Dead Tree Beach

What are the most recommended things to do in Dead Tree Beach?

  • Take a peaceful walk along the beach, enjoying the unique scenery of the dead trees scattered across the shoreline.
  • Photograph the surreal and haunting landscape of the dry, gnarled trees against the backdrop of the river and mountains.
  • Explore the surrounding natural environment, including nearby trails and wildlife spotting.
  • Visit the nearby Tibetan villages to experience the local culture and traditional lifestyles.

Introducing Dead Tree Beach

Dead Tree Beach is located in Changpinggou of Siguniang Mountain. Dead sea buckthorn and miscellaneous trees left a pile of dead stumps on the river beach, so it is called "Dead Tree Beach".

According to legend, the Dead Tree Beach is the remains of the war between Abalayi and the Meldo family. Meldo used magic to summon a flood, which drowned Abalayi's army. The dead soldiers turned into tall tree trunks. Later, the flood receded, but the tree trunks still stood here.

Climate and best time to travel

The Siguniang Mountain Scenic Area is known for its "four seasons in one day, year-round tour" and offers unique attractions in each season. The best viewing spots are spring in May and June and autumn in September and October.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Suggested playing time: about half an hour

Tickets

Included in the Changpinggou Scenic Area ticket

Attraction opening hours

7:00-17:00


Most Popular FAQs for Dead Tree Beach

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

Dead Tree Beach is a unique natural site known for its eerie, dry trees that have been shaped by both natural and environmental factors. The beach holds cultural significance to the local Tibetan community, who view it as a sacred site linked to spiritual beliefs and local legends.

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

Dead Tree Beach is located in the Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Sichuan, China. It can be accessed by taxi or private car from Chengdu. It is recommended to hire a local guide for better navigation.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The beach is open year-round, though the best times to visit are from spring to autumn when the weather is milder. It is ideal to visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.

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

There is no formal entrance fee for visiting Dead Tree Beach, but small donations may be encouraged at the site. There is no official online ticketing system, and most visitors pay on-site.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for Dead Tree Beach, as it is a public and open area. However, booking accommodations or a local guide ahead of time is recommended.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You can explore Dead Tree Beach in about 1-2 hours. If you plan to hike or explore surrounding areas, allow up to half a day for a more thorough visit.

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

  • The desolate yet beautiful stretch of beach with its characteristic dead trees.
  • The view of the surrounding mountains and river, offering breathtaking photo opportunities.
  • Nearby Tibetan villages, providing a cultural contrast to the natural landscape.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin and sometimes English, depending on the guide. It’s advisable to hire a guide for more context on the local culture and history.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • The beach itself, especially where the trees meet the water, offers dramatic photo opportunities.
  • From the hilltops surrounding the beach, you can capture panoramic views of the whole landscape.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main entrance and walk along the beach to explore the dead trees. If you're up for it, hike to the higher viewpoints for panoramic views of the area.

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

Night visits are not typically recommended due to the remote location and lack of lighting. There are no light shows or special tours available at this attraction.

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

The beach is generally not very crowded, especially outside of public holidays. Weekdays, particularly early mornings or late afternoons, are the least crowded times to visit.

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

Basic facilities such as toilets and resting areas are available at the site. However, there are no food vendors directly at the beach, so visitors should bring their own water and snacks. Small shops are available near the entrance.

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

The beach itself may not be suitable for elderly or disabled visitors due to uneven terrain. Children can enjoy the site with supervision, but care should be taken near the water's edge.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is generally accepted, but mobile payments (like WeChat Pay and Alipay) are also commonly used in the area. It’s recommended to carry some cash, especially if traveling to remote areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

  • There are no large restaurants inside Dead Tree Beach, but small local eateries and food stalls can be found in nearby villages.
  • For a wider range of dining options, Chengdu is about a 4-5 hour drive away.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian food is available in local eateries, and there are some vegetarian-friendly options in nearby Tibetan villages. Halal food options may be limited, but some Tibetan dishes may be suitable for halal diets.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

  • There are guesthouses and small hotels in nearby Tibetan villages or towns, offering basic accommodations.
  • For more luxurious options, visitors can stay in Chengdu and make a day trip to Dead Tree Beach.

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

  • The Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is about a 3-4 hour drive from the beach.
  • Local Tibetan monasteries and villages offer a glimpse into the culture and are also worth visiting.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Small souvenir shops near the entrance offer handmade Tibetan crafts, including scarves, jewelry, and wooden carvings. Local products like yak butter and traditional teas are also common souvenirs.

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

  • Taxis or private cars can be arranged to continue the journey to Chengdu or nearby attractions.
  • Public buses are limited in the area, so it’s best to arrange private transport for further travel.