop 2 | Zhuqing Dangzhen Lake This is a must-recommend‼️ It's a high-altitude lake at nearly 4,000 meters with no admission fee🎫 and not much commercial development. On sunny days, the lake water is a crystal-clear blue-green💙, with snow-capped mountains reflected on the surface and vast meadows nearby. Search for "Zhuqing Dangzhen Lake" in your navigation app. You can drive to a nearby parking spot and then walk about 10 minutes to the lake shore. Just sitting here in the breeze, doing nothing at all, makes the trip worth it. Stop 3 | Gakecuoma For those who love outdoor hiking, you can look into Gakecuoma, which is located above Dangzhen Lake🥾. This is a glacial cirque lake hidden at a high altitude and is the source of Dangzhen Lake. The scenery is very wild and stunning. However, the altitude is high and it requires hiking, so it's not recommended for casual tourists to go without preparation! Be sure to decide based on your physical fitness, equipment, and weather conditions. 🚗The drive is also super beautiful! Manigango ➡️ Zhuqing is about 40 kilometers. This stretch is the definition of "the scenery is on the road"! Snow-capped mountains, wetlands, and grasslands accompany you the whole way, and you'll want to stop and take photos whenever you see a spot you like📷. On the way from Zhuqing ➡️ Dege, you can also pass by Reshuitang, which is a great wild viewpoint for a quick rest. The scenery is beautiful, and there are restrooms, making it very friendly for long-distance road trips. ⚠️Remember these before you go: ✅Zhuqing is about 3,800 meters and Dangzhen Lake is about 4,000 meters. Watch out for altitude sickness, don't run or jump, and walk slowly ✅It's recommended to keep oxygen and water in the car. High-altitude weather changes quickly, so bring an extra layer of clothing🧥 ✅Signal in the mountains is unstable, so download offline maps in advance📱 ✅You might encounter yaks on some road sections🐂, so don't rush while driving ✅There aren't many accommodation options in Zhuqing, so book in advance during peak season ✅There are basically no commercial facilities by the lake, so bring your own water and food, and take all your trash with you♻️ ✅High-altitude roads are affected by weather and construction, so check real-time road conditions before you set off 💬Why recommend Zhuqing? Because it's so rare to find a Western Sichuan town where you "don't have to queue, don't have to deal with noise, and don't have to frantically search for photo spots" these days. You don't need to rush through attractions here. Walking around the monastery under the snow-capped mountains, zoning out at Dangzhen Lake, and driving through the grasslands and valleys... this might be the reason why I love Western Sichuan.🏔️🌿 If you are planning to travel along the Dege, Baiyü, and Manigango route, really don't just drive past Zhuqing! 📌Save this, and go here on your next Western Sichuan road trip!

🏔️ Zhugqing Monastery (also known as "Dzogchen Monastery"), known in Tibetan as "Zhugqing Ugyen Samten Ling," means "Great Perfection Monastery." Hidden in the northern part of Dege County, Garze, Sichuan, at an altitude of approximately 3,800 meters, it is one of the six major monasteries of the Nyingma school (Red Sect) of Tibetan Buddhism and the birthplace of the "Dzogchen" teachings. It is incredibly sacred! ✨ 📍 Address: Genda Village, Dege County, Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province ⏰ Opening hours: Open all year round (visit on a sunny day for amazing light and shadows~) 📅 Founded: 1685 AD (24th year of the Kangxi reign of the Qing Dynasty) by Pema Rigdzin, a disciple of the 5th Dalai Lama. It is the first monastery established by the Nyingma school in the Kham region, with a profound sense of history! 👑 🏛️ Architecture and artistic features · The monastery is built along the mountain slope, with distinct Kham-style architecture arranged in a well-ordered manner. The murals on the walls are so detailed they will leave you stunned. Every stroke reveals traditional craftsmanship and unique aesthetics 🎨 · Over the past 300+ years, 13 "rainbow body" achievers (a manifestation of ultimate practice in Tibetan Buddhism) have appeared here. Walking through the monastery, you can feel the spiritual energy in the air ~ 🌈 · Encountering two monks walking in front of the monastery during the day is such a healing scene. I couldn't stop taking photos 📸 🚗 Transportation: Zhugqing Monastery is located in Genda Village, Zhugqing Township, Dege County, about 160 km from the county seat. It is a long journey from Chengdu via Kangding and Garze County to Dege; self-driving or chartering a car is recommended ~ 🌤️ Best season: June–September, when the climate on the Western Sichuan Plateau is most pleasant, the meadows are lush and green, and they match the monastery's red walls and golden roofs perfectly! ⚠️ Altitude sickness warning: At an altitude of 3,800 meters, be sure to prepare for high altitude in advance! Do not run around excitedly; walk slowly to truly feel this tranquility 🙏

Yesterday, traveling from Baiyu to Dege, there was a landslide on National Highway 215. We were stuck in traffic for over four hours while they cleared the road. Fortunately, we arrived at the Dege Sutra Printing House workshop before it closed at 4:00 PM, so we didn't miss the tour! Today, we set off from Dege, passing Yulong Lhatso and the Chola Mountain Glacier along the way. We had lunch in Garze County and took the opportunity to visit the White Pagoda Park and Gesar King City. In the afternoon, we passed the Nailong Mountain Pass at an altitude of 4,580 meters (I forgot to take photos) and Dongga Monastery, before arriving in Seda County. 1. Chola Mountain Tunnel, at an altitude of 4,040 meters and a total length of 7,079 meters, is the world's highest ultra-long highway tunnel. The Chola Mountain Pass, at an altitude of 5,050 meters, was originally the highest highway pass on a national highway in Sichuan. Crossing the Chola Mountain Pass used to take two hours; the opening of the Chola Mountain Tunnel has shortened this time to ten minutes, which is a significant achievement. Of course, the title of the highest national highway pass in Sichuan has now passed to the Haizi Mountain Pass. 2. Yulong Lhatso Lake is a glacial lake formed by the melting of the Chola Mountain glacier and snow, at an altitude of approximately 4,040 meters. 3. Chola Mountain is massive, with over 30 glaciers of various sizes distributed around it. The glacier tongues can extend to the edge of the forest, looking like white silk hanging between the mountains from a distance. We were unlucky today; it was drizzling and overcast, so we only caught a glimpse of the edge of a glacier tongue. 4-6. The White Pagoda Park in Garze County is the family temple of the Nachang Living Buddha and is also known as the largest mandala in Western Sichuan. The main structure is a 37-meter-tall pagoda. The three-tiered base at the bottom was built according to the proportions of the base of the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests at the Temple of Heaven in Beijing, and it is surrounded by 119 smaller pagodas forming a pagoda forest. 7. Gesar King City was built on the site of the "Huo-Ling War" from the Epic of King Gesar. It is a project in Garze Prefecture that integrates industrial poverty alleviation with cultural tourism, though it is not very popular now. 8. Senzhudazi Palace in Gesar King City 9. Nepalese Commercial Street in Gesar King City 10. Dongga Monastery was built in the early 16th century and has a history of over 500 years. It is a branch of the Gelug school's Tashilhunpo Monastery and is located 13 kilometers from Seda County. It is a Gelugpa monastery that holds various religious ceremonies throughout the year. In 1936, when the Third Dongga Living Buddha was in residence, the troops under Commander-in-Chief Zhu De rested at the monastery for over half a month during the Long March. The monastery provided the troops with large quantities of food, clothing, horses, and other supplies.

Xinluhai (Tibetan: Yulong Lacuo) scenic area is located under Que'er Mountain in Dege County, 98 km from Ganzi County. It sits at an altitude of 4,040 m, with a lake surface area of about 6.2 square kilometers, an average depth of 10 m, and a maximum depth of 15 m. It is a famous glacial lake in Ganzi Prefecture. The water source comes from the glaciers and melting snow of Que'er Mountain. The stream flowing from the lake’s end is one of the headwaters of the Cuoqu River. Yulong Lacuo (also called Yulong Lacuo) means “heartfelt sacred lake” and is also known as the “Western Paradise Jade Pool.” According to the famous Tibetan epic King Gesar, the hero Gesar’s beloved consort Zhumu was so captivated by the lake and mountain scenery here that she lingered and could not leave, giving the lake its name. 1