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Written by Zao 2025-06-12 11:29:01
Yading in 5 Days: Conquer Sichuan’s Sacred Peaks
Where prayer flags pierce 6,000m Himalayan giants, glacial lakes glow electric blue, and Tibetan pilgrims chant mantras on trails – Daocheng Yading is China’s answer to Patagonia. This 5-day itinerary delivers the ultimate high-altitude pilgrimage without Tibet permits.
✦ Why Foreigners Love This Route
UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with zero permit hassles
Trails for all levels – gentle walks to expert treks
Direct flights from Chengdu (1.5hrs vs 2-day drive)
Day 1
Chengdu → Daocheng
Fly to Daocheng Yading Airport (4,411m – world’s highest!)
Acclimatize at Sangdui Homestay (3,750m)
Critical: Light activity only – hydrate & rest
Day 2
Daocheng → Riwa → Yading Village
Drive through Red Grassland (stop for yak photos)
Visit Bonbo Monastery (pre-Buddhist Tibetan site)
Sleep in Yading Village (3,900m) – prepare oxygen
Day 3
Yading Nature Reserve Trek
⛰️ Short Route: Chonggu Monastery → Pearl Lake (2hrs, 4,100m)
⛰️ Classic Route: Luorong Pasture → Milk Lake (5hrs, 4,600m)
Pro Tip: Rent trekking poles (¥20) & oxygen tank (¥50)
Day 4
Chenrezig Peak Kora
Sacred Circuit: Circumambulate the 6,032m peak (6-8hrs)
Photography Gold: Reflection shots at Wuse Hai (Five-Color Lake)
Reward: Hotpot dinner in Riwa Town
Day 5
Daocheng → Chengdu
Sunrise at Yangmaiyong (wisdom Buddha peak view)
Fly back to Chengdu or extend to Litang (Tibetan horse culture)
🙏 Tibetan Culture Essentials
Mani Stone Stacks: Walk clockwise, never touch carved prayers
Temple Etiquette: Remove hats, no photos of altars
Homestay Dos: Accept butter tea with both hands; gift fruit to hosts
