Munigou Zhaga Waterfall

Introducing Munigou Zhaga Waterfall

Zaga Waterfall is located 40 kilometers away from Songpan County, in the Housi Valley of Sanlian Village in the Muni Scenic Area. It is one of the two major scenic spots in the Muni Valley Scenic Area.

Zhaga Waterfall is a multi-layered cascade, known as "China's No. 1 Travertine Waterfall." Standing 93.2 meters high and 35-40 meters wide, the water cascades down a massive calcified terrace, creating a majestic cascade whose roar resonates for miles.

The entire waterfall cascades down three steps. There is a water curtain cave in the middle of the first step. The hall inside the cave is 6 meters high and covers an area of ​​about 50 square meters. The hall is covered with stalactites, which look like pagodas and bamboo shoots, and are exquisitely carved and lifelike in shape.

About 4 kilometers downstream of the waterfall, the water flows into circular colorful pools as the terrain drops. The water rolls down from the circular travertine embankment with fish scales stacked on top of each other, forming layers of circular waterfalls, one pool and one waterfall, which is a spectacular sight.

Climate and best time to travel

Munigou is cool and pleasant in spring and summer, colorful in autumn, and covered in snow in winter.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended playing time: about 1 hour

Tickets

Tickets are included in the ticket price of Munigou Scenic Area

Attraction opening hours

7:00-17:30 (the scenic area is closed from December 1st to March 31st of the following year)

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Most Popular FAQs for Munigou Zhaga Waterfall

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

Munigou Zhaga Waterfall is a natural wonder located in Aba Prefecture, Sichuan. It is famous for its towering cascades that create a stunning display of nature's power. The site is significant for both its natural beauty and its role in Tibetan culture, with nearby villages offering a glimpse into traditional Tibetan life.

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

Munigou Zhaga Waterfall is located in the Munigou Valley, within Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. The most common way to get there is by car or taxi from the nearest city, Chengdu. The road to the waterfall involves a scenic drive through mountainous terrain. Walking is possible for short distances from the parking area to the waterfall.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The waterfall is open year-round and can be visited at any time during the day. The best times to visit are in the spring and summer months when the weather is mild and the water flow is at its fullest. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer the best lighting for photos.

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

The entrance fee to visit the Munigou Zhaga Waterfall is approximately 50-100 CNY, depending on the season and any special events. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance gate, and there is no online ticketing available.

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

It is not necessary to book tickets in advance. However, during peak tourist seasons, it is recommended to arrive early to avoid large crowds and ensure entry.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You will need approximately 2-3 hours to explore the Munigou Zhaga Waterfall and surrounding areas, depending on your pace and if you choose to hike or explore nearby attractions. If you plan to visit nearby villages or other parts of the valley, allocate more time for the visit.

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

• The Zhaga Waterfall itself, which is the main highlight of the attraction.
• The Munigou Valley, which offers hiking trails with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes.
• Nearby Tibetan villages, where you can experience local culture and traditions.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin and can be booked at the entrance or through local tour operators. English-speaking guides are limited, so it's advisable to book in advance if you need one.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The base of the waterfall provides the most iconic view for photographs.
• The upper viewpoints along the hiking trail offer a more panoramic view of the entire waterfall and surrounding landscape.
• Visiting the area at sunset or sunrise provides soft lighting for photos of the waterfall.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start by walking towards the waterfall and spend time taking photos and enjoying the view from the base.
• If you’re up for it, hike the trail to the upper viewpoints for a wider view of the valley and waterfall.
• After exploring the waterfall, visit nearby Tibetan villages to experience the local culture and traditions.

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

Night visits are not common at Munigou Zhaga Waterfall, as it is mainly a daytime destination. However, special tours may be available during festivals or peak seasons, which may include cultural performances or guided tours in the surrounding area.

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

The waterfall can get crowded during peak tourist seasons, especially in the summer. The least crowded times to visit are early in the morning on weekdays, outside of the summer months and national holidays.

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

• Public restrooms are available near the entrance and along the trail.
• There are a few small shops and food stalls where you can purchase snacks, water, and souvenirs.
• Rest areas are limited, so it’s advisable to bring your own water and snacks if you plan to hike the trails.

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

The waterfall and the surrounding area are not fully accessible for disabled visitors due to uneven terrain and limited infrastructure. The walk to the waterfall involves some uphill areas, which may be difficult for elderly or very young children. However, the main area near the entrance is more accessible.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is widely accepted for ticket purchases and small purchases at shops. Mobile payment options such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are also commonly used in the area, but credit cards may not be accepted.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• There are several local restaurants offering Tibetan and Sichuan cuisine, with dishes like yak meat, grilled meats, and Tibetan noodles.
• Some small cafes offer snacks, tea, and coffee near the entrance and surrounding areas.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available, but they may be limited to simple vegetable dishes and rice. Halal food options are rare in the area, as the cuisine is primarily Tibetan and Sichuan-based.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are several guesthouses and hotels in nearby towns like Rilong, offering basic to mid-range accommodations.
• For more upscale options, you may need to stay in the larger town of Chengdu, which is about 2-3 hours away by car.

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

• The nearby Rilong Village offers scenic views and traditional Tibetan culture.
• Explore the Siguniang Mountain, which is also a popular destination for hiking and outdoor activities.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops near the waterfall where you can buy traditional Tibetan handicrafts, woolen goods, and local jewelry. Typical souvenirs include Tibetan prayer beads, embroidered textiles, and yak wool items.

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

• Taxis or private cars are the best way to continue your trip from Munigou Zhaga Waterfall to nearby attractions or towns.
• For longer trips, buses and trains from Chengdu can be accessed, but the journey may require a transfer at a nearby station.