Unleash Earth's Palette! The Ultimate Guide to Aba's Stunning Scenery~

## Aba Travel Guide: Exploring the Secret Paradise of the Western Sichuan Plateau Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, located in the northwest of Sichuan Province, is a shining pearl on the Western Sichuan Plateau. With its magnificent natural scenery, unique Tibetan and Qiang culture, and rich tourism resources, it is a dream destination for many travelers. Whether you are a photography enthusiast pursuing natural landscapes or a cultural explorer keen on experiencing local customs, Aba can meet your expectations. I. Best Time to Visit May–October: This is the golden season for tourism in Aba, with a pleasant climate and charming scenery. In May and June, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of alpine rhododendrons in full bloom; July and August are the greenest time on the grassland and a great place to escape the summer heat; September and October are the seasons of colorful autumn scenery, with forests turning vibrant colors, which is breathtaking. November–April of the following year: Aba in winter is covered in silver, which has a unique flavor, but some scenic spots may be closed due to heavy snow. Please check relevant information before traveling. II. Transportation By Plane: Aba Hongyuan Airport and Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport are the main air hubs, with direct flights from cities such as Chengdu and Chongqing. By Car: Starting from Chengdu, you can take a long-distance bus or drive to various parts of Aba. Driving is the most flexible way to visit Aba, but pay attention to the road conditions on the plateau and weather changes. Chartered/Shared Car: For tourists who do not want to drive, you can choose a chartered or shared car for convenience. III. Recommended Attractions 1. Jiuzhai Valley "Having seen Jiuzhai, you won't be interested in other water features." Jiuzhai Valley is world-renowned for its magical waterscapes. Emerald lakes, layered waterfalls, colorful forests, snow-capped peaks, and Tibetan customs are known as the "Five Wonders" of Jiuzhai Valley. Recommended Attractions: Five Flower Lake, Five Color Pond, Nuorilang Waterfall, Long Lake, Shuzheng Lakes Tips: Jiuzhai Valley Scenic Area implements a traffic restriction policy, so you need to book tickets in advance. 2. Huanglong Huanglong is famous for its "Four Wonders" of colorful ponds, snow-capped mountains, canyons, and forests, and has the world's largest and best-preserved open-air travertine landscape. Recommended Attractions: Five Color Pond, Huanglong Temple, Contending Beauty Pond, Golden Sand Pavement Tips: Huanglong has a high altitude, so pay attention to preventing altitude sickness. 3. Mount Siguniang Mount Siguniang is composed of four continuous peaks, known as the "Oriental Alps". It is an ideal place for mountaineering, hiking, and photography. Recommended Attractions: Shuangqiao Valley, Changping Valley, Haizi Valley Tips: Mount Siguniang is suitable for tourists of different physical fitness levels. You can choose a suitable route according to your own situation. 4. Ruoergai Grassland Ruoergai Grassland is one of the three largest wetlands in China, with lush grass and abundant water, and herds of cattle and sheep, with magnificent scenery. Recommended Attractions: Flower Lake, the First Bend of the Yellow River, Langmusi Temple Tips: Summer is the most beautiful season on the grassland. You can experience activities such as horseback riding and camping. 5. Dagu Glacier Dagu Glacier is the youngest glacier in the world and also the glacier with the lowest altitude. It has unique glacier landscapes and rich animal and plant resources. Recommended Attractions: Glacier Viewing Platform, Golden Monkey Lake, Zena Co Tips: The climate in Dagu Glacier is cold, so pay attention to keeping warm. 6. Other Recommended Attractions: Bipenggou, Miyaluo, Taoping Qiang Village, Songpan Ancient City IV. Recommended Local Cuisine Tibetan Food: Tsampa, butter tea, yak meat, highland barley wine Qiang Food: Mashed potatoes, Qiang cured meat, sauerkraut noodles Sichuan Cuisine: Hot pot, skewers, Mapo tofu V. Accommodation Recommendations Aba has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Jiuzhai Valley and Huanglong: It is recommended to stay in hotels near the scenic area for easy access. Mount Siguniang: It is recommended to stay in hostels in Rilong Town or at the entrance of Changping Valley. Ruoergai Grassland: It is recommended to stay in Tibetan tents or yurts on the grassland to experience the life of herdsmen. VI. Travel Tips Altitude Sickness: Some areas of Aba have high altitudes, so pay attention to preventing altitude sickness. It is recommended to take Rhodiola and other medicines in advance and avoid strenuous exercise. Weather Changes: The weather on the plateau is changeable, so prepare warm clothes and rain gear. Sun Protection and Moisturizing: The ultraviolet rays on the plateau are strong, so take sun protection measures and pay attention to moisturizing. Respect Local Culture: Aba is home to Tibetan and Qiang ethnic groups, so respect local customs and religious beliefs. VII. Recommended Itinerary 5-Day Tour: Chengdu - Jiuzhai Valley - Huanglong - Ruoergai Grassland - Chengdu 7-Day Tour: Chengdu - Mount Siguniang - Danba - Seda - Barkam - Chengdu Aba is a charming place with countless amazing natural landscapes and cultural customs. We hope this guide will help you plan an unforgettable trip to Aba and explore this secret paradise on the Western Sichuan Plateau.