Maoya Grassland

Introducing Maoya Grassland

Maoya Grassland is located west of Litang County, Ganzi Prefecture, Sichuan Province, in the middle section of the Shaluli Mountains of the Hengduan Mountains, with an altitude of 3,800-4,500 meters. It is distributed in a wide and long shallow basin between two mountains, covering an area of ​​more than 300 square kilometers. It is the only way from Litang to Daocheng Yading.

Maoya Grassland is blessed with unique natural beauty. Surrounded by mountains, it boasts a vast expanse of lush green grassland, home to herds of cattle and sheep roaming freely. Deep within the grasslands lies the crescent-shaped freshwater lake Ruogencuo. The Wuliang River, originating from the sacred Mount Genyen, meanders through the heart of the grasslands. A towering white pagoda stands on the grasslands, said to be one of the three great stupas built by Princess Wencheng during her visit to Tibet.

China National Geographic once selected Maoya Grassland as one of the six most beautiful grasslands in China. If you come to Litang and don't roll through Maoya Grassland, you've really not been there.

Climate and best time to travel

In summer, beneath a clear blue sky, herds of cattle and sheep roam the landscape, green grass stretches to the horizon, and wildflowers bloom in vibrant colors, leaving even a rolling surface filled with the fragrance of flowers. In autumn, the sky is clear, the clouds are pristine, and the grass and trees are golden. In winter, the snow blankets the plains, and the landscape waxes like wax. The changing seasons imbue the prairie with boundless charm and grace.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-3 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Maoya Grassland

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Maoya Grassland is a high-altitude Tibetan grassland in Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan. It holds cultural importance for Tibetan communities and is significant for its natural beauty, biodiversity, and traditional pastoral lifestyle.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

• Location: Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, western Sichuan, China.
• By car or taxi: The most practical way from Kangding or Litang.
• By bus: Local buses connect nearby towns to the grasslands but schedules are limited.
• Walking: Short trails within the grasslands can be explored on foot.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Open year-round.
• Best times to visit: Late spring to early autumn (May–October) for mild weather and lush landscapes.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

• Entrance fees vary depending on the exact area and local tourism policies, generally 30–80 CNY per person.
• Tickets are usually purchased on-site at the entrance; online options are limited.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking is generally not required except for group tours or peak holiday periods; in such cases, 1–2 weeks in advance is recommended.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

1–2 days to explore the main grassland areas, enjoy horseback riding, and visit local Tibetan settlements.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Vast rolling meadows dotted with yaks and horses.
• Local Tibetan herding villages.
• Mountain viewpoints offering panoramic views of the grasslands.
• Wildflower fields in spring and summer.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Local guides are available, usually in Mandarin; English-speaking guides may be arranged through specialized tour operators.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• High hilltops overlooking the grasslands for sunrise or sunset shots.
• Near streams or yak grazing areas for authentic cultural photography.
• Wildflower fields in bloom during late spring.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Morning: Arrive and explore nearby villages.
• Afternoon: Horseback ride across the main grassland areas.
• Evening: Sunset photography and optional camping.
• Next day: Short hike to nearby hilltops for panoramic views.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are limited but camping under the stars is possible. No official light shows are available.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

• Generally not crowded due to its remote location.
• Least crowded: Weekdays and outside Chinese national holidays.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Basic facilities in local villages: small shops and restaurants.
• Limited toilets near main tourist areas.
• Bring water and snacks when exploring remote areas.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Accessible for children and elderly with moderate mobility. Terrain may be challenging for disabled visitors due to uneven paths and high altitude.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

• Cash (CNY) is preferred in villages and local shops.
• Mobile payments (WeChat, Alipay) may be accepted in some locations.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Local Tibetan-style restaurants serving noodles, yak meat, butter tea, and dairy products; limited cafes, mainly in nearby towns.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are limited; halal options are rare, but local Tibetan dairy and vegetable dishes are available.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Guesthouses, Tibetan-style lodges, and small inns in nearby villages and towns like Seda (Sertar) or Kangding for overnight stays.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Siguniang Mountain for trekking and scenic views.
• Kangding Horse Racing Festival (seasonal).
• Nearby Tibetan monasteries and temples.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Handicrafts, Tibetan jewelry, prayer flags, yak wool textiles, and local dairy products.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Private car or taxi to nearby towns like Seda, Kangding, or Litang.
• Limited local buses for connections to larger regional cities.