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Written by Zao 2025-06-10 14:32:01
Western Sichuan in 7 Days: High-Altitude Temples & Turquoise Lakes
Journey through "China’s Tibet" without permits – where prayer flags whip over 4,000m passes, yak herders greet you with chang (barley wine), and Himalayan vistas unfold along death-defying roads. This is Western Sichuan (川西): raw, spiritual, and achingly beautiful.
✨ Why This Itinerary Works for Foreigners:
Altitude Gradual Ascent (Chengdu 500m → Litang 4,014m → avoids AMS)
Mix Culture/Hiking: Monasteries + UNESCO Yading trails
Logistics Solved: Bus/private car options + homestay picks
Day-by-Day Breakdown (With Altitude Tips)
🗺️ Route Map: Chengdu → Kangding → Tagong → Litang → Daocheng Yading → Xinduqiao → Chengdu
Key Experiences & How-To
🏔️ Yading Hiking Strategy
Short Route: Chonggu Monastery → Pearl Lake (2hrs, easy)
Medium Route: Luorong Pasture → Milk Lake (5hrs, 4,200m)
Sacred Circuit: Chenrezig Peak kora (full day, experts only)
Avoid Crowds: Enter at 7AM when gates open
🏯 Tibetan Culture Immersion
Tagong Monastery: Attend morning prayers (6AM)
Litang Horse Festival: July 15-25 (book 6mo ahead!)
Homestay Etiquette: Accept butter tea with both hands; don’t touch altar objects
🚗 Transport Tips for Foreigners
Option 1: Private car + English driver (¥1,200-1,800/day via Windhorse Tour)
Option 2: Public buses (Chengdu Xinnanmen Station → Kangding/Litang)
Option 3: Fly Chengdu → Daocheng Yading Airport (skip 2-day drive)
