First-time sisters traveling to Western Sichuan, save this nanny-level guide!

Here comes the 3-day 2-night self-driving loop guide for Western Sichuan 🚗! This route is absolutely stunning, from snow-capped mountains to alpine lakes, every frame is heavenly scenery 🏔️

🚗 Transportation Tips
1️⃣ Chengdu-Luding is all highway, while Luding to Siguniangshan involves mountain roads - recommend SUVs
2️⃣ Balang Mountain Tunnel often has traffic jams - pack enough snacks and water
3️⃣ Few gas stations in high-altitude areas - fill up whenever you see PetroChina

🏔️ Itinerary Route
DAY1:
📍 Hailuogou Glacier Forest Park (¥90 ticket)
3-hour drive from Chengdu to Luding. The red stone beach and glacier are spectacular. Take the sightseeing bus (¥70 round trip) to Camp 3 then hike. Don't miss the cured meat and wild mushroom hotpot in Moxi Ancient Town!

DAY2:
📍 Siguniangshan Shuangqiao Valley (¥80 ticket + ¥70 sightseeing bus)
Depart at 7am, beware of altitude sickness when crossing Balang Mountain (5,040m). The snow mountain reflections here are breathtaking - perfect for road photos at Renshenguoping 📸 Stay overnight in Xiaojin County - must try Tibetan hotpot!

DAY3:
📍 Changping Valley hiking (¥70 ticket)
Hike to Muziwozi and return (7 hours total) - the primeval forest is incredibly healing 🍃 Have yak beef noodles at the entrance before returning to Chengdu in the afternoon.

🏠 Accommodation Recommendations
✔️ Moxi Town: Ji·Ye Hot Spring Homestay (soak in hot springs with mountain views)
✔️ Xiaojin County: Siguniangshan Holy Image Hotel (authentic Tibetan style)

🥘 Must-try Foods
【Luding】Dengshi Guiyinshi (their signature tofu pudding is amazing)
【Xiaojin】Butter tea with tsampa at Tibetan restaurants
【On the road】Carry chocolate and glucose for altitude sickness

⚠️ Practical Tips
1️⃣ October for colorful forests, May for azaleas, be cautious during July-August rainy season
2️⃣ Book all attractions in advance on "Chuanyou" platform (or you might make a wasted trip)
3️⃣ Huge temperature differences - down jackets and sunscreen are essential
4️⃣ Mobile payments work everywhere, but keep small change for restrooms
5️⃣ Don't shower on the first day! It might trigger altitude sickness~