Self-Driving Guide to Western Sichuan on National Highway 318

I. Itinerary Planning Suggested Itinerary: 10-12 Days 1. Day 1: Chengdu • Main Attractions: Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Jinli Ancient Street, Kuanzhai Alley • Accommodation: Chengdu Central Hotel 2. Day 2: Chengdu - Ya'an (approx. 140km) • Passing through: Yucheng District • Main Attractions: Yanv Lake, Panda Base • Accommodation: Ya'an Hotel 3. Day 3: Ya'an - Kangding (approx. 120km) • Main Attractions: Luding Bridge, Kangding Love Song Scenic Area • Accommodation: Kangding Hotel 4. Day 4: Kangding - Xinduqiao (approx. 80km) • Main Attractions: Xinduqiao, a photographer's paradise, enjoy the beautiful scenery of grasslands and snow-capped mountains. • Accommodation: Xinduqiao Guesthouse 5. Day 5: Xinduqiao - Litang (approx. 110km) • Main Attractions: Litang Grassland, World's Highest City • Accommodation: Litang Hotel 6. Day 6: Litang - Daocheng (approx. 150km) • Main Attractions: Daocheng Yading Scenic Area • Accommodation: Guesthouse near Daocheng Yading 7. Day 7: Daocheng - Yading (approx. 90km) • Main Attractions: Yading Nature Reserve, Milk Lake, Five-Color Lake • Accommodation: Yading Village Homestay 8. Day 8: Yading - Hailuogou (approx. 200km) • Main Attractions: Hailuogou Glacier, Hot Springs • Accommodation: Hailuogou Hotel 9. Day 9: Hailuogou - Lugu Lake (approx. 180km) • Main Attractions: Lugu Lake, experience the Mosuo culture • Accommodation: Lakeside Guesthouse at Lugu Lake 10. Day 10: Lugu Lake - Return to Chengdu (approx. 360km) • Main Attractions: You can choose to stop and visit other small attractions along the way. • Accommodation: Chengdu II. Attractions along the way • Kangding: Luding Bridge, Kangding Love Song Square • Xinduqiao: A paradise for photography enthusiasts, the best photography spot • Litang: Litang Grassland, experience the life of herdsmen • Daocheng Yading: Rare animals and plants, hiking • Hailuogou: Experience the spectacular glaciers and relax in the hot springs • Lugu Lake: Mosuo culture and beautiful lake III. Precautions 1. Altitude sickness: Pay attention to acclimatization in high-altitude areas (such as Litang, Yading). It is recommended to bring oxygen tanks and common medications. 2. Driving safety: The road conditions in the mountainous areas are complex. Pay attention to speed limits and maintain a safe distance. It is recommended to check road conditions at any time. 3. Weather changes: Be prepared for the plateau climate with clothing suitable for large temperature differences between day and night. 4. Fuel supply: Gas stations are scarce in some sections, so fill up your tank in advance. 5. Respect local culture: Respect Tibetan culture, especially when traveling in Tibetan areas. IV. Driving Advice • Navigation: Download offline maps in case of unstable signals. • Vehicle inspection: Ensure the vehicle is in good condition before departure, especially the brakes and tires. • Spare tire and tools: Bring a spare tire and simple car repair tools in case of emergencies. I hope this guide can help you plan an unforgettable self-driving trip on National Highway 318 in Western Sichuan!