8.19 Current Situation in Western Sichuan, Speaking Some Blunt Truths That Might Offend

Transportation:
【Self-Driving】For Experienced Drivers! 🏔️
- Western Sichuan mountain roads with eighteen sharp turns + high altitude
- Not recommended for beginners or those with no mountain driving experience ⚠️
It’s best to have at least two experienced drivers take turns!

【Charter Car】A Blessing for the Lazy ✨
- Best for groups of 3-4 people
- Local guides are always reliable
- Saves time and effort, plus includes hidden scenic spots

【Group Tours】First Choice for Beginners 👶
=true beginner-friendly
=true all meals and accommodation included
=true no worries about altitude sickness
Make sure to choose a qualified local travel agency!

💡Pitfall Avoidance Tips (Hard-Earned Experience):
1️⃣ Altitude Sickness Warning‼️
✖️ Direct flights to Daocheng/Kangding (sudden altitude sickness is scary)
✔️ Gradual acclimatization in Chengdu (recommended to stay 2 nights before departure)

2️⃣ Weather Mysteries ☔️
-"Four seasons in one day" is not a myth
-Bring an umbrella + rain jacket
-Check the weather forecast carefully before setting out

3️⃣ Food Guide 🍚
✓ Sichuan restaurants are everywhere
✗ Ask prices before ordering fish/wild game
✓ Bring your own snacks for peace of mind

4️⃣ Dressing Rules 👗
=Thin layers inside, thick layers outside
=Skirt + jacket = perfect combo
=Bright colors make better photos!

5️⃣ Toilet Warning 🚽
- Scenic spots > restaurants > hotels
- Dry toilets are very hardcore experiences
- Always carry tissues and wet wipes

6️⃣ Slim Down Your Makeup Bag 💄
✖️ Heavy makeup → risk of smudging
✔️ Light makeup + lipstick = perfect match
⚠️ Avoid pump bottles for skincare products!

7️⃣ Cash is a Must 💰
- 500 RMB for safety
- Temples and small stalls only accept cash
- Signal can be spotty

8️⃣ Cultural Etiquette 🙏
Spin prayer wheels clockwise
Dress appropriately in temples
Ask before taking photos

9️⃣ Motion Sickness Medicine is Essential 💊
Warning for winding mountain roads
Even experienced drivers can get sick
Take it half an hour in advance

🔟 Avoid Group Tour Scams 👀
Check business licenses
Choose local qualified agencies
Sign formal contracts

🎒Travel Checklist:
【Three Essential Documents】
ID card + student ID + cash

【Four Sunscreen Essentials】
SPF50+ cream
Sunglasses
Fisherman’s hat
Sun/rain umbrella

【Medicine Kit】
Cold medicine
Stomach medicine
Glucose
Rhodiola (start taking 7 days in advance)

【Photography Gear】
Two power banks
Mirrorless camera/phone
Foldable reflector
Stabilizer

🗺️5-Day Classic Route:
D1: Chengdu → Kangding (lunch) → 434 Airport Road (popular road) → Honghaizi → Moshigongyuan → Yuzixi (sunset) → Xinduqiao (overnight)
🌟Highlight: Experience four seasons in one day

D2: Xinduqiao → Tianlu 18 Bends (drone spot) → Kazila Mountain (4718m) → Litang (Ding Zhen’s hometown) → Tuer Mountain → Haizi Mountain → Riwa (overnight)
📸Check-in: The world’s highest city, Litang

D3: Riwa → Yading long trail (Luorong Pasture + Milk Sea) → Daocheng (overnight)
🏔️Main event: 10km hiking challenge

D4: Daocheng → Litang → Yajiang → Tagong Grassland → Danba (overnight)
🐎Experience: Grassland horseback riding + Tibetan costume photos

D5: Danba → Siguniang Mountain (Shuangqiaogou) → Maobiniang (panorama) → Chengdu
🌸Finale: The Eastern Alps

💌Little Tips:
1. On Day 3, hike Yading according to your ability
2. Don’t miss the photography paradise of Xinduqiao
3. Try Tibetan food in Litang (butter tea is amazing)