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Visitors can enjoy a scenic drive or trek along the historic Tea-Horse Ancient Road, which was once a vital trading route connecting Tibet and Sichuan. Along the way, explore ancient villages, visit local tea plantations, and take in stunning mountain views. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the nearby Erlangshan Mountain for more breathtaking vistas and cultural experiences.
The Erlangshan Ancient Tea-Horse Road ruins, located in Tianquan County, have a long history with Khampa culture. The "Ancient Tea-Horse Road" connected Sichuan, Yunnan, and Tibet, extending into Bhutan, Sikkim, Nepal, and India, before reaching West Asia and the Red Sea coast of West Africa.
The Ancient Tea-Horse Road, which predates the Silk Road by about 200 years, originated from the ancient tea-horse trade in the southwestern frontier. It is a tourist route with some of the most spectacular natural scenery and mysterious culture in the world.
Spring and autumn are the best time to visit, as the climate is cool and suitable
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The Erlangshan Tea-Horse Ancient Road, dating back to the Tang Dynasty, was a key route for trading tea, horses, and other goods between Sichuan and Tibet. It played a major role in the development of the region's economy and culture. The road is now an important cultural and historical site, attracting tourists interested in ancient trade routes and Tibetan culture.
The Erlangshan Tea-Horse Ancient Road is located in Ya'an, Sichuan. It can be accessed by taxi or private car from Ya'an, which is about a 2-hour drive from Chengdu. Public transportation may be limited, so it's best to arrange for a car or a guided tour to reach the site.
The site is open year-round, but the best times to visit are during spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the surrounding nature is at its most vibrant. Avoid the summer months due to heavy rainfall that may affect travel along the road.
The entrance fee for the Erlangshan Tea-Horse Ancient Road is typically ¥30-50. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or via local tour agencies. Online booking is not commonly available, but it is possible to book through tour providers in advance for group tours.
Booking in advance is not strictly necessary, but if you are visiting with a large group or during peak seasons, it is recommended to book at least a few days ahead through a local tour agency to ensure availability.
To fully explore the Erlangshan Tea-Horse Ancient Road, including stops at scenic viewpoints, tea plantations, and villages, allocate about 4-6 hours. For a more relaxed visit with plenty of time for photography and cultural experiences, a full day is ideal.
The must-see highlights along the Tea-Horse Road include the ancient stone paths, the picturesque villages, tea plantations, and the stunning views from Erlangshan Mountain. The road itself, with its historical significance, is also a major attraction.
Guided tours are available, and they typically offer information about the history of the road and the surrounding areas. Tours are usually conducted in Mandarin, but it may be possible to arrange for an English-speaking guide if booked in advance.
The best photography spots include the high vantage points along Erlangshan Mountain, the winding paths of the ancient road, and the lush green tea plantations. Early morning or late afternoon light offers the best conditions for photography.
The recommended itinerary involves starting at the base of Erlangshan Mountain and gradually making your way along the ancient road. Stop at the scenic viewpoints, visit local villages, and take time to explore the tea plantations. End your visit at one of the higher mountain points for panoramic views of the area.
Night visits and light shows are not available along the Tea-Horse Road. However, special cultural tours may be offered during festivals or peak tourism seasons. It's best to check with local tour operators for any special events or tours.
The site can get crowded during weekends and Chinese public holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit during the weekdays, especially in the off-peak seasons like early spring or late autumn.
Basic facilities are available along the route, including public toilets and small rest areas. There are several small shops selling snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. For a more extensive selection of food, it’s recommended to visit Ya'an before heading out on the road.
The Erlangshan Tea-Horse Ancient Road is not particularly accessible for elderly or disabled visitors due to the rough terrain and uneven stone paths. It is more suitable for active visitors who are comfortable with walking or hiking. Children may enjoy the visit, but supervision is necessary due to the terrain.
Cash is widely accepted, especially in smaller shops and local establishments. Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are also commonly accepted in many places along the road, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash as a backup.
There are small local restaurants and tea houses along the road offering traditional Sichuan cuisine and tea. For more dining options, you may need to head back to Ya'an, where a broader selection of restaurants is available.
Vegetarian options are available at some local eateries, especially in tea houses, offering dishes like vegetable stir-fries and noodle soups. Vegan and halal options may be more limited, but it’s possible to find some dishes by asking in advance at the restaurants.
There are a few guesthouses and hotels in Ya'an, which is the closest city to the Tea-Horse Road. Some smaller accommodations are also available in villages along the route for a more immersive experience.
Nearby attractions include the Bifengxia Panda Base, where you can see giant pandas in a natural habitat, and the Yuchi River Valley, which offers scenic hikes and traditional villages. These can be combined with a visit to the Tea-Horse Road for a full day trip.
Yes, there are small souvenir shops along the Tea-Horse Road selling local handicrafts, tea, and traditional Tibetan and Sichuanese goods. Typical souvenirs include handwoven textiles, tea products, and carved wooden items.
After visiting the Tea-Horse Road, taxis or private cars are the best way to continue your trip, especially if heading to nearby attractions like the Bifengxia Panda Base or Yuchi River Valley. Public transportation options may be limited in these remote areas.
