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Written by Zao 2025-06-17 15:16:16
Surviving Western Sichuan: Altitude, Permits & Cultural Pitfalls
Where glacial passes hit 5,000m, nomadic traditions trump modern laws, and landslides block roads without warning – Western Sichuan demands more preparation than typical China travel. This isn’t Tibet-lite; it’s hardcore high-altitude travel.
✦ Why Foreigners Get Stuck
Undeclared PSB checkpoints blocking unregistered travelers
Altitude sickness misdiagnosed as food poisoning
No English SOS support in remote counties
Altitude Warfare
Acclimatization Route: Chengdu (500m) → Day 1: Kangding (2,560m) → Day 2: Tagong (3,750m)
Medication Kit:
Acetazolamide (Diamox)
Nifedipine (for HAPE)
Portable oxygen cans (¥50 in Kangding)
Death Zone Warning:
Avoid sleeping above 4,200m (Yala Basecamp = day trip only!)
On-the-Ground Survival
Transportation Traps
4WD Non-Negotiable: Rent with Tibetan driver (¥800/day) – they bypass illegal checkpoints
Road Closures: Check Sichuan Traffic Radio FM101.7
Fuel Crisis: Fill tank at every station (next pump may be 300km away)
Food & Water Safety
Water: Only drink boiled/SEALED bottles (tap water = parasites)
Meat Danger: Avoid raw yak dishes (echinococcus risk)
Veg Solutions: Learn “Wo chi su” (I eat vegetarian) + pack protein bars
