Is Daocheng Yading Worth Visiting in March?
Hey guys👋, I'm a travel enthusiast obsessed with exploring stunning scenery😎. I just returned from Daocheng Yading, and this March trip was absolutely mind-blowing. I have to share this super detailed guide with you.
📍Daocheng Yading is located in the south of Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan. It's the last pure land on this water-blue planet, where snow-capped mountains, glaciers, canyons, forests, meadows, and lakes complement each other, primitive and pure. The rich Tibetan Buddhist culture adds a veil of mystery, making it seem like a fairyland beyond the earthly world. Every inch of land exudes awe-inspiring charm.
🚗【Transportation Guide】
✈️Most people choose to fly to Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport or Tianfu International Airport first, and then transfer to Daocheng Yading Airport. Although it's a bit of a hassle, the moment you step off the plane, the azure sky and magnificent snow-capped mountains will instantly sweep away your fatigue. There are direct buses from the airport to the scenic area, which is super convenient.
🚗If you have plenty of time and want to enjoy the scenery along the way, you can also take a bus from Chengdu. The journey will take you over mountains and through valleys, allowing you to experience the magnificence of western Sichuan. However, the journey is long, so be prepared.
🚌There are sightseeing buses inside the scenic area, which are a must-buy. They can take you to various attractions and save you energy, which is crucial at high altitudes.
🗺【Recommended Itinerary】
Day 1: Daocheng - Yading Scenic Area (Short Route)
Depart from Daocheng for Yading Scenic Area in the morning. Upon entering the scenic area, you'll be stunned by the magnificent snow-capped mountains. Take the sightseeing bus to Zhaguanbeng, then hike to Chonggu Temple, enjoying the holy and magnificent Xiannairi Snow Mountain along the way. In the afternoon, take the short route to Pearl Lake, where the lake reflects the snow-capped mountains like a fairyland, perfect for taking beautiful photos📷.
Day 2: Yading Scenic Area (Long Route)
Challenge the long route today. Take the electric car to Luorong Cattle Farm, where you'll be speechless at the beauty of the snow-capped mountains and murmuring streams. Then head towards Milk Lake and Five-Color Lake. Although the hike is arduous, seeing the crystal-clear and colorful lakes makes it all worthwhile. Remember to bring oxygen and snacks to replenish your energy along the way😣.
Day 3: Yading Scenic Area - Daocheng
In the morning, revisit any missed spots in the scenic area and soak in the charm of the snow-capped mountains and meadows. Return to Daocheng at noon, stroll through the local market, experience Tibetan customs, and buy some local specialties.
🌟【5 Must-Visit Attractions】
📍Xiannairi Snow Mountain: The highest of the three peaks in Daocheng Yading, it resembles a giant Buddha, solemn and majestic. The summit is covered with snow all year round, and the sunrise over the golden mountain is breathtaking.
📍Pearl Lake: Located near Chonggu Temple, the lake's surface is as calm as a mirror, reflecting Xiannairi Snow Mountain. The interplay of green and white creates a dreamlike scene.
📍Milk Lake: A turquoise pool surrounded by snow-capped mountains, the lake's color is as gentle as milk, and the surrounding golden meadows create a stunning picture.
📍Five-Color Lake: Under the sunlight, the lake's surface displays five colors, mysterious and enchanting. Standing by the lake feels like being in a fairyland.
📍Luorong Cattle Farm: A vast meadow beneath the snow-capped mountains, where herds of cattle and sheep graze leisurely, and streams meander, creating a scene of idyllic beauty.
📌【Practical Tips】
🎫Book tickets and sightseeing bus tickets online in advance to avoid wasting time queuing on-site.
👗Daocheng Yading is still very cold in March. Down jackets, hiking jackets, thermal pants, non-slip and waterproof hiking shoes, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential, as the UV rays are very strong at high altitudes.
📸If you want to photograph the starry sky, find a place with no light pollution, such as the rooftop of your hotel, and bring a tripod. To capture the sunrise over the snow-capped mountains, check the time in advance and secure a spot at the viewing platform.
🍜【Local Food Recommendations】
🥘Butter Tea: A traditional Tibetan drink, salty, fragrant, and rich. It can warm you up and alleviate altitude sickness. You might not be used to it at first, but you'll grow to love it after a few sips.
🍜Tsampa Cakes: Baked with roasted barley flour, they have a crispy exterior and a soft interior, with a unique barley aroma and are very filling.
🥣Yak Hot Pot: The stewed yak meat is tender, and the soup is delicious and flavorful. A perfect way to warm up in the cold highlands.
🐟Tibetan Grilled Fish: Marinated with unique spices, the fish is tender and the skin is crispy, offering a unique flavor.
🥔Tuotuo Meat: Large chunks of boiled pork dipped in seasoning. The meat is firm and satisfying.
🏨【Hotel Accommodation】
📍Daocheng: Daocheng Huangting Hotel, conveniently located with comfortable rooms, allows you to rest well and adapt to the high altitude environment before entering the scenic area.
📍Yading Scenic Area Entrance: Daocheng Yading Huajing Wenlan Hotel, close to the scenic area with convenient transportation, complete facilities, and attentive service.
📍Yading Village: Daocheng Yading Village Sada Homestay, wake up to the view of snow-capped mountains and fall asleep under the starry sky. A fantastic experience, but the altitude is high, so be mindful of acclimatization.
💖【Travel Experience】
During these three days in Daocheng Yading, I felt like I had stumbled into a secluded fairyland. The towering snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, vast meadows, and the warm hospitality of the Tibetan people touched my heart deeply. Although the journey was arduous and the altitude sickness was uncomfortable, seeing those breathtaking views made it all worthwhile. Daocheng Yading is like a dream I don't want to wake up from. Guys, you must come and experience it. I believe you will be captivated by it too💕.