Hiking Guide to Gulu Village: A Magical Journey to the Cliffside Secret Realm

📍 Location
Nestled in the heart of the Dadu River National Geopark in Sichuan, Gulu Village is a secluded Yi ethnic settlement perched on a cliff at an altitude of approximately 1,400 meters. It is often referred to as the "Village in the Clouds."

🚗 Transportation Guide

Self-Driving Navigation
Set your destination to "Gulu Village Visitor Center." The drive from Chengdu takes about 3-4 hours.
Important Tip: There are no gas stations along the way, so make sure to fill up your tank before departure! Mountain roads are winding, so it’s recommended to travel with experienced drivers.
Cost Reference
Self-driving or car rental costs approximately 200 RMB per person. Currently, there is no entrance fee for the village.

🎒 Essential Gear for the Trip

Anti-slip Hiking Shoes: Essential for navigating rugged, rocky paths and steep slopes safely.
Gloves: Protect your hands when climbing iron chain sections (e.g., ladders and ancient paths).
Trekking Poles: Save energy and stabilize your balance; available for rent at the base.
Thermal Flask: Hot water is available at the mountaintop shop to keep you warm.
Sun Hat + Sunscreen: Some sections lack shade, and the high-altitude UV rays are intense.

🚶♂️ Detailed Hiking Route

The hike takes approximately 5-6 hours and is divided into four main segments:

Starting Point → Yangtianwo (First Scenic Spot)
Begin at the parking lot and ascend along the ancient path for 30 minutes to reach the first viewing platform, where you can overlook the morning mist in the Dadu River Gorge.
Tongzil Forest → Ancient Horse Path
Pass through Tibetan-style villages and enter the cliffside plank road (the most thrilling section). Walk close to the rock face with a deep valley below, holding onto iron chains for safety.
Banjou Cliff Cableway Station
Take a cable car across the gorge (optional, extra fee). This is an excellent spot for capturing the sea of clouds! On sunny afternoons, light piercing through the clouds creates a "Jesus Light" effect.
Gulu Village Ladder → Mountain Top Viewing Platform
Climb a nearly 70° steep ladder to reach the village, then walk 200 meters east to the cypress viewing platform for a breathtaking view of the golden cliffs at sunset.

📸 Photography Tips and Best Spots

Morning Mist Wonderland: 7:00 AM - 9:00 AM. The village emerges amidst the sea of clouds. Capture the "floating village" along the Tongzil Forest to Cableway Station route.
Golden Mountain Sunset: 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM. Photograph the golden cliffs and shimmering Dadu River from the cypress viewing platform.

🍲 Local Food Recommendations

Stone-Ground Tofu: Rich soybean flavor paired with spicy dipping sauce, offering a creamy and slightly sweet taste.
Traditional Smoked Bacon: Firewood-smoked with a balanced fat-to-lean ratio, a must-try side dish.
Potato Burger: Charcoal-grilled potatoes split open and stuffed with secret spices, delivering a crispy, soft, and flavorful experience.

⚠️ Safety and Experience Tips

Physical Stamina: Beginners are advised to take breaks in segments, while advanced hikers can challenge themselves to reach the summit and explore deeper into the forest.
Cliffside Sections: The plank road is only wide enough for one person. Avoid hiking on rainy days and always walk slowly with your back against the rock face.
Village Culture: Respect Yi ethnic customs and avoid photographing villagers or indoor scenes without permission.

This life path carved into the cliffs offers breathtaking scenery in exchange for its perilous journey. It also embodies the warmth and simplicity of "heaven on earth." Embark on this adventure and feel the temperature of the vertical world!