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Explore the Dagu Glacier by hiking along its scenic trails, enjoy panoramic views from the glacier observation deck, and experience the unique alpine environment. Visit the nearby hot springs and enjoy the stunning ice and snow formations during winter.
The Dagu Glacier Scenic Area, located in Heishui County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, China, is a natural ecotourism destination that combines glaciers, snow-capped mountains, forests, wildlife, and meadows. Three Tibetan villages nestled against the mountainside are located in the area: Upper, Middle, and Lower Dagu. Nearby lies the Dongcuo Sun and Moon Sea, the tranquil and luminous eye of the glacier. The three major glaciers here—Glaciers 1, 2, and 3, covering an area of 82,500 square kilometers—are the soul of the entire scenic area. The Dagu Glacier Scenic Area has been recognized as the most attractive new scenic spot, Sichuan's best vacation destination, the best destination for viewing red leaves, China's colorful glacier—an ice and snow paradise, and a photography paradise. Dagu Glacier was selected as the fourth most beautiful Sichuan scenic spot in the "Natural Beauty" category by Xuehua.
Suitable for all seasons;
The monsoon plateau climate zone has distinct dry and rainy seasons, abundant sunshine, small annual temperature differences, and large daily temperature differences.
It is recommended to play for 1-3 hours;
A great place to enjoy the beautiful scenery and take photos.
Tickets: 120 yuan, sightseeing bus: 70 yuan, cable car: 180 yuan
08:30-17:30; Last admission: 15:30 (Monday to Sunday, May 1st - October 1st)
09:00-17:30; Last admission: 15:00 (October 2nd - April 30th of the following year, Monday to Sunday)
The Dagu Glacier is one of the largest and most accessible glaciers in the eastern Tibetan Plateau. It holds significant geological and ecological importance, offering a unique landscape of ice, snow, and diverse flora and fauna. It's also a popular destination for eco-tourism and research.
The Dagu Glacier is located in Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province. The best way to get there is by taxi or private car from Chengdu, which is approximately 350 km away. There are no metro services, but buses from Chengdu can also be an option for budget travelers.
The Dagu Glacier is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn, when the weather is milder and the landscapes are at their most vibrant. The winter months offer dramatic snow-covered scenery, but temperatures can be very cold.
The entrance fee is approximately ¥80 to ¥100. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, and while online ticketing is available through some platforms, it's recommended to buy them on-site due to fluctuating availability.
Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory, but it's advisable during peak tourist seasons (May to October). You can book online 1-2 days ahead of your visit, but onsite ticket purchasing is generally possible.
A full visit to the Dagu Glacier, including hiking and exploration of the scenic area, typically takes about 4-6 hours. If you plan to visit multiple attractions nearby, a full day may be required.
Highlights include the glacier observation deck, the scenic hiking trails with views of the glacier, the nearby hot springs, and the beautiful alpine meadows. The ice and snow formations during winter are a major attraction.
Guided tours are available, usually in Mandarin, and they can be arranged upon arrival or in advance. Audio guides are not commonly available in multiple languages, so booking a guide may be necessary for non-Mandarin speakers.
The best photography spots are from the glacier observation deck, along the hiking trails, and near the hot springs area. The surrounding snow-capped peaks and lush alpine meadows offer stunning backdrops for photos.
Start by visiting the glacier observation deck for an overview, then hike along the scenic trails to explore the ice formations. If you have more time, visit the hot springs to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Night visits and light shows are not available at the Dagu Glacier. However, special eco-tours or research tours may be arranged upon request, particularly for groups interested in the natural environment.
The Dagu Glacier can get crowded during peak seasons (spring and summer). The least crowded times are during the winter months (November to February), but visitors should be prepared for cold weather and snow.
Basic facilities, including toilets, food stalls, and rest areas, are available near the entrance and throughout the park. However, the area is remote, so it's advisable to bring your own water and snacks, especially for longer hikes.
The Dagu Glacier area can be challenging for elderly visitors or those with mobility issues due to the rough terrain and elevation. However, there are some accessible areas near the entrance and observation deck. It's best to check the accessibility conditions beforehand if special needs are a concern.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used in the area. Credit cards are less likely to be accepted, so it's advisable to carry enough cash or use mobile payments for convenience.
There are a few small restaurants and cafes near the entrance offering local Tibetan cuisine. For more variety, you can find restaurants in the nearby town of Songpan, which is about an hour away by car.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some local restaurants, though the options may be limited. Halal food is not widely available in the area.
There are several guesthouses and hotels in the nearby town of Songpan and smaller accommodations near the entrance to the Dagu Glacier Scenic Area. For more comfort, visitors can stay in Chengdu and take a day trip to the glacier.
Nearby attractions include the Songpan Ancient Town, Huanglong Scenic Area, and the Jiuzhaigou Valley. These can be combined into a multi-day trip, with Songpan and Jiuzhaigou being particularly popular for day trips from the Dagu Glacier.
Souvenir shops are available near the entrance, selling Tibetan handicrafts such as prayer beads, thangkas (religious paintings), and local woolen products. The typical souvenirs include Tibetan jewelry, scarves, and handcrafted items.
The best transportation options to continue your trip are by taxi, private car, or bus. For visitors traveling to Chengdu or other nearby attractions, buses and private cars are the most convenient options.
