Western Sichuan in May through July is truly healing, like stepping into a manga.

**Western Sichuan** refers to the plateau region in western Sichuan, encompassing the Garzê Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture and the Ngawa Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture. It is the heart of the Hengduan Mountains. With stunning landscapes of snow-capped mountains, grasslands, lakes, and forests, as well as a rich Tibetan culture, it is a paradise for road trippers, photographers, and hikers. **I. Best Time to Travel** * **May-October:** Pleasant weather, the most beautiful scenery, lush grasslands, and blooming wildflowers. * **July-August:** Rainy season, be aware of natural disasters such as mudslides, but also a good time to escape the heat. * **Mid-to-late October:** Intoxicating autumn colors, colorful forests, suitable for photography. * **November-April:** Winter, some scenic areas are closed, but you can enjoy the snow scenery and experience Tibetan New Year. **II. Recommended Classic Routes** **1. Western Sichuan Small Loop (5-7 days):** Suitable for travelers with limited time * **D1:** Chengdu - Four Girls Mountain (Shuangqiao Valley) - Danba * **D2:** Danba (Jiaju Tibetan Village) - Bamei - Tagong Grassland - Xinduqiao * **D3:** Xinduqiao - Moishi Park - Zheduo Mountain - Kangding - Luding Bridge - Hailuogou * **D4:** Hailuogou - Chengdu **2. Western Sichuan Grand Loop (7-10 days):** In-depth experience of Western Sichuan scenery * **D1:** Chengdu - Wenchuan - Malkang - Guanyinqiao * **D2:** Guanyinqiao - Seda Larung Gar Buddhist Academy - Seda County * **D3:** Seda - Ganzi - Xinlong * **D4:** Xinlong - Litang - Daocheng - Shangri-La Town * **D5:** Aden Scenic Area Long Line (Milk Sea, Five-Color Sea) * **D6:** Aden Scenic Area Short Line (Pearl Sea) - Daocheng * **D7:** Daocheng - Xinduqiao * **D8:** Xinduqiao - Chengdu **3. Other Recommended Routes:** * **Mount Gongga Loop:** Admire the magnificent scenery of Mount Gongga, the King of Sichuan Mountains. * **Daocheng Yading Line:** Explore the "Last Shangri-La." * **Seda Line:** Experience the shock of Tibetan Buddhist culture. **III. Must-See Attractions** * **Four Girls Mountain:** The Alps of the East, a paradise for hikers. * **Danba Tibetan Village:** One of the most beautiful villages in China, experience the Jiarong Tibetan culture. * **Tagong Grassland:** Vast grassland, overlooking Yala Snow Mountain. * **Xinduqiao:** A photographer's paradise, with beautiful interplay of light and shadow. * **Moishi Park:** Unique landforms like an alien planet. * **Hailuogou:** Low-altitude modern glacier, rich in hot spring resources. * **Seda Larung Gar Buddhist Academy:** The world's largest Tibetan Buddhist academy, a sea of red houses. * **Daocheng Yading:** "The last pure land on the water-blue planet," with three sacred mountains, Milk Sea, and Five-Color Sea. * **Mount Gongga:** The King of Sichuan Mountains, the sunrise over the golden mountain is spectacular. **IV. Travel Tips** * **Altitude Sickness:** Western Sichuan has a high average altitude. Take precautions against altitude sickness, avoid strenuous exercise, and prepare oxygen tanks and medication. * **Weather Changes:** The plateau weather is changeable, with large temperature differences between day and night. Prepare warm clothes and rain gear. * **Road Conditions:** Some road sections are in poor condition. It is recommended to choose an SUV or chartered car. * **Sun Protection:** The plateau has strong ultraviolet rays. Take sun protection measures. * **Respect Local Culture:** Western Sichuan is a Tibetan settlement. Respect local customs and religious beliefs. * **Environmental Protection:** Protect the plateau's ecological environment and do not litter. **V. Food Recommendations** * **Tibetan Food:** Butter tea, tsampa, yak meat, and highland barley wine. * **Sichuan Cuisine:** Hot pot, Chuan Chuan Xiang, Mapo Tofu, etc. * **Others:** Stewed chicken with matsutake, highland potatoes, etc. **VI. Accommodation Recommendations** * **Tibetan Homestays:** Experience Tibetan culture. * **Hotels:** Choose hotels with good conditions to ensure a good rest. * **Camping:** Camping is available in some scenic areas. Pay attention to safety and environmental protection. **VII. Transportation** * **Airplane:** There are airports in Chengdu, Kangding, Daocheng, etc. * **Bus:** Chengdu Chadianzi Bus Station has buses to various places in Western Sichuan. * **Self-driving:** The most flexible way to travel, but pay attention to safety. * **Chartered Car:** Convenient and worry-free, suitable for group travel. **VIII. Budget** * **Budget:** CNY 300-500/day * **Comfort:** CNY 500-800/day * **Luxury:** CNY 800+/day **IX. Important Notes** * Plan your itinerary in advance and book accommodation and transportation. * Prepare necessary documents, such as ID card, driver's license, etc. * Purchase travel insurance to ensure your safety. * Keep communication open and contact family and friends at any time. **X. Conclusion** Western Sichuan is a magical land with breathtaking natural scenery and unique cultural charm. I hope this guide can help you plan an unforgettable trip to Western Sichuan!