Secret Exploration｜Caoyutan One-Day Tour Guide: The Forgotten Thousand-Tower Buddhist Kingdom by Time

Less than a two-hour drive from Chengdu, in Ya'an, lies a hidden secret often overlooked by most. Here is the Thousand-Tower Buddhist Kingdom, known as the "Little Angkor Wat," with moss-covered rock carvings and a 13-kilometer pristine hiking trail. If you're tired of crowded tourist spots, why not come to Caoyutan this weekend and embark on a unique adventure of discovery? 🌿 Must-Visit Attractions Thousand-Tower Buddhist Kingdom Upon entering the scenic area, the most stunning sight is the cluster of 108 Buddhist towers built along the mountain. The Reclining Buddha rests against the green hills, facing the river, with half-closed eyes as if guarding this pure land. The towers stretch from the mountaintop down to the riverbank, appearing even more solemn and mysterious in the mist, making every photo look like a masterpiece. Riverside Trail Stroll along the trail by the Qingyi River, flanked by dense tree ferns and moss-covered stone paths. Sunlight filters through the leaves, casting dappled shadows, while Buddhist towers hidden in the woods appear and disappear, as if stepping into a scene from an adventure movie. Loop Hiking Trail The 13-kilometer loop trail is a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts. It’s recommended to hike in groups and download the route in advance. Along the way, you can enjoy natural scenery and visit abandoned temples, experiencing a unique atmosphere frozen in time. However, for safety reasons, solo trips to the abandoned mountaintop areas are not advised. Rock Wall Carvings Along the scenic route, rock walls are carved with multiple scenes from the life of Shakyamuni Buddha, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship. These weathered carvings add profound cultural depth to the natural landscape. 🚗 Travel Guide Transportation · Self-driving: About 2 hours from Chengdu, navigate to "Caoyutan Scenic Area," parking fee 10 RMB/day · Public transport: Take the high-speed train from Chengdu to Ya'an, then transfer to a local shuttle bus Food Recommendations There are no dining options inside the scenic area, but several local restaurants are available at the exit. Recommended dishes: · Ya'an Fish Hotpot: Made with wild fish from the Qingyi River, incredibly fresh and delicious · Farmhouse Cuisine: Seasonal wild vegetables and cured pork, authentic rural flavors Accommodation Suggestions No lodging inside the scenic area; options include: · Liujiang Ancient Town: Experience unique homestays renovated from traditional Western Sichuan residences · Gaomiao Ancient Town: Immerse yourself in the authentic ancient town atmosphere 💡 Helpful Tips 1. Gear: Wear non-slip sports shoes, bring sunscreen and insect repellent 2. Best photo times: Early morning when the mist lingers for atmosphere, and afternoon for the best light 3. Eco-friendly travel: Bring your own water bottle and carry out all trash 4. Safety first: Some areas are slippery with moss, watch your step carefully 5. Itinerary planning: Recommend starting early and returning early, allowing 5-6 hours for the visit This hidden gem near Chengdu offers both mysterious cultural sites and pristine natural beauty. While it’s still relatively unknown, make your plans now!