Live Your Best Lives
Visitors can explore the scenic mountain trails, enjoy hiking, or take in the breathtaking views of the Tibetan Plateau. The area is also perfect for birdwatching, camping, and photography.
The Min Mountains are a fold mountain range extending from the southwest of Gansu Province in China to the north of Sichuan Province. It runs roughly from north to south and is about 500 kilometers long. The main peak, Xuebaoding, is located in Songpan County, Sichuan Province. The Min Mountains are connected to Xiqing Mountain in the northwest and Qionglai Mountain in the south. It includes Dieshan in southern Gansu and Motianling on the border between Gansu and Sichuan. It is mainly composed of limestone.
Minshan, Dieshan and Motianling are the concentrated distribution areas of giant pandas, with the highest density in Motianling.
The Min Mountains are picturesque and have a profound cultural heritage. They are home to the Jiuzhaigou Valley, Huanglong Valley, and the giant bear habitat, a World Natural Heritage Site; the Qingcheng Mountain-Dujiangyan Irrigation System, a World Cultural Heritage Site; and the Emei Mountain-Leshan Giant Buddha, a World Natural and Cultural Heritage Site. It is the "Kunlun Mountain of China," the home of God and the gods in ancient Chinese mythology and legends, and the birthplace of immortal culture and Taoism. It is also the hometown of Leizu, the ancestor of Chinese humanity, the goddess of sericulture and tourism, and Dayu, the flood control hero, and the birthplace of ancient Shu civilization.
When the Central Red Army crossed the Min Mountains during the Long March, Mao Zedong looked around from the top of the mountain. For the first time, he saw a world of snow-capped peaks like the sea and felt a world of myths and legends.
Plateau mountain climate;
October is the best time to go, as it won’t be too cold.
Jiuzhaigou, Huanglong, the giant bear habitat, the world cultural heritage Qingcheng Mountain - Dujiangyan, the world natural and cultural dual heritage Mount Emei - Leshan Giant Buddha World Heritage are all worth visiting.
It is recommended to visit for 3 to 4 days
All day
Minshan is a key mountain range in Sichuan, known for its rich biodiversity and cultural significance to the Tibetan Qiang people. The area is a natural reserve and offers a glimpse into the pristine beauty of the Tibetan Plateau.
Minshan is located in Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Sichuan. It can be accessed by taxi or private car from Chengdu, with a journey time of approximately 4 to 5 hours. Bus options are also available, but a private vehicle is recommended for convenience.
The area is open year-round, though the best times to visit are in spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and the natural beauty is at its peak.
The entrance fee is approximately ¥80. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or through local online platforms, especially during high tourist seasons.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance, but booking a few days before your trip is recommended during peak seasons to avoid long lines and guarantee entry.
It typically takes 3-4 hours to explore the main trails and enjoy the viewpoints. For more immersive hiking or camping, plan for a full day or two.
Highlights include the stunning mountain vistas, unique flora and fauna, and the tranquil alpine lakes. The highest viewpoints offer breathtaking panoramic views of the Tibetan Plateau.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides may be provided, but generally, they are only in Chinese. English-speaking guides can be arranged upon request for larger groups.
The best viewpoints are along the higher trails where visitors can capture panoramic shots of the surrounding valleys and snow-capped peaks. The alpine lakes also offer excellent photo opportunities.
The recommended route includes a loop that takes visitors through the main scenic spots, with stops at the viewpoints and lakes. It’s best to follow the marked trails and take time at each scenic location to fully appreciate the surroundings.
Night visits and light shows are not available. The best experience is during daylight hours, when visitors can fully enjoy the natural beauty of Minshan.
The area is not overly crowded, but it can get busy during public holidays or weekends. The least crowded times are early mornings and weekdays, especially in the off-peak seasons.
Basic facilities, including rest areas, toilets, and water stations, are available at the entrance and along the main trails. There are no large food or shopping centers, so it's best to bring your own supplies.
While the main access points are generally easy to reach, some of the trails can be steep or challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. It’s recommended to consult with local guides to find suitable routes for those with mobility challenges.
Cash is accepted, and mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are widely used. Credit cards are not commonly accepted in the area.
There are local restaurants nearby offering Tibetan and Sichuan cuisine. In Aba and nearby towns, you will find more dining options, including local specialties like yak meat and momo (Tibetan dumplings).
Vegetarian options are available, particularly in local Tibetan eateries. Vegan and halal options are more limited, but some restaurants may accommodate specific dietary needs if requested in advance.
Basic accommodations are available near the park entrance or in nearby towns. For more comfort, visitors can find mid-range hotels in Aba. It’s advisable to book in advance during peak seasons.
Nearby attractions include the Aba Tibetan Culture Museum and the scenic sites of the Tibetan Plateau. These can easily be combined with a visit to Minshan for a more immersive experience of the local culture and nature.
There are small souvenir shops near the entrance where visitors can purchase Tibetan handicrafts, including prayer beads, traditional clothing, and local artwork.
After visiting Minshan, taxis or private cars are the best options for continuing to other destinations. Public transport may be less frequent in remote areas, so having a private vehicle or arranging transport in advance is recommended.
