Litang Summer Vacation: Unlock Four Tibetan Adventures at 4,014 Meters Above the Clouds

Here are four must-visit travel guides for your Litang summer trip:

Mount Genie Sacred Mountain Exploration

- Attraction: Mount Genie, the main peak of the Shaluli Mountains, stands at 6,174.5 meters and is known as the "First Peak of Southern Kham." Its summit is perpetually snow-capped with hanging glaciers. The Eye of Genie at its eastern foothills is a circular alpine cirque lake resembling the earth's pupil, with crystal-clear blue waters in summer surrounded by wildflowers. The ancient Lenggu Monastery nestled in the mountains adds a serene and solemn atmosphere.
- Transportation: From Litang town, carpool or charter a vehicle for about a 2.5-hour drive.
- Accommodation: Stay in homestays in Xiazetong Village to experience Tibetan lifestyle.
- Food: Bring self-heating meals or enjoy Tibetan delicacies like butter tea and tsampa at local homestays.

Mao'ya Grassland Experience

- Attraction: Mao'ya Grassland is a key part of western Sichuan's alpine grasslands and the largest intermountain grassland in the Shaluli Mountains. In summer, it unfolds like green silk, framed by towering mountains and nourished by snowmelt, with lush pastures and herds of yaks and sheep. The grassland transforms into a sea of colorful wildflowers, resembling a natural oil painting.
- Transportation: Ideal for self-driving or chartered vehicles along National Highway 318 to enjoy the scenery.
- Accommodation: Options include staying in Litang town or experiencing tent camping on the grassland.
- Food: Savor fresh yak meat and yogurt on the grassland.

Letong Ancient Town Cultural Tour

- Attraction: Letong Ancient Town, formed by 13 Tibetan villages and over 4,000 Tibetan houses, was a vital trade hub on the Tea-Horse Road since the Ming Dynasty. Highlights include the 400-year-old Rinkang Ancient House (former residence of Gushri Khan), a wax figure museum of Khampa people, and a Tibetan opera micro-museum.
- Transportation: Located within Litang town, accessible by walking or local transport.
- Accommodation: Various hotels and homestays are available around the ancient town.
- Food: Try specialties like butter tea, barley wine, and Tibetan hotpot.

Litang Horse Racing Festival Celebration

- Attraction: Around August 1st each year, Litang hosts the grand "August 1st" Horse Racing Festival, lasting half a month. Events include endurance races, trotting races, and equestrian competitions. Thousands of Tibetan tents are set up on the grassland, where herdsmen in traditional attire gather for Tibetan opera, folk songs, dances, and more.
- Transportation: After arriving in Litang town, take local transport to the festival venue.
- Accommodation: Book accommodations in Litang town in advance to avoid delays.
- Food: Enjoy various Tibetan snacks like yak jerky and tsampa at the festival.

Post by CYRUS CRAWFORD | Jul 11, 2025