Qizanggou

Introducing Qizanggou

Qizanggou, located in northwestern Sichuan Province, north of Chuanzhusi Town, is adjacent to Huanglong Airport. It lies in the mountains behind the renowned Huanglong and Jiuzhaigou scenic areas. Covering approximately 50 square kilometers, it boasts dense vegetation, towering peaks, and gurgling streams, yet remains largely uninhabited. Qizanggou comprises Kakagou, Awenggou, and Hongxinggou.

The greatest charm of Qizanggou lies in its pristine tranquility. The scenery along the way shows no trace of human development. Walking through the ravine at an altitude of nearly 4,000 meters, breathing the pristine air, you arrive at the vast expanse of Changhai Lake. The rippling emerald waters of the lake are particularly spectacular under the azure sky.

The sense of accomplishment of crossing the pass, accompanied by the snow-capped mountains in the distance, is an unprecedented shock. Caohai is a typical plateau wetland. Although it is not as large as the Caohai in Ruoergai, its purity and pristine nature will make you involuntarily feel moved.

Climate and best time to travel

The most beautiful time for Qizanggou is from June to October. In June, the alpine azaleas are in full bloom, resplendent as clouds. In October, the mountains are covered in golden light, dazzling the eyes.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Qizanggou is a paradise for outdoor hiking enthusiasts. It takes about 4 days to walk normally.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Qizanggou

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

Qizanggou is a culturally rich area, with deep roots in Tibetan Buddhism. It is home to several monasteries and sacred mountains. The region is important for its spiritual significance and connection to Tibetan customs and traditions.

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

Qizanggou is located in the Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Sichuan. It is accessible by car or taxi from nearby towns like Maerkang, with no direct metro or bus routes available. Traveling by private vehicle or tour group is recommended.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The area is open year-round, though the best time to visit is from May to October, when the weather is mild, and the scenery is at its best. Winters can be cold and harsh, making it less accessible.

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

There is typically no entrance fee for Qizanggou itself. However, certain monasteries or trekking routes may have a small fee. Tickets can be bought on-site at these specific locations, and there is no online booking option.

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

Booking in advance is not necessary unless you are planning to visit during the peak tourist seasons (summer or holidays). For specific tours or accommodations, it is advisable to book 1-2 weeks in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring Qizanggou and its surroundings typically requires 1-2 days. If you plan to trek or visit multiple monasteries, an extended stay of 2-3 days may be ideal.

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

The must-see highlights include the local monasteries, such as the Qizanggou Monastery, and the surrounding natural landscapes, including sacred mountains, rivers, and Tibetan villages. The views of the area are particularly scenic for trekking and photography.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin and Tibetan, but English-speaking guides are rare. It is recommended to arrange for a guide in advance if you prefer one in English. Audio guides may not be widely available.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots include the viewpoints around the monasteries, where you can capture the stunning mountain backdrops. The surrounding valleys, rivers, and Tibetan villages offer excellent scenic views, especially at sunrise and sunset.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with a visit to Qizanggou Monastery to understand the local Tibetan culture. Then, explore the surrounding hiking trails to take in the natural beauty of the region, including sacred mountains and villages. End the day with sunset views from a higher viewpoint.

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

There are no night visits, light shows, or special tours available in Qizanggou. The attraction is more focused on daytime activities such as hiking, photography, and cultural exploration.

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

Qizanggou is not usually crowded, but it can get busy during the summer months and public holidays. The least crowded times to visit are during the shoulder seasons, such as April-May and September-October, especially on weekdays.

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

Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available in and around the monastery areas. There are local food vendors selling traditional Tibetan dishes and bottled water, but it is recommended to bring your own supplies for longer hikes.

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

Qizanggou is a rural area with rough terrain, making it less accessible for elderly or disabled visitors. The village itself is easier to navigate, but hiking trails may be challenging for young children or those with mobility issues.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly used in Qizanggou, although mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are becoming more accepted in the region. International credit cards may not be widely accepted.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Local Tibetan eateries are available, serving traditional dishes like yak meat, momos (dumplings), and butter tea. There are no large restaurants or cafes, so options are basic.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available, especially in Tibetan cuisine. Vegan and halal food options may be limited, so it’s best to check with local eateries in advance if you have specific dietary needs.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Basic guesthouses and inns are available in Qizanggou. For more comfortable accommodations, you can stay in Maerkang, about 1.5 to 2 hours away by car, which offers more variety in terms of hotels.

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

Nearby attractions include the scenic areas around Maerkang, including other Tibetan monasteries and natural landscapes like the Ruoergai Grassland and the scenic hills near the Tibetan Plateau.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are local souvenir shops selling Tibetan handicrafts such as prayer beads, thangkas (Tibetan paintings), yak wool products, and traditional clothing. These make great cultural souvenirs from the area.

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

Private vehicles, taxis, or buses are the best options for continuing the trip after visiting Qizanggou. If you're traveling to other nearby attractions like Maerkang, it's recommended to hire a local taxi or join a tour group.