4-Day Tour of Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture and Other Places: Explore Western Sichuan
by Ruby567~Ward
Feb 7, 2025
Transportation Options
- Self-drive: Depart from Chengdu, pass through Dujiangyan, Yingxiu, and Wolong, and finally arrive at Siguniangshan Town. The total distance is about 200 km, taking 4-5 hours. The Balang Mountain section has many curves, and snow chains are required in winter.
- Bus: Take a bus from Chengdu Chadianzi Bus Station to Siguniangshan Town. The journey takes 4-6 hours, with fares ranging from 90-135 CNY.
- Chartered/Shared Car: Shared car costs about 150-200 CNY per person, while chartered car prices vary by vehicle type, suitable for group travel.
Scenic Area Introduction
- Shuangqiao Valley: The most developed area. Ticket: 80 CNY + sightseeing bus 70 CNY. The entire route can be covered by sightseeing bus, ideal for families or time-limited visitors. Must-visit spots include Redwood Forest, Budala Peak, Sigunuo Lake, and Longzhu Lake.
- Changping Valley: Ticket: 70 CNY + sightseeing bus 20 CNY. A paradise for hiking enthusiasts, offering distant views of Yaomei Peak. Some sections require horseback riding. Recommended routes include Lama Temple, Dead Tree Beach, and Muzuozi.
- Haizi Valley: Ticket: 60 CNY, no sightseeing bus available. Undeveloped with pristine alpine lakes, suitable for camping and in-depth hiking. Routes like Guozhuangping → Chaoshanping → Big Lake are popular. You can also climb the Big Peak/Second Peak, but a professional guide is required.
Accommodation Options
- Siguniangshan Town: Offers various hotels and homestays, such as Siguniangshan Stargazing · Vacilando Resort and Siguniangshan Yueshan Four Seasons Hidden Stay, with convenient dining and shopping options.
- Inside the Scenic Area: Muzuozi Campground in Changping Valley is available for camping. Bring your own equipment or arrange with a guide.
Food Recommendations
- Tibetan Hot Pot: Features yak meat and wild mushrooms in the broth, with tender and fresh meat.
- Butter Tea + Highland Barley Cake: A common Tibetan breakfast. Butter tea helps with altitude sickness, and the barley cake is crispy and delicious.
- Roasted Whole Lamb/Yak Meat Skewers: Local specialty barbecue with a delicious taste.
Itinerary Planning
- Day 1: Chengdu → Siguniangshan Town → Shuangqiao Valley. Arrive in Siguniangshan Town in the morning, visit Shuangqiao Valley after lunch. Take the sightseeing bus to the mountaintop and explore from Redwood Forest, visiting Budala Peak, Sigunuo Lake, Nianyu Dam, and Renshenguo Meadow.
- Day 2: In-depth tour of Changping Valley. Take the sightseeing bus to Lama Temple, then hike or ride a horse to Muzuozi to enjoy the views of Yaomei Peak. Return to town in the afternoon for Tibetan hot pot and a bonfire party.
- Day 3: Haizi Valley → Return. Head to Haizi Valley in the morning, optionally watch the sunrise at Guozhuangping, hike to Big Lake and Flower Lake, or climb the Big Peak/Second Peak. Before returning in the afternoon, visit the observation deck for a panoramic view of Mount Siguniang.
Important Notes
- Altitude Sickness Prevention: Take Rhodiola supplements a week in advance, carry oxygen bottles, avoid strenuous activities upon arrival, and refrain from washing hair or bathing on the first day.
- Unpredictable Weather: Large temperature differences between day and night. Bring down jackets and rain gear in summer, and snow chains in winter.
- Hiking Safety: Professional guides are required for Haizi Valley hikes. Hike within your limits in Changping Valley and carry out all trash.
- Sun Protection: Strong UV rays require sunscreen, sunglasses, and sun hats.
Post by EthanHenderson | Jun 18, 2025























