Atuleer Village

Introducing Atuleer Village

Atule'er Village, a natural village in Zhiermo Township, Zhaojue County, Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, is a veritable "cliff village." In the past, Atule'er Village was isolated from the outside world, its unique location free from banditry and war. The land was fertile, and the villagers were self-sufficient, leading a much more comfortable and prosperous life than in other turbulent areas. But now, with accessible roads, streamlined logistics, and flourishing commerce, Atule'er Village has fallen behind.

This village is located on a sloping terrace on the shoulder of the Meigu River Grand Canyon, like the middle step of a three-tiered staircase. At an altitude of over 1,400 meters, it's about 800 meters above sea level. Access to the village requires climbing 17 intermittent vine ladders along the cliffs. Two nearly vertical ladders, each about 100 meters long, run near the village. Children here also have to climb these ladders to get to school.

In May 2016, media reports made Lele Village, Atule'er Village, Zhiermo Township, Zhaojue County, Liangshan Prefecture, famous nationwide overnight. This veritable "cliff village" attracted the attention of many people.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Yang Yong, chief scientist of the Hengduan Mountains Research Association, who has conducted research in the local area, said that the Grand Canyon here is a world-class landscape. In addition to the dense valley-within-valley canyon group, the ladder to heaven in the cliff village is a "living fossil" of human survival in harsh environments in modern society and a "living specimen" for people to experience.

You can experience the "ladder to heaven", but you must pay attention to safety

It is recommended to visit for about 1 day

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Atuleer Village

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

Atuleer Village is a picturesque mountain village in Liangshan, Sichuan, home to the Yi ethnic minority. The village is known for its steep, wooden "sky ladder" stairs, which are both a means of daily transportation and a symbol of the village's resilience. It offers a glimpse into the traditional life of the Yi people, who have preserved their customs and culture for centuries.

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

Atuleer Village is located in the Liangshan region of Sichuan Province. The village is remote, so it is best to take a long-distance bus or taxi from Xichang (the nearest city), followed by a short hike to the village. No metro services are available, and walking is the primary way to navigate the steep village paths.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

There are no specific opening hours for the village as it is a living community. The best time to visit is during spring or autumn, when the weather is mild, and the natural beauty is at its peak. Avoid the rainy season (summer) as the terrain can become difficult to navigate.

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

There is no formal entrance fee to Atuleer Village, as it is a rural community. However, there may be small fees for specific activities, such as guided tours or hiking routes. You can pay on-site for these services.

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

No advance booking is necessary for visiting the village. However, for guided tours or activities, it is recommended to book a few days in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Atuleer Village typically takes 2 to 3 hours. This includes hiking to the sky ladder, exploring the village, and interacting with local residents. If you prefer a more relaxed visit, you may want to stay longer to fully appreciate the scenery and culture.

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

The must-see highlights include the famous "sky ladder" stairs, the traditional wooden houses of the Yi people, and the breathtaking views from the top of the village. The terraced fields and riverside areas also provide great photo opportunities and a deeper understanding of local life.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin and can be arranged on-site. Audio guides are generally not available, but local guides are very knowledgeable and provide excellent insights into the culture and history of the village.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are from the top of the sky ladder stairs, where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the village, terraced fields, and surrounding mountains. The village's unique architecture also offers great opportunities for photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the village at the base of the sky ladder. Then, hike up the stairs to enjoy the panoramic views. Afterward, take a walk through the terraced fields and riverside areas to experience the natural beauty and traditional Yi life. End your visit by interacting with the locals and learning about their customs.

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

Night visits or light shows are not available in Atuleer Village. The village is primarily a daytime destination, and visitors should plan to leave by evening.

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

Atuleer Village can get crowded during national holidays and peak tourist seasons (summer and fall). To avoid crowds, visit on weekdays and during the off-season (spring and winter).

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

The village has basic facilities, including toilets and small rest areas. Food and water are available in nearby village shops, but options are limited. It's recommended to bring your own supplies, especially water, for the hike up to the sky ladder.

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

Atuleer Village is not particularly accessible for elderly or disabled visitors due to its steep terrain and the challenge of climbing the sky ladder stairs. It may be difficult for young children to navigate the stairs as well, but it is manageable for those in good physical condition.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is preferred in Atuleer Village, especially for small purchases. Some shops may accept mobile payments like WeChat Pay or Alipay, but it is safer to carry cash for transactions.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no formal restaurants or cafes in Atuleer Village. However, you will find small local food stalls or simple eateries serving traditional Yi food in nearby areas, such as rice and vegetables, along with tea and snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available, primarily consisting of rice, vegetables, and tofu dishes. Halal food options are not typically found in Atuleer Village, as the local cuisine is based on traditional Yi dietary preferences.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Accommodations in Atuleer Village are limited to basic guesthouses. More options are available in Xichang, which is about an hour away by car. You can find hotels ranging from budget to mid-range in Xichang.

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

Nearby attractions include Xichang, known for its scenic lakes and historical sites like the Xichang Ancient City. You can also visit the Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture Museum in Xichang to learn more about the culture of the Yi people.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops in Atuleer Village offering traditional Yi handicrafts, such as embroidered textiles, jewelry, and local pottery. The most popular souvenirs are handwoven scarves and garments.

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

The best way to continue your trip after visiting Atuleer Village is by taxi or private car to nearby destinations. Xichang is well connected by buses and trains, making it a good base for further travel in the region.