🗻 Surviving Summer in the Sky: My Daocheng Yading Travel Tips! 🗻

Yes, it’s summer—but don’t let the blue skies fool you. Yading may be stunning, but it’s also over 4,000m above sea level 😅 Here’s everything I wish I knew before trekking to Milk Lake, Five-Color Lake, and beyond:

🌬️ 1. Acclimatisation is Key
💡 Skip flying into Daocheng Yading Airport! The elevation shock is real and can ruin your trip. I chose to drive in slowly from Litang, which gave my body time to adjust. Any town above 3,500m like Riwa (日瓦) makes a great base to rest 1–2 days before trekking.

🧃 2. Pack Oxygen + Layers
Even in July, it was freezing at dawn and scorching by noon. Bring medical-grade oxygen, layered clothing, and a sun hat. Trust me—cold winds at high altitudes can give you a serious headache!

🏔️ 3. Choose Treks That Match Your Fitness
The classic Milk Lake (牛奶海) + Five-Color Lake loop is gorgeous but tough—took me 4–6 hours. If you’re short on time or energy, opt for the easier Gongga Lake (贡嘎措) route from Luorong Pasture. Still breathtaking and less physically demanding!

🌦️ 4. Weather Is Moody
Fog can roll in within seconds and there can be sudden rain. Always bring rain gear, raincoats and shoe cover/wear anti-slip shoes.

🧴 5. Sun Protection = Non-Negotiable
High UV levels at high altitude! Pack SPF50+, SPF lip balm, and sunglasses. You’ll thank yourself when you don’t come home with a peeling nose.

🚻 6. Toilets & Water
Toilets are basic and far between—carry tissues and wipes. Also, refill your bottle at hotel or visitor centres—some trekking spots don’t sell bottled water.

✨ Bonus Tip:
Mobile signal is patchy. Download offline maps and carry cash in case QR codes don’t scan.

📍 Even in summer, there was snow at the meadows near the park entrance—so dress warm and pace yourself. It’s a journey worth taking, just take it slow 💙

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Post by NatDiscoversAsia | Jul 13, 2025