Zechawa Village

Introducing Zechawa Village

Zechawa Village is located at the entrance of Zechawa Valley in Jiuzhaigou, next to the Nuorilang Service Center. It is one of the nine villages in Jiuzhaigou and one of the three villages still existing in Jiuzhaigou. However, most of the villages except Heye Village, Shuzheng Village and Zechawa Village have been relocated.

Zechawa Village is a Tibetan village at the entrance of Zechawa Valley. Zechawa Valley is named after this village. The Tibetans here are all very devout Bonpo believers. Prayer flags are hung at the door of every household, and they believe in the oldest Tibetan religion, Bonpo.

Zechawa Village is also the only way to travel to Jiuzhaigou Changhai and Wucai Pool.

Climate and best time to travel

Jiuzhaigou's scenery has its own unique characteristics in each season, but most people prefer to visit in late autumn. The colorful forests and the blue-green lakes create a vibrant world.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended playing time: half an hour to 1 hour

Tickets

Tickets are included in the Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area ticket

Attraction opening hours

Temporarily closed

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Most Popular FAQs for Zechawa Village

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

Zechawa Village is a remote Tibetan village in the Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. It holds cultural significance as a traditional settlement where Tibetan customs and lifestyle are preserved. The village provides an opportunity to experience authentic Tibetan rural life, untouched by urbanization, and offers insight into the history of the Tibetan and Qiang people.

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

Zechawa Village is located in the Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Sichuan. The village can be reached by bus or taxi from Chengdu, which is about a 6-7 hour drive away. Local transport options may be limited, so it's advisable to travel by private car or taxi for more flexibility. There are no metro services in the area.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Zechawa Village is a living, rural area, so it is always open to visitors. The best time to visit is during the summer and early autumn months (June to September) when the weather is mild, and the natural beauty of the mountains is most vivid. Winters can be very cold, and roads may be difficult to access due to snow.

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

There is no fixed entrance fee for visiting Zechawa Village. However, visitors may need to pay for certain activities, such as guided tours or cultural performances. It’s advisable to arrange these in advance either through local tour operators or by contacting the village authorities directly.

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

Booking tickets or tours in advance is not strictly necessary for visiting Zechawa Village, but it is recommended for cultural activities or guided tours. It is best to arrange these at least a few days before your visit, especially during peak tourist seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Zechawa Village and take in its unique culture and natural surroundings, a visit of 3-4 hours is typically sufficient. If you plan to hike in the nearby mountains or participate in local activities, you may want to spend a full day in the area.

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

• The traditional Tibetan houses, which offer insight into local architecture and lifestyle.
• The surrounding mountain landscapes, which provide great opportunities for hiking and photography.
• Local cultural sites where you can see Tibetan crafts, performances, and interact with villagers.
• The village's unique agricultural terraces, which highlight the farming traditions of the region.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin and possibly English, depending on availability. It is recommended to book a guide in advance, as the village is quite remote, and English-speaking guides may be limited.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The highest point of the village provides a panoramic view of the entire area, including the surrounding mountain ranges.
• Close-up shots of the traditional Tibetan houses and their intricate designs are also highly recommended.
• The terraced farming areas and the valley below offer stunning natural vistas.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start by walking through the village center to observe the traditional houses and local markets.
• Next, explore the agricultural areas and interact with locals to learn about their farming methods.
• End the day with a scenic hike or a visit to a nearby hill for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

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

Night visits are not common, as the village is a rural area with limited lighting and facilities. There are no light shows or special tours, but you can enjoy the quiet, starry skies if you stay overnight in the nearby accommodations.

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

Zechawa Village is not typically crowded, especially compared to more urban tourist spots. It’s best to visit on weekdays or during the off-season (early spring or late autumn) to avoid any influx of tourists.

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

• Basic toilets are available in the village, but facilities may be more rustic compared to urban areas.
• Local food and water can be found in small shops and local eateries in the village.
• Rest areas may be limited, so it's a good idea to bring your own supplies and take breaks as needed.

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

The village is not very accessible for the elderly, children, or disabled visitors due to uneven terrain and lack of paved pathways. It is recommended to prepare for some rough walking or hiking if you plan to explore the area.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is preferred in Zechawa Village, and mobile payments may not be widely accepted due to the remote location. It is advisable to carry sufficient cash for purchases and activities.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• There are small local eateries in the village offering traditional Tibetan food, such as yak meat and tsampa (barley flour).
• For more variety, consider visiting the nearby town or city in Aba Prefecture, where there are more restaurant options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are limited in Zechawa Village, but vegetarian dishes like stir-fried vegetables and barley bread may be available. Halal food options are not commonly found in this area, as the local cuisine is predominantly Tibetan.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a few guesthouses in the village, but accommodations are basic. For more comfortable options, you can stay in the nearest town, where more hotels are available.

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

• The town of Maoxian, known for its beautiful mountain scenery and Tibetan culture.
• Wolong Nature Reserve, home to giant pandas and other wildlife, is nearby and can be visited for a full day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops in the village where you can purchase Tibetan handicrafts, woolen goods, and jewelry. Local textiles and handmade items are popular souvenirs.

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

• Private car or taxi is the best way to continue your trip from Zechawa Village.
• Local buses and taxis are available to take you to nearby towns, but schedules may be limited.