A Stunning Trip to Xinduqiao and Western Sichuan
My husband and I visited Xinduqiao, and it was even more breathtaking than Switzerland. If you're traveling to western Sichuan, you must stay at the Zamba·Mingjing Hotel. The environment is stunning, with large floor-to-ceiling windows offering views of grazing cattle and sheep. The rooms are equipped with oxygen supply and oxygen tanks. The front desk staff, who are local Tibetans, are incredibly warm and genuine.
In the evening, they prepared snacks and milk for us, which were absolutely delicious! They also introduced us to Tibetan culture. The view from the room's window overlooks a picturesque wheat field, and the moment you draw the curtains, you're healed by the beauty of nature. Relaxing in the bathtub while listening to vinyl records and gazing at the scenery outside is pure bliss.
🏔️ The grasslands resemble a vast green carpet adorned with colorful wildflowers. 🌸 Occasionally, a few horses gallop across the plains, like spirits leaping out of a painting.
Tips:
① When you first arrive at high altitudes, avoid strenuous activities. Take it slow, and hold off on washing your hair or taking a bath to prevent altitude sickness.
② Don't forget thick jackets, hats, scarves, and sunglasses. The mountains are cold and windy.
③ Food and supplies in the Daocheng Yading Scenic Area are expensive and limited, so bring some snacks just in case.
④ Be cautious about taking the long hiking route in Yading—it requires significant physical stamina. Don't push yourself too hard.
⑤ Western Sichuan is vast! The attractions are far apart, and you might encounter uninhabited areas. If you're visiting for the first time and aren't confident in your driving skills, joining a small group tour is safer.
⑥ Avoid low-cost tours, as they often come with hidden traps. Opt for a small group of around six people for a pure travel experience. Our guide this time was fantastic—experienced, friendly, and there were no forced or hidden expenses. The vehicle even provided free oxygen tanks and machines, which was very reassuring.
Our itinerary:
D1: Chengdu
After arriving in Chengdu and checking into the hotel, we explored Kuixinglou Street or Jianxian Lane in the evening to enjoy various local delicacies.
D2: Chengdu - Kangding - Honghaizi - Provincial Road 434 Snow Mountain - Muya Monastery - Xinduqiao
Heading west into the Hengduan Mountains, we visited Honghaizi, a beautiful lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks, resembling a jade gem. Passing through Tagong Grassland, we admired Yala Snow Mountain and Yamu Sacred Mountain before reaching the Muya Monastery deep in the grasslands. We explored the chanting hall, the monks' academy, the Mani Stone City, and joined locals in their prayer rituals. The golden rooftops of the monastery at sunset, framed by snow mountains, were breathtaking.
D3: Xinduqiao - Zesangla Sky Garden - Duorang Village - Jiagenba - Jueli Temple Pass - Xinduqiao
In the morning, we arrived at Riche Village, a place of idyllic bridges, streams, villages, and pastures straight out of a Studio Ghibli film—perfect for photography. Next, we visited Zesangla Sky Garden, where the layered views of Gongga Snow Mountain, nearby meadows, and forests were like a painting. At Duorang Village, we tried grinding barley flour at a water mill and enjoyed afternoon tea at a Tibetan home. Later, we headed to Jueli Temple Pass, where we saw the complete Gongga Twelve Peaks and Yala Snow Mountain. The scenery was unbeatable.
D4: Xinduqiao - Yajiang - Litang - Kamba - Maoya Grassland - Tibetan Opera Training Center - Litang
Following the Sichuan-Tibet Highway (Route 318), we reached Litang. After lunch, we explored Maoya Grassland, which hosts grand horse racing festivals in summer. On the way to Tiejiang Mountain Pass, we enjoyed panoramic views of Litang County. At the top of Dongshan, we dined and experienced traditional Tibetan opera with staff from the Tibetan Opera Training Center.
D5: Litang - Haizi Mountain - Bangpu Monastery - Chonggu Monastery - Xiannairi - Yading Village
In the morning, we entered Haizi Mountain, a surreal landscape filled with glacial boulders. Then, we visited Bangpu Monastery, where the murals are worth savoring. By noon, we reached Shangri-La Town, had lunch, and entered the Yading Scenic Area. In the afternoon, we took the short route to Zhuomalacuo Lake, passing Chonggu Monastery and finally arriving at the foot of Xiannairi Sacred Mountain. The scenery along the way was stunning. At night, we stargazed in Yading Village.
D6: Yading Long Route - Luorong Pasture and Three Sacred Mountains, Two Sacred Lakes - Shangri-La Town
After breakfast, we returned to Zaguangbeng and walked to Chonggu Meadow, then took an electric cart to Luorong Pasture. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and wildflowers, Luorong Pasture is the inspiration for Blue Moon Valley and feels like a paradise. If you're physically fit, you can hike to Milk Lake and Five-Color Lake. The trek is beautiful, with snow mountains above and peaceful meadows below. However, as the altitude increases, the hike becomes more challenging. If you're tired, you can stop at Gongga Lake to photograph the reflection of Yangmaiyong Sacred Mountain before heading back.
D7: Return from Shangri-La Town