Daocheng Yading Travel Guide: The Last Shangri-La

Located in Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, Daocheng Yading is hailed as "the last pure land on the blue planet." With magnificent landscapes including snow-capped mountains, lakes, grasslands, and forests, it's a paradise for photography enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. Must-Visit Attractions 1. Yading Scenic Area (Three Sacred Mountains) - Xiannairi (6,032m): Resembles a giant Buddha, the highest of the three sacred mountains - Yangmaiyong (5,958m): Pyramid-shaped snow peak, the most elegant - Xianuoduojie (5,958m): Majestic and unique in shape 2. Pearl Lake - Alpine lake at the foot of Xiannairi with emerald green waters - Best photography time: 7-9 AM 3. Milk Lake - Ancient glacial lake at 4,600m with milky white waters - 3-4 hours hike required, beware of altitude sickness 4. Five-Color Lake - Magical lake that reflects five colors under sunlight - About 30 minutes walk from Milk Lake 5. Luorong Pasture - Filming location for "I Belonged to You" - Covered with wildflowers in summer and golden grass in autumn Local Cuisine Recommendations 1. Tibetan Food - Butter tea: 15-20 CNY/pot, helps with altitude sickness - Yak meat hotpot: 80-100 CNY/person, delicious meat - Tsampa (barley cake): 5-10 CNY/piece, best with butter tea 2. Sichuan Dishes - Chicken stew with matsutake mushrooms: Seasonal delicacy, 150-200 CNY/serving - Tibetan pork: Firm texture, 60-80 CNY/serving 3. Specialty Drinks - Yak yogurt: 10-15 CNY/bowl, sweet and sour - Barley wine: 20-30 CNY/pot, low alcohol content Budget Accommodation Guide 1. Shangri-La Town (Riwa Township) - Hostels: 50-80 CNY/bed - Guesthouses: 100-150 CNY/standard room 2. Yading Village - Tibetan homestays: 150-200 CNY/room - Dormitories: 60-80 CNY/bed 3. Daocheng County Town - Budget hotels: 120-180 CNY/standard room - Family inns: 80-120 CNY/room Practical Travel Tips 1. Best Seasons - May-October: Pleasant climate, most beautiful scenery - September-October: Stunning autumn colors, golden period for photography 2. Transportation - Flight: Direct from Chengdu to Daocheng Yading Airport (1 hour) - Bus: From Chengdu Xinnanmen Station (2-day journey) - Self-drive: About 12 hours from Chengdu 3. Essentials - Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat (extreme UV radiation) - Oxygen canister (20-30 CNY/can) - Windbreaker (large temperature difference between day and night) 4. Cost Reference - Entrance fee: 146 CNY (peak season)/120 CNY (off-season) - Sightseeing bus: 120 CNY (round trip) - Electric cart: 80 CNY (round trip to Luorong Pasture) Special Reminders 1. Altitude sickness: Acclimatize 1-2 days in advance, avoid strenuous exercise 2. Environmental protection: No smoking in scenic area, take trash with you 3. Accommodation conditions: Limited facilities in Yading Village, bring toiletries 4. Weather changes: Mountain weather is unpredictable, bring rain gear Daocheng Yading is a place that captures hearts and minds, where every snow-capped mountain and each lake exudes primitive and mysterious charm. Whether you're a hiker seeking challenges or a traveler searching for inner peace, you'll find your own moving experience here. Pack your bags and embark on a soul-cleansing pilgrimage! In this pure land, you'll encounter nature at its most pristine and discover your truest self.