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The Labahe Nature Reserve in Ya'an, Sichuan Province, located in Tianquan County, Ya'an City, lies in the high mountains and deep valleys where the Sichuan Basin transitions to the western Sichuan Plateau. The reserve boasts a favorable ecological environment, a complete spectrum of vegetation distribution, and a rich variety of flora and fauna, including numerous rare and protected species.
The Laba River is a natural gene bank for rare wild plants and animals. The cliffs of Beimu Mountain stretch over ten miles, hundreds of feet high, creating a majestic spectacle. A glimpse of blue bees juts out from the Grand Canyon, where cascading waterfalls tower overhead. The Laba River's waterfalls are nestled within the secluded valley. At Suosuopenggou, Luzigou, Mofanggou, and Yinchangping, you can witness hundreds of wildebeests lapping saltpeter and herds of water deer playing in the water, a truly spectacular sight. Monkeys frolic and pheasants flit through the forest. The azalea forest is a vibrant spectacle. The "Four Treasures Forest," a mixed collection of Davidia involucrata, Ficus microcarpa, Tetracarpus truncatum, and various maple trees, creates a beautiful forest landscape.
Subtropical monsoon humid climate;
Best time to visit: May to October
Recommended 1-day tour
Luchi
Located at an altitude of 2,400 meters, on a relatively flat mountainside, Deer Pond is a nearly 10-acre alpine lake. It earned its name from the fact that wild deer often rest and drink here. A wooden plank path skirts the tranquil lake, leading you deep into the jungle. Stepping inside, you'll feel a sense of winding paths and elegant forest scenery.
Silver Cave Sea
Yindong Lake encompasses the Redwood Forest, Silver Cave, Gold Cave, and Yindong Lake. Surrounded by mountains and shaded by lush trees, Yindong Lake boasts a small, quaint pavilion with carved beams and painted rafters. The shimmering waters reflect the sky, trees, and mountains, creating a hazy, ethereal, and captivating scene.
Jiaoshan
Jiaoshan is the main peak of Labahe Scenic Area, with an altitude of more than 3,700 meters. It is mainly famous for its ten thousand acres of rhododendrons, ten thousand miles of sea of clouds and ten thousand feet of golden mountain.
58 yuan/person
5:00-23:00
Laba River in Ya’an, Sichuan, is known for its pristine natural environment, rich biodiversity, and cultural importance as part of the region’s river network. It plays a key role in local ecology and is a popular destination for nature tourism and outdoor activities.
Located in Ya’an city, Sichuan Province. Accessible by taxi or private car from Ya’an city center. Some local buses connect nearby villages, but direct access is easiest via taxi or guided tour.
Open daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Spring and autumn offer the best weather and scenic beauty.
Entrance fees range from 20–50 CNY depending on the season. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or through local tourism websites.
Advance booking is recommended during public holidays or weekends, ideally 1–2 days prior to the visit.
2–5 hours depending on whether you hike, fish, or explore multiple river sections.
Guided tours are mostly available in Chinese; English tours can be arranged by special request. Audio guides are generally not provided.
Start at the main entrance, follow the riverside trail, explore scenic viewpoints and forest paths, visit small waterfalls, and return via the main trail. Optional stops include picnic areas and nearby cultural spots.
Night visits are generally not allowed. Special tours or festivals may occur occasionally but are not regular.
Weekdays are generally quiet. Weekends and public holidays can be crowded, particularly at popular viewpoints and picnic areas.
Main paths and riverside walkways are suitable for children and elderly. Some trails with uneven terrain may be challenging for disabled visitors.
Mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted; carrying cash is recommended for small vendors.
Local eateries and small cafes near the river entrance serve Sichuan cuisine and light snacks.
Vegetarian options are available at local restaurants. Halal options are limited and may require prior arrangement.
Guesthouses, small hotels, and eco-lodges are available within a few kilometers of Laba River.
Souvenirs include local handicrafts, eco-friendly products, and small artworks depicting the river and surrounding scenery.
Taxi or private car is recommended to reach nearby attractions or return to Ya’an city. Limited local buses connect nearby villages and towns.
