2025 Barkam Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in June)

...it's just too beautiful!!! When the boundless red comes into view, your heart will be deeply touched. This is Seda, a place full of mystery and the power of faith. Before you pack your bags and embark on this spiritual journey, take a look at this carefully compiled guide to help you have a perfect trip to Seda. Seda Larung Gar Buddhist Academy, the largest Tibetan Buddhist academy in the world Seda Larung Gar Buddhist Academy, a pure land of Buddha, is located in Luoruo Town, Seda County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province. Countless crimson-red monk houses densely cover the hillside, creating a magnificent and spectacular scene. Reservation method Make sure to book 48 hours in advance on the "Larunggou Jingou" mini program. There are only two booking slots per day, at 10:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Make sure to book on time to avoid missing out. The origin of the red houses Initially, newly arrived practitioners, in order to solve the accommodation problem, used local materials and built simple wooden sheds on the hillside. To give these dwellings sacred meaning, they painted them all red. Over time, red became the main color of this land, and the red houses became a unique symbol of Seda. Photography tips Corridor shots: The corridors on both sides of the academy are excellent photo spots. Standing in the corridor, you can take photos of yourself with the red houses, and also capture the scattered red monk houses in the distance, creating a photo with a rich sense of layering. Back mountain view: If you want to overlook the entire Seda, you need to challenge yourself with a hike up the back mountain, which has an altitude of 4,300 meters. Although the process is somewhat difficult, when you reach the top of the mountain, the red houses all over the mountain against the blue sky and white clouds look like a beautiful painting unfolding before your eyes. Every shot is a masterpiece. When night falls, the starry river is bright, and the dotted lights in the red houses make it feel like you've entered the dreamy cartoon world of Hayao Miyazaki. It's extremely stunning. Itinerary planning D1: Chengdu - Zhuokeji Tusi Guanzhai - Xisuo Folk Houses - Guanyinqiao Town/Barkam - Morning: Depart from Chengdu and enjoy the magnificent scenery of western Sichuan along the way to Zhuokeji Tusi Guanzhai. This official residence has a unique architectural style, blending the essence of Tibetan and Han architecture. Stepping inside, it's like traveling through time, experiencing the glory and mystery of the former Tusi family, and learning about the history and culture of the Gyalrong Tibetans. - Noon: Enjoy local specialties at a restaurant near Zhuokeji, such as Tibetan butter tea, hand-pulled meat, and buckwheat cakes, to experience the flavors of Tibetan cuisine. - Afternoon: Head to Xisuo Folk Houses, a well-preserved Gyalrong Tibetan village. The simple houses are scattered, and stone roads wind through them. Here you can experience authentic Tibetan life and admire exquisite traditional Tibetan handicrafts, such as Thangka and Tibetan carpets. In the evening, arrive at Guanyinqiao Town or Barkam, check into the hotel, and relax after a day's journey. D2: Guanyinqiao Town/Barkam - Wengda - Seda Larung Gar Buddhist Academy - Seda County - Morning: After breakfast, depart and pass through Wengda, enjoying the natural scenery of western Sichuan, such as grasslands and mountains, along the way. After arriving in Seda, go to Larung Gar Buddhist Academy and enter according to the appointment time. First, visit the academy, experience the strong religious atmosphere, and listen to the chanting of the lamas. - Noon: Have lunch at the vegetarian restaurant in the academy, experience the light vegetarian food, and feel the simplicity of monastic life. - Afternoon: Continue to explore the academy. You can choose to follow a local guide to learn more about the history, culture, and monastic traditions of the academy, or you can stroll among the red houses, communicate with practitioners, and take photos. In the evening, go to Seda County, and enjoy local delicacies such as yak beef hot pot and Tibetan hot pot to warm up your body and mind. D3: Seda - Donggar Monastery - Chengdu - Morning: Visit Donggar Monastery, an ancient temple with a long history. The temple houses many precious Buddhist relics and Thangkas. Feel the peaceful atmosphere in the temple and admire the exquisite architecture and murals. - Noon: After lunch nearby, embark on the return journey and end this meaningful trip to Seda. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery of western Sichuan again on the way and reminisce about the unforgettable experiences of these days. Food recommendations Yak beef hot pot: In Seda, you must try the steaming yak beef hot pot. The fresh yak beef is stewed until tender and flavorful, and the soup is delicious. Served with various vegetables, it can not only replenish energy but also resist the cold of the plateau. Tibetan yogurt: It has a rich and mellow taste, with a slightly sour taste and a hint of milky fragrance. The surface is sprinkled with a layer of white sugar or honey to neutralize the sourness. It is sweet and sour, appetizing, and refreshing. Tsampa: Made from roasted barley flour, it has a crispy texture and a strong aroma of wheat. It can be eaten with butter tea. It is one of the traditional staple foods of the Tibetan people and is full of rich Tibetan flavor. Things to note Altitude sickness: Seda is located in a high-altitude area. Take precautions against altitude sickness in advance, such as taking anti-altitude sickness medicine in advance, avoiding strenuous exercise after arrival, and getting enough rest. If you experience altitude sickness symptoms, you can use oxygen to relieve them. Respect local customs: In Buddhist academies and temples, respect local religious beliefs and customs. Do not take photos at will, do not make loud noises, and abide by local regulations. Keep warm: The temperature in the plateau area is low, and even in summer, the temperature difference between day and night is large. Be sure to bring enough warm clothes, such as down jackets, thick sweaters, and thermal pants.

🌟 The "Land of Flames" ignites not just faith, but also the freedom and coolness urbanites crave. 🌞 This summer, escape to the snow-capped mountains and meadows of Barkam, where 20°C breezes blow away all your worries! 📍 Barkam, meaning "Land of Vigorous Flames" in Tibetan. 🏔️ While popular spots in Western Sichuan are overcrowded, this capital of Ngawa Prefecture remains serene as ever. 🌡️ At 2,600 meters above sea level, summer averages 20°C—open your window to snow-capped meadows and stumble upon millennia-old temples at every turn. 🗺️ 3-Day Off-the-Beaten-Path Itinerary 🚗 Day 1: Journey to the Cloud-Kissed Buddhist Kingdom • Changlie Temple (Free): Drive straight to this 3,400m-altitude "Golden Summit Buddhist Kingdom"! This 800-year-old Nyingma temple features dragon-carved white marble pillars and gilded domes that glitter like a celestial palace. 🌿 Wildflowers blanket the alpine pasture behind the temple, where yaks graze leisurely—perfect for camping and Instagram-worthy shots. 🚌 Transport: Charter a car from downtown Barkam for ¥100 (25-minute ride). 🏨 Stay: Recommend "Dust Settles Inn," a Tibetan-style wooden lodge with heaters for an immersive Gyarong cultural experience. 🌄 Day 2: Epic Cliffs and Canyons 🏰 Songgang Watchtowers + Kepan Sky Street (Free): A "City in the Sky" on cliffs! The 43m-tall Qing Dynasty octagonal watchtower overlooks the Somo River Canyon like a coiled dragon. Wander the stone-paved Sky Street and touch ancient walls featured in *Dust Settles*. 🏯 Dazang Temple (Free): A 1414 sanctuary encircled by snow peaks, housing Ming Dynasty murals and an ivory seal gifted by Emperor Qianlong. Rhododendrons bloom along the trail—camp under starry skies (note: rough 2km gravel road at the end). 🏡 Day 3: Tibetan Villages and Sacred Caves 🏡 Sisuo Village (Free): Gyarong Tibetan houses along the Somo River resemble castle clusters, with carved window frames and morning mist weaving a fairy-tale scene. 🚶‍♂️ Vairocana Holy Cave (Free): Follow in the footsteps of the 6th Dalai Lama! Hike 2 hours to this cliffside grotto wrapped in prayer flags—a test of devotion. ⚠️ Note: Zhuokeji Chieftain’s Fortress (¥55 ticket) currently offers exterior views only. 🍲 Must-Try Flavors 🐂 Yak Meat Hotpot: Are Tibetan Restaurant’s copper pot broth is rich, with tender meat and matsutake mushrooms worth licking the bowl for. 🍵 Butter Tea with Monk’s Buns: Dust Settles Teahouse’s juicy meat buns pair perfectly with Tibetan tea to cut the grease. ⚠️ Pro Tips 1️⃣ Transport: Direct buses from Chengdu Chadianzi Station (6hrs) or drive (SUV recommended; roads are good). 2️⃣ Altitude Sickness: Pack rhodiola and oxygen—avoid showers on Day 1. 3️⃣ Clothing: Summer nights are chilly! Pack a light down jacket, sun hat, and sunglasses. 4️⃣ Etiquette: No photos in temples, circle prayer wheels clockwise, and avoid touching children’s heads.

Daily Itinerary ● Day 1: Chengdu - Wenchuan - Li County - Barkam ○ Morning: Depart from Chengdu and drive along the Duwen Expressway, passing through Wenchuan. Make a brief stop to visit the Wenchuan Earthquake Ruins, reflecting on the power of nature and human resilience. Continue to Li County and enjoy the scenic Qiang village landscapes along the way. ○ Afternoon: Proceed to Barkam and visit the Zhuokeji Chieftain’s Fortress, an ancient official residence showcasing the distinctive Gyarong Tibetan architectural style. ○ Evening: Savor local Tibetan delicacies in Barkam, such as hand-grabbed mutton and butter tea. ● Day 2: Barkam - Guanyinqiao Town - Wengda - Sertar ○ Morning: Depart from Barkam and head to Guanyinqiao Town to visit the Guanyin Temple, one of the renowned monasteries of the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Then continue to Wengda Town. ○ Afternoon: Travel from Wengda to Sertar, admiring the grasslands and mountain scenery along the way. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and rest briefly. ○ Evening: Visit the Sertar Buddhist Institute to witness the breathtaking night view, where countless red monastic dwellings glow under the lights. ● Day 3: Sertar Day Tour ○ Morning: Explore the Sertar Buddhist Institute, visiting prayer halls, stupas, and other structures while listening to the monks’ chanting, immersing yourself in the profound religious atmosphere. Choose to tour on foot or by electric cart. ○ Afternoon: Visit the Sky Burial Site to observe the sky burial ceremony (check the schedule and regulations in advance). This unique funeral custom offers deep reflections on life and nature. ○ Evening: Return to the Buddhist Institute to enjoy the night scenery and photograph the starry sky. ● Day 4: Sertar - Luhuo - Dawu - Bamei - Tagong Grassland - Xinduqiao ○ Morning: Depart from Sertar and head to Luhuo, enjoying its pastoral landscapes. Then proceed to Dawu to visit the distinctive Tibetan-style Dawu dwellings. ○ Afternoon: Travel from Dawu to Bamei to marvel at the unique Bamei Stone Forest. Continue to Tagong Grassland, where you can admire the vast grasslands and the distant Yala Snow Mountain. ○ Evening: Arrive in Xinduqiao, known as the "World of Light and Shadow," and capture the stunning sunset views. ● Day 5: Xinduqiao - Kangding - Luding - Chengdu ○ Morning: Depart from Xinduqiao and head to Kangding to visit attractions like Paoma Mountain and Mugecuo Scenic Area. ○ Afternoon: Travel from Kangding to Luding, where you’ll visit the Luding Bridge and learn about the heroic feat of the Red Army’s crossing. Then return to Chengdu, concluding the trip. Western Sichuan · Sichuan

1. Barkam Guanyin Temple: The Millennial Spiritual Charm of Tibet's "Second Putuo" 1. Historical and Religious Significance - Origin Legend: Built in the 7th century AD, legend says a farmer discovered a natural four-armed Guanyin stone statue while plowing. Its form, along with those in the Potala Palace and Mount Putuo, are collectively called the "Three Sisters," earning it the title of Tibet's "Second Putuo." - Reconstruction History: The temple has been rebuilt multiple times, with the current structure dating from 1979, blending Tibetan and Han architectural styles. It attracts hundreds of thousands of pilgrims annually. 2. Architectural and Scenic Highlights - Main Structures: - Four-Armed Guanyin Hall: Houses the world's only natural four-armed Guanyin stone statue, adorned with gold, silver, coral, and other jewels. Butter lamps burn day and night, and the hall contains precious artifacts like the Kangyur scriptures. - Padmasambhava Hall: Features a golden statue of Padmasambhava on the hillside, an important site for Nyingma (Red Sect) practice. - Prayer Wheel Complex: The world's largest prayer wheel stands on the slope of Nale Mountain, over 20 meters in circumference, requiring multiple people to turn. Prayer wheel rituals are a key local custom. - Nature and Culture: The temple is built into the mountains, overlooking Guanyinqiao Town, surrounded by prayer flags, mani stones, and Tibetan villages, creating a unique "sacred mountain and holy lake" atmosphere. 3. Cultural Experiences and Activities - Pilgrimage Rituals: During the "Guanyin Bodhisattva Birthday" from the 1st to the 13th of the seventh lunar month, a grand consecration ceremony (Zhana Xia) is held, with devotees in traditional attire chanting prayers—a breathtaking sight. - Folk Interaction: Visit nearby Jiarong Tibetan villages to experience traditional homes, taste butter tea and tsampa, and join local festivals. 4. Practical Information - Opening Hours: 09:00-17:00 (open year-round; avoid midday sun). - Admission: Free, but respect religious customs—no revealing clothing or loud noises. - Transportation: About 2 hours by chartered car from Barkam city, or take a bus to Guanyinqiao Town and hike (30 minutes).

🌄 【Dawn Prelude: Awakening in the Cloud Buddha Kingdom】 As the off-road vehicle wound up the mountain road to Changlie Temple, I suddenly rolled down the window—the 3,200-meter-altitude morning breeze, carrying the scent of juniper smoke, rushed into my nostrils. The 800-year-old golden roof flickered in and out of the mist. A Tibetan-clad sister tending the incense suddenly pointed to the 30-meter gilded Buddha statue under construction: "That’s the mount of the Future Buddha... you’ll see it when the lotus blooms..." 🏞️ 【DAY1 Adventure: Golden Roofs & Pastoral Duet】 ⏰ 9:00-12:00 Changlie Temple · Heavenly Stroll 1️⃣ Prayer Wheel Matrix: Turn 108 wheels clockwise; feel the Six-Syllable Mantra carved under the 49th one. 2️⃣ Pastoral Encounter: White yaks suddenly appeared on the temple’s rear meadow. A herder let me try milking—warm milk splashed on my boots and froze instantly. 3️⃣ Buddhist College Secret: Stumbled upon young monks debating scriptures in Tibetan and Chinese, explaining *The Great Treatise on the Stages of the Path to Enlightenment*. 📸 Prime Photo Spots • East-side prayer flag forest: At 9:30 AM, sunlight pierces through colorful flags, creating a natural filter. • Under-construction Buddha platform: Use 0.5x wide-angle for a low-angle "high-five" with the Future Buddha’s palm. 🏰 【14:00-18:00 Time-Folded Theater】 1️⃣ Songgang Watchtower Exploration: Climbed to the 43-meter top; bullet marks on stone walls still bear traces of late Qing battles. The keeper pulled a goatskin map from a hidden compartment: "This was the chieftain’s escape route..." 2️⃣ Kepan Sky Street Sprint: Met a thangka-painting youth on a knife-edge ridge—his gold-painted Tara’s eyes shifted colors with the light. 🌌 【DAY2 Epic: A Cosmic Chat with Emperor Qianlong】 ⏰ 5:30-8:00 Dazang Temple · Stargazing Camp Wrapped in a borrowed yak blanket, I watched the Milky Way cascade onto Ming Dynasty murals. A night-watch lama suddenly struck a ritual drum—a fireball meteor streaked over the snow mountains. He smiled cryptically: "Emperor Qianlong is reviewing memorials!" 🎭 Hidden Gems • Whisper "holy water" to the host for glacier water once held in an ivory-sealed jar. • Trace hidden patterns on prayer wheels—three clockwise spins made my palms inexplicably warm. ✨ 【10:00-18:00 Golden Trilogy】 1️⃣ Gengda Temple Stupa Array: At noon, 108 golden stupas erupted with light. Spinning in a white dress startled crows, casting mandala shadows on my skirt. 2️⃣ Vairocana Holy Cave: While climbing the meditation cave of the Sixth Dalai Lama, a rainbow split the cliffs. The guardian monk handed me butter tea: "You’re Buddha-touched—see the sacred footprint..." 3️⃣ Xisuo Village Night Feast: On a century-old Tibetan rooftop, sipping barley wine amid Long March tales, moonlight set prayer flags rippling like waves. 📍 【2024 Pro Tips】 🚗 Transport Revolution • Rent a Tank 300 from Chengdu—Malcom’s hairpin turns rival *Initial D*. • EV charging at "Dust Settles Hotel" (free parking). 📸 Photography Codex • Use ND1000 filter at Dazang Temple for long-exposure "Buddha light" clouds. • Wear Tibetan silver on Golden Path—its reflections act as natural fill lights. 👗 Outfit Cipher • Hiking boots mandatory! Songgang’s wooden stairs are slick with black butter. • Tang-style pleated skirts pair perfectly with watchtower stonework. ⚠️ Survival Rules • Carry glucose! Cave climbs may trigger altitude sickness. • Say "Tashi Delek" to deter aggressive "dzi bead" vendors. Flipping through photos on my return flight, I spotted mysterious orbs in a Dazang Temple star shot—perhaps Malcom’s farewell gift, using millennia to turn passersby into new grooves on prayer wheels. As the Kham saying goes: "Those who see thirteen sacred mountains will remember past lives."

Reverse travel is so satisfying—a severely underestimated small town in western Sichuan As someone who's visited western Sichuan dozens of times, let me tell you: The true soul of western Sichuan isn't in those overcrowded photo spots Hidden in these vast wilderness lies a Tibetan gem frozen in time🏞 Every attraction here is breathtaking Endless grasslands, ancient temples, snow-capped mountains, and canyons will leave you in awe This is the hidden paradise many tourists miss—Barkam . With little promotion and few tourists, it's peaceful and serene It's also the setting for the novel "When Dust Settles" Perfect for off-the-beaten-path holidays Today, I'll take you treasure hunting‼️ Follow my footsteps for a journey through nature's wonders!

🏃🏃Route Arrangement Day 1: Chengdu Tianfu International Airport → Mushan Yingxue Private Hot Spring Resort (Chengdu Tianfu International Airport Branch) Day 2: Zhuokeji Tusi Chieftain's Palace Cultural Tourism Scenic Area → Xisuo Tibetan Village → Changlie Temple → Howard Johnson Hotel, Barkam Day 3: Larung Gar Buddhist Academy, Seda Day 4: Shenxianbao Scenic Area → Desheng Pear Garden Scenic Area → Ge'er Township Viewing Platform Day 5: Jiaju Tibetan Village → PeeKaboo Cliff Private Hot Spring Hotel Day 6: Zhonglu Tibetan Village → Danba Octagonal Blockhouse Homestay (Zhonglu Tibetan Village Branch) Day 7: Zhonglu Tibetan Village → Wake Up Dream Hotel (Shuangqiaogou Scenic Area, Boda Peak Snow Mountain Highway Check-in) Day 8: Shuangqiaogou → Maobiliang 🌄Recommended Check-in Spots: Shuangqiaogou: Jiaju Tibetan Village: Larung Gar Buddhist Academy, Seda: Maobiliang: Zhuokeji Tusi Chieftain's Palace Cultural Tourism Scenic Area 📌Other tips: 1. Depart for Seda at 8am. After entering Seda, take travel photos + enjoy the night view Stay at Larong Hotel that night 2. Depart for Jinchuan at 10am

Beautiful Sichuan. Pure Land Aba🏔️ This time we came to Maerkang, the capital of Aba Prefecture. 🏨By chance, I booked the Yakushika Hotel ❤Recommendation reason: 1: The budget is about 300, the price is right 2: The hotel is relatively new and will open in 2024. The building exterior is a bit novel. 3: Located next to the river valley, you can see the mountain view opposite 4: There is a unique starry sky garden on the 13th floor of the hotel 5: Cultural connotation: Mijushika means eternal residence in Tibetan. As a local hotel, it is satisfactory that the decoration and design services can meet this standard. 🏨Hotel environment: Figure 1-5 Appearance/Entrance lobby decoration/Reception desk/Cultural bar/Rest waiting area Cultural and novel The owner carefully created 🏨Hotel service: The front desk reception service was enthusiastic. When checking in, two afternoon tea experience coupons for the Starry Sky Garden on the 13th floor were given. The front desk employee Ma Jiqin was very friendly. When asked about the special food in Malkang, she enthusiastically recommended the local specialty restaurant. The experience was very good😊 🛏Room facilities: Figure 7-8 Basic room is clean and tidy. The design is more novel and fashionable than most hotels at this price. The toilet and shower room are well separated into dry and wet areas. 🚽The toilet is semi-self-service 🌟Highlights and features: Pictures 9-13 are casual shots of the Starry Sky Garden on the 13th floor. The store’s creation concept is very distinctive. Although it is not too good yet, it is still quite malleable. There are two electric windows that can be opened to directly enjoy the scenery on the other side of the valley. You can see the stars at night when the weather is good, and you can see the autumn and snow scenery in autumn and winter. It is beautiful and pleasant. 🖼Breakfast room environment: Figure 14-17 Panda Restaurant The breakfast room is exquisitely designed. As a non-star chain hotel, the breakfast configuration is quite sincere. ✅Must experience: The hotel has many other room types to choose from. In autumn and winter, we recommend the private hot spring rooms in Figures 18-20. It is comfortable to soak in the private hot spring while watching the snow scenery. There is a Polingjiasa Ruins Park next to the hotel. I think it is equivalent to the Maerkang City Mountain View Fitness Trail. It takes about 1.5 hours to go back and forth and take photos. You can see the snow-capped mountains at the mountainside and the top of the mountain. 📝Note tips: Suggestions have been given to hotel staff 1. Toilets should be equipped with convenient self-disinfection equipment as much as possible, so that consumers can use them with more confidence 2. Bathing products Please try to equip them with devices that cannot be unscrewed at will 🥳Personally, if I come to Malkang next time, I will also consider this hotel. I hope my review can serve as a reference for you. ㊗️Yajushika Hotel is getting better and better [Yeah]

#chinatravelitinerary 🏔️ – A Tibetan Wonderland Without the Crowds (A remote Tibetan town in Sichuan province with snowy peaks, ancient monasteries, and yak-filled meadows! 🏔️✨ Perfect for Tibetan culture lovers & off-the-grid adventurers. 🌿) 🗓️ Day 1: Arrival & Tibetan Monasteries ✈️ Flight: Bangkok (BKK) → Chengdu (CTU) (~4 hrs) 🚗 Drive to Barkam (~6 hrs) through stunning highland roads 🏡 Stay in a Traditional Tibetan Guesthouse 🏯 Afternoon: Explore Suopo Ancient Village – A fairytale-like village with stone watchtowers! 🛕 Visit a Hidden Monastery & Join a Tibetan Tea Ceremony 🍽️ Dinner: Authentic Tibetan Meal 🥩 Yak Meat Stew & Tsampa (Roasted Barley Flour) 🌙 Evening: Watch the Sunset Over the Snowy Mountains ✨ 🗓️ Day 2: Highland Meadows & Scenic Drives 🌄 Morning: Walk Through Vast Grasslands & See Yaks Grazing 📸 Drive Along the Scenic ‘Sky Road’ – A Winding Road with Epic Mountain Views! 🚗 Drive Back to Chengdu & Fly Home ✈️

Departed from Mianyang at 12:40 on February 22, 2025, arrived at Mucheng Village B&B at 18:00, there was a unique Tibetan welcome ceremony, the environment of the B&B was relatively good, and the scenery was also great❗️ (without climbing the mountain, the scenery in the village alone was also very good) the copper hot pot we had, with beef, bacon, crispy meat, and wild vegetables, was really delicious! I also drank a little sea buckthorn wine, which was sweet and slightly sour and very delicious. Then we danced Guozhuang and ate roasted whole lamb. The lamb here was really delicious, although the seasoning was simple. We got up at 1:30 am on the 23rd, had breakfast and set off. We took the local shuttle bus for more than 20 minutes to arrive at the starting point of the Xiaojin Ranch hike. We started hiking around 2:30. It was snowing. We walked forward in the dark. We couldn't see anything. The snow was getting thicker and thicker. The stars and the moon came out in the sky. We took a break in the cabin. We were walking the whole time. It was really desperate! I kept walking until about 7 o'clock. When I started the Despair Slope, the sky started to brighten. I saw a white expanse of snow in front of me, and snow-capped mountains all around. 🏔, The world was getting brighter and brighter, and the sky was getting bluer. I kept climbing until about 8:30 (according to the map, the altitude was about 4540 meters). I was really in bad condition and started to have a headache. I rested for a while and looked at the snow-capped mountains around me from a distance. There were yaks basking in the sun on the hillside next to me. The sea of ​​clouds between the mountains was thin and drifting. I was dazed for a while and then started to retreat. The ruthless road down the mountain is rugged and steep, and the flat road behind is covered with thick snow, making every step difficult. It reminds people of the difficulties and dangers the Red Army encountered when crossing the snow-capped mountains (because not far away is Mengbi Mountain, where the Red Army crossed the snow-capped mountains). The weather was sunny and the sun was glaring. It was very comfortable to be in the sun (but the face was not covered enough and I got sunburned). My shoes were soaked with water. I was determined to persevere. I felt like I had no desire to live (why did I have to spend money to suffer) all the way. Finally, we returned to the starting point of the hike at 14:00. We took a group photo together, went back to the B&B to eat a bowl of noodles, and then returned. We arrived in Mianyang at 20:30, and the journey ended safely.

| A Dreamy Spring Date. As spring approaches, Jinchuan is covered in a blanket of white pear blossoms, as if covered in snow. The pear blossoms bloom in full, as if telling the romance and beauty of spring. Every year from mid-March to mid-April, the pear blossoms in Jinchuan attract countless tourists to come and enjoy this dreamy spring date. 📍 Flower Viewing Spots 🎈 Sha'er Township Sha'er Township is known as the ocean of pear blossoms. Walking under the pear trees, you feel like you are in a fairyland. The pear blossoms here are as white as snow, swaying gently in the spring breeze, exuding a faint fragrance. Visitors can enjoy the gifts of nature, feel the warm sunshine of spring, and capture beautiful moments to create unforgettable memories. 🎈 Ge'er Township Ge'er Township is also a beautiful place to see pear blossoms, with stunning scenery like a natural painting. The pear trees here bloom in clusters, forming a dreamy sea of flowers. Whether you are walking among them or taking photos in the sea of flowers, you will feel the vitality and energy of spring. 👒 Special Activities ✨ Picnic under the pear trees On a warm spring day, bring delicious food and have a picnic with family and friends under the pear trees, enjoying the leisurely time. The fresh air is filled with the fragrance of pear blossoms, making every bite of food taste even more delicious, adding a touch of spring. ✨ Wear beautiful Hanfu During the pear blossom season, wearing beautiful Hanfu and taking photos among the pear blossoms is a unique experience. The combination of Hanfu and pear blossoms makes you feel like you have traveled back in time, experiencing elegance and tranquility. Whether you are taking beautiful photos or quietly admiring the pear trees, you will feel relaxed and happy. 🏨 Scenic Accommodations 🔖 Siguniang Mountain Stargazing Hotel Located at the foot of Siguniang Mountain, the Siguniang Mountain Stargazing Hotel offers excellent views. The hotel's design combines wabi-sabi and Tibetan styles, with large glass windows offering a full view of the snow-capped mountains. At night, stargazing gives you a sense of tranquility and beauty. 🔖 Gurgou Ramada Hot Spring Resort Located in the core area of Gurgou, the Gurgou Ramada Hot Spring Resort offers rooms with stunning views of the snow-capped mountains. Here, you can enjoy the comfort of hot springs while admiring the beauty of the snow-capped mountains, providing a relaxing experience for both body and mind. 🚗 Itinerary D1: Gather in Chengdu from all over the country Tourists from all over the country gather in Chengdu to start their journey to western Sichuan. As the capital of Sichuan, Chengdu has a rich culture and delicious food. Tourists can stop here to taste authentic Sichuan cuisine and experience the unique charm of the city. D2: Chengdu - Taoping Qiang Village - Xisuo Residence - Ka'er Township Pear Blossom Avenue - Jinchuan Departing from Chengdu, first visit Taoping Qiang Village to experience the rich Qiang culture. Then head to Xisuo Residence to admire the unique Tibetan architecture. Finally, arrive in Jinchuan and visit Pear Blossom Avenue to experience the Tibetan and Qiang culture and enjoy the beauty of pear blossoms. D3: Jinchuan Shenxianbao Pear Blossoms - Play with Marmots/Tibetan Macaques - Seda In Jinchuan's Shenxianbao, tourists can enjoy even more spectacular pear blossom scenery. Then, head to play with marmots and Tibetan macaques, encountering the cute animals of the plateau and experiencing the wonders and mysteries of nature. Finally, head to Seda to explore the red Buddhist kingdom and experience the rich religious culture. D4: Seda Free Tour - Daofu Residence - Daofu In Seda, tourists can choose attractions to visit based on their interests and gain a deeper understanding of Tibetan culture. Then head to Daofu to admire the unique residences and experience the lifestyle of the Tibetan people. D5: Daofu - Yala Snow Mountain Viewing Platform - Zhonglu Tibetan Village · Pear Blossoms Departing from Daofu, head to the Yala Snow Mountain Viewing Platform to admire the stunning scenery of snow-capped mountains and pear blossoms. Then head to Zhonglu Tibetan Village to experience traditional Tibetan culture and customs and experience a different way of life. D6: Zhonglu Tibetan Village - Siguniang Mountain Shuangqiaogou - Maobiliang Viewing Platform - Chengdu On the final day of the trip, tourists will head to Siguniang Mountain Shuangqiaogou to admire the magnificent natural scenery. Then head to Maobiliang Viewing Platform to overlook the beautiful valley. Finally, return to Chengdu to end this unforgettable journey to western Sichuan. 🥘 Local Cuisine In Jinchuan, tourists can not only admire the beautiful pear blossoms but also taste local cuisine. Snow pear syrup and Jinchuan yak meat are must-try delicacies. Snow pear syrup is sweet and refreshing, soothing the throat and quenching thirst. Jinchuan yak meat is tender and juicy, with a chewy texture that leaves a lasting impression. Come to Jinchuan for a romantic date with pear blossoms! Experience the beauty and vitality of nature and the rich culture and customs this spring. Don't miss this opportunity, or you'll have to wait another year! 💕

#favouriteitinerary Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture (阿坝藏族羌族自治州) – A Gateway to Tibet’s Natural Beauty & Culture --- Seda Larung Gar Buddhist Academy (色达五明佛学院) – The Largest Tibetan Buddhist School One of the largest Buddhist institutes in the world, with thousands of red wooden monk dormitories spread across the hills. Witness monastic life, sky burials, and Buddhist teachings. Altitude: ~4,000 meters; be prepared for high-altitude conditions. Best Time to Visit: Summer and early autumn (avoid winter due to extreme cold). *tips : do respect local cultures as photography or some sacred shrines, monasteries and monks are prohibited --- Travel Tips for Aba Prefecture ✅ Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn (May–October) for clear skies and accessible roads. ✅ Altitude Considerations: Many areas are above 3,000m, so acclimate properly to avoid altitude sickness. ✅ Getting There: From Chengdu: Buses or private cars (8-12 hours to major sites). Flights to Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport for Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong. ✅ Local Culture: Be respectful of Tibetan customs, especially at monasteries and sky burial sites. Aba is an incredible destination for those seeking stunning landscapes, Tibetan culture, and a peaceful retreat into nature!

This summer, I took my dog on a road trip to Western Sichuan, taking the super niche 317 route and having a completely different experience. We set off from Chengdu, taking about 4 days to reach Dege. We were in a hurry to return, so we took the same route back, taking a total of 6 days to return to Chengdu. 🛣️Route recommendations: Day 1 Chengdu ➡️ Dujiangyan Scenic Area ➡️ Ruins of Xuankou Middle School from the Wenchuan Earthquake ➡️ Memorial Hall of the Wenchuan Earthquake Epicenter ➡️ Lixian County (altitude 1,870 m), stay at Lixian Muyunjian Hotel Day 2 Bipenggou ➡️ Miyaluo ➡️ Maerkang ➡️ Guanyinqiao (altitude 2,670 m), stay at Guanyinqiao Jinchuan Millennium Holy Land Hotel Day 3 Guanyin Temple ➡️ Wengda ➡️ Seda (altitude 3,870 m), stay at Seda Waxu Hotel Day 4 Larung Gar Buddhist Academy ➡️ Kasa Lake ➡️ Yulong Lhatso ➡️ Que'er Mountain ➡️ Dege (altitude 2,900 m), stay at Dege Shandi Hotel Day 5 Dege Parkhang Printing House ➡️ Return to Maerkang (altitude 2,600 m), stay at Maerkang Junhao Hotel Day 6 Maerkang ➡️ Chengdu 🏞️Must-see attractions: 1️⃣ Dujiangyan Scenic Area: This is the only remaining grand project of the five-dam water diversion system from ancient times, which embodies the wisdom of the ancients and made Sichuan the Land of Abundance. 2️⃣ Ruins of Xuankou Middle School from the Wenchuan Earthquake: I thought the Wenchuan Earthquake was long gone, but this place still retains the appearance of that year. When you come here, you will still be shocked. 3️⃣ Bipenggou: If you have been to Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong, I would still recommend Bipenggou. The beauty of Bipenggou is really amazing. No matter what season of the year, Bipenggou is irreplaceable and definitely deserves the title of Little Switzerland in Western Sichuan! 4️⃣ Guanyin Temple: Guanyin Temple is located in Guanyinqiao Town. It is a temple built on a cliff, where you can see the world's largest Sangha stove. 5️⃣ Larung Gar Buddhist Academy: Although the altitude here is relatively high, it is still a holy place in the hearts of many people. The red houses all over the mountains and the mysterious Tibetan Buddhism are all fascinating. 6️⃣ Que'er Mountain Glacier Viewing Platform: A viewing platform on the way to Dege, with stunning scenery and plateau pikas. 7️⃣ Dege Parkhang Printing House: Dege Parkhang Printing House is not as famous as Larung Gar Buddhist Academy, but I think it is more worth visiting than Larung Gar. It still retains the ancient art of printing, which is known as the "living fossil of Chinese movable type printing". 🌈Tips: ✔️This route can be visited all year round, with different scenery in each season. ✔️Dogs are not allowed in more cultural places, but there are many viewing platforms along the way where dogs can have fun.

In the mountains of western Sichuan, there is a place like a paradise on earth - Xisuo Tibetan Houses. When you step into this land, the first thing that catches your eye is the unique architectural complex. The stone and wood houses are built with stone and yellow mud, and the traces of time are visible on the walls, as if quietly telling stories of the past. The houses look like devout believers sitting cross-legged, with the four corners of the roof flying like birds spreading their wings, and every line flows with the Jiarong Tibetan people's unique understanding of beauty and their fervent prayers for life. Walking along the winding alleys, the stone road under your feet is polished smooth and flat by time. The doors and windows of the houses are exquisitely carved with intricate and gorgeous patterns, including the auspicious eight treasures pattern, and the lively birds, animals, flowers, and plants, which are the Tibetan craftsmen's hands giving the wood a soul, engraving culture and faith on it. Xisuo Tibetan Houses are not just a group of buildings, but a living museum of Jiarong Tibetan history and culture, a solidified history book, waiting for every traveler to read and savor, making people intoxicated and lost.

Xisuo Residence Located in Barkam City, Aba Prefecture, Sichuan Province Free admission There is a parking lot at the entrance, and local residents will charge CNY 10 Opposite Xisuo Residence is the very famous Zhuokeji Tusi Official Manor, which is currently under repair and not open to the public, so you can visit Xisuo Residence. Xisuo Residence is a typical Jiarong Tibetan village with a "stone house" architectural style, especially the window frames are very exquisite, with carved and painted decorations, which are quite colorful and have a strong ethnic flavor

On the mountain outside of Maerkang City, drive all the way to the top of the mountain, 900 meters vertically above the Somo River Valley, 3,400 meters above sea level. There is a cool temple with a huge statue of Padmasambhava under construction, which is very spectacular… There are two paths from Ma'erkang City to Changlie Temple. Both paths go out of the city along National Highway 107 and turn left towards Tibet. The two paths start from the bottom of the valley and climb back and forth like a comb all the way to Changlie Temple at an altitude of about 3,500 meters. The road is very narrow and in many places only one car can pass. At some bends, the car also needs to reverse to turn. Changlie Temple is located on Changlie Mountain in Ma'erkang County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province. It was founded in the 1240s and has a history of more than 800 years. The monastery, which belongs to the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism, was destroyed during the Cultural Revolution but was rebuilt in the 1980s on the site of the old monastery. Currently, Changlie Temple is open from 6:00 to 18:00 every day, and admission is free… Changlie Temple

Vairocana Holy Cave in Maerkang City, Aba Prefecture Vairocana Holy Cave | A mysterious holy place for spiritual practice on the western Sichuan plateau My dears, today I want to share with you a great niche attraction - the Vairocana Caves in Ma'erkang City, Aba Prefecture. The Vairocana Holy Cave is located on the Vairocana Mountain at an altitude of more than 3,000 meters, on the north bank of the Suomo River Grand Canyon. It was built before the Tang Dynasty and has a long history. This is where the Tang Dynasty Tibetan writer and translator Vairocana practiced. During the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty, the Sixth Cangyang Gyatso also practiced here, leaving behind many legends and holy sites, adding a mysterious color to this land. On the way to the Vairocana Cave, you can feel the full Tibetan style. There are colorful prayer flags along the road, as well as large prayer wheels driven by spring water and white pagodas wrapped with prayer flags, which seem to be telling the story of piety and faith here. It is not easy to reach the holy cave. You need to hike up along a steep and narrow mountain road. Although the process is difficult, the moment you see the holy cave, you will feel that it is all worth it. The entrance of the holy cave is 20 meters high and wide, and 30 meters deep. The temple is built inside the cave. The cave is full of strange phenomena, including Vairocana's footprints, handprints, crutches left behind and other holy relics, which make people marvel at the wonders of nature and the profoundness of religious culture. There is no hustle and bustle of the city here, only tranquility and peace. It is a good place to purify and sublimate the soul. Being in it, it seems as if you can travel through time and space, have a spiritual dialogue with ancient eminent monks and feel their dedication and perseverance in their beliefs. Here comes the point. The Vairocana Cave is open to the public free of charge. You can enter and visit without a ticket. Isn’t that awesome?

Zhuokeji Tusi Official Manor Cultural Tourism Scenic Area|||Zhuokeji Tusi Official Manor Cultural Tourism Scenic Area is located on the beautiful northwest plateau of Sichuan, at the intersection of National Highway 317 and Provincial Highway 210, in Maerkang City, and is an important node on the Tibetan-Qiang-Yi Cultural Corridor. The tourist area has famous tourist attractions such as Zhuokeji Tusi Official Manor, the Red Army Long March Memorial Hall, Xisuo Folk House, and Jiarong Chongkang Street, which contain Tusi culture, Buddhist culture, architectural culture, folk culture, and red culture, with distinct ethnic characteristics. Among them, Zhuokeji Tusi Official Manor integrates the exquisite architectural art of the Tibetan and Han nationalities and is known as "a pearl in the history of Oriental architecture." During the Long March of the Red Army, Mao Zedong, Zhou Enlai, Zhu De, and others led the Red Army to rest in the manor for a week, carrying out expansion, food preparation, and propaganda work. Zhuokeji Tusi Official Manor was built in 1286, destroyed by fire in 1936, and rebuilt on the original site in 1938 by the 16th Tusi Suo Guanying. Zhuokeji is a transliteration of the Tibetan language, meaning the top and supreme. "Tu" is the local aboriginal people, and "Si" is the official position. Tusi was the highest ruler of the region, holding political, economic, and military power. The manor covers a total area of 5,400 square meters, imitating the Han-style quadrangle courtyard. The main house in the north is a fake six-story building, the east and west wing rooms are five stories, and the middle is a patio, with a total of 63 large and small rooms, composed of walls, high towers, screen walls, prisons, and the main building of the manor. Zhuokeji Tusi Official Manor integrates the exquisite architectural essence of the Tibetan and Han nationalities and was praised by the famous American writer Salisbury as "a pearl in the history of Oriental architecture." The manor tells visitors about its architectural features and people's life stories during the Tusi period, introduces the history and character stories of Tusi, explains the Tusi system, reproduces the life of Tusi, displays the folk culture of the Jiarong Tibetan people, and reveals the mystery of Tibetan Buddhism. Every corner of the manor retains a piece of history, every exhibition room tells a story, and every exhibition hall presents a picture. Zhuokeji Tusi Official Manor is also the story prototype of "Dust Settled" and the location of the TV series.

Received the blessing from Lama monk, thank you ☺️

Xisuo Folk Houses are located in Zhuokeji Town, Maerkang City, Aba Prefecture, Sichuan Province. It is a village with typical Jiarong Tibetan characteristics, which was built in the Qing Dynasty. It is backed by mountains and faces the water. It is the most typical and best-preserved settlement village of the Jiarong Tibetans. Xisuo people have maintained the traditional architectural style of "stacking stones as rooms" of the Jiarong ancestors. The village is well-arranged and well-organized. Walking on the bluestone path, the footsteps echo in the towering stone walls and extend in the narrow path, giving people a sense of seclusion. Zhuokeji Chieftain Manor, which is separated by a river from Xisuo Village, is built on the mountain, facing south to the north. It was built in 1718 during the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty and is a four-story turret. In July 1935, Comrade Mao Zedong and the central government stayed in the official residence for a week during the Long March and held the famous "Zhuokeji Conference" during the Long March. In 1988, Zhuokeji Chieftain Manor was listed as the third batch of national key cultural relics protection units by the State Council. Later, Zhuokeji Chieftain Manor was officially included in the national red tourism classic scenic spot.

| A hidden gem in Western Sichuan. Do you think Western Sichuan is already beautiful enough? Actually, there is a historical city in the Western Sichuan Plateau that is severely underestimated - Malang🏯. It boasts rich natural and cultural landscapes, including grasslands, ancient temples, snow-capped mountains, and canyons. With few tourists, it is a peaceful and relaxing place to visit. 🚗Itinerary - DAY1: Chengdu—Changlie Temple—Malang. - DAY2: Genda Temple—Songgang Watchtower—Kepen Tianguo—Dazang Temple—Malang. - DAY3: Xiso Residence—Vairocana Holy Cave—Return. You can choose to drive yourself or hire a car🚙 based on your own situation. 🏞Recommended attractions - Dazang Temple: Built in 1414, located deep in the mountains, with a grand scale. The stone and wood architecture is unique. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, herds of cattle and sheep, and alpine meadows. Free admission🎫. - Changlie Temple: With a history of over 800 years, located on Changlie Mountain. Numerous halls, magnificent and resplendent. Camping is available in the alpine meadows near the temple. The mountain road has many bends. Free admission🎫. - Songgang Zhiboguo Watchtower: Built during the reign of Emperor Qianlong in the Qing Dynasty, consisting of 2 watchtowers. The octagonal watchtower is 43 meters high. Free admission🎫. - Kepen Tianguo: Located on a mountain ridge, including the ruins of Guanzhai. Free admission🎫. - Genda Temple: Built on a hillside near the city center, with a spectacular group of golden pagodas and a golden Buddha statue. More beautiful in the morning when the sun shines. Free admission🎫. - Xiso Residence: Tibetan village built along a river, with three-story stone houses and carvings. Very unique. Free admission🎫. - Vairocana Holy Cave: Where Tsangyang Gyatso practiced meditation. The terrain is steep, with attractions such as the Holy Spring. Walking takes 2-3 hours. Experienced drivers can drive there. Free admission🎫. - Zhuokeji Tibetan Village: A centuries-old chieftain's official residence, grand and magnificent. Currently only available for exterior viewing. 🏨Accommodation: Many hotels in Malang city center, catering to different budgets. 🍜Food: Qiu Er Restaurant's stir-fried mushrooms are large and fresh. Tupuolinke Ecological Tibetan Restaurant's hand-grabbed beef and stir-fried beef are delicious. Come to Malang and embark on a unique journey through nature🎉！

Still worried about which homestay to choose in Western Sichuan? Still struggling with the homestay environment, atmosphere, and facilities? Don't worry, follow me. As a person who often likes to travel to Western Sichuan, the choice of homestay is simply easy. I will share with you a few more luxurious but cost-effective homestays, and you can choose rationally. Aba Prefecture: Siguniang Mountain - Yidaiyin and Ji One of the most difficult homestays to book in Western Sichuan, the snow mountain is the theme of this homestay. The homestay is not only warm in atmosphere, but also has a good experience. Maerkang - Mai Dashidambayi The actual scenery is much better than the photos, whether it is accommodation or meals, all aspects are quite good. Lixian - Guangzhao Menggu A single wooden house in the secret valley of the valley, the homestay is mainly decorated in Nordic style, the single wooden house is spacious, and it is also very good to take pictures in the snow in winter, and there are characteristic Tibetan hot pots. Bipenggou - Namu Lake Resort Hotel The hotel building rises due to the mountain situation and is built on the slope. The interior uses a large amount of bamboo, rattan, hemp and other natural materials to form a simple Japanese natural style. Ganzi Prefecture: Xinduqiao - Mi Yunye She Private Soup Homestay A bit niche, if you want to be clean and good-looking, you can rush to this homestay. The structure outside the floor-to-ceiling windows can take all the beautiful scenery into your eyes. There are not only many play facilities in the small courtyard, but also camping. Tagong - Kangding Nori Tong Homestay Living here, under the stars, you can have the entire Tagong Prairie as soon as you open the window, you can see the stars while lying down, it's very comfortable to think about... Gulong Village - Dongri Gabu Homestay The homestay under the snow mountain, you can see the snow mountain outside the window, sitting in the house eating hot pot and watching movies, waiting for a romantic sunrise. Other homestay recommendations: Jiuzhaigou - Guanghe Yun Duo·Xue Bao Ding Boutique Homestay There are a total of seven independent tree houses, all facing Xuebaoding Snow Mountain, and a 270-degree viewing snow mountain restaurant l, where you can enjoy food in the embrace of the snow mountain forest. Daocheng Yading - Xiangcheng Guanyuan Wild Luxury Vacation Beauty House Each room has its own view, you can see the mountain view, pastoral scenery and lake view, after dinner, you can go to the rooftop open-air bar to watch the sunset... Hailuogou - Guanfu Hot Spring Hotel Here is a natural geothermal hot spring. Among the 19 guest rooms, six are indoor Japanese-style hot spring pool styles. The outdoor garden on the fourth floor also has a comfortable large pool. You can also overlook the snow mountain while soaking in the hot spring. Dagu Glacier - Galle Manor The suite is the main one, which is super suitable for a family to come on vacation. The homestay has a high mountain art gallery, Tibetan tea museum, themed afternoon tea, coffee, book bar... Do you know any other good homestays? Share with each other

|A single-family villa hotel on the top of a cliff. The Wild and Luxurious Hotel is located in Ma'erkang City, a must-pass road on Highway 317 in Aba Prefecture, Sichuan Province. It is 2,800-3,000 meters above sea level and occupies a narrow mountain ridge. The 10 duplex villas are scattered around and offer excellent privacy. The altitude preserves the four-season landscape of Tibet while preventing guests from experiencing altitude sickness or other discomfort. One can sit or lie among the scenery, feeling extremely comfortable with every breath. Tamba Village, known as "Tamba above the clouds", is beautiful all year round! Spring is like a fairyland with rolling clouds; summer is full of flowers and fragrance; autumn is full of colorful forests and poetic red leaves; winter is covered with silver and white snow. Mai Da Shi Danbo Image Hotel Danbo Village, Songgang Town, Maerkang, Sichuan Recommended reasons: The site is located on the top of a cliff surrounded by mountains The glass dome where you can actually lie down and watch the stars Unique villas with infinity pools as standard Meticulous and thoughtful private butler service Rooms: The first floor is the leisure and entertainment area, which is spacious and comfortable with an excellent view; the second floor is the starry sky room living room, where you can lie on the bed on a nice night and gaze at the stars through the floor-to-ceiling windows. Each villa is also equipped with a private bathtub and a large terrace with a view. You can close your eyes and blend with nature. The outdoor "private hot spring bath" not only ensures privacy, but also adds a lot of rare fresh experiences in western Sichuan.

Ordinary life is actually very simple. In this place, you can always see a group of people walking around the monastery, praying for the health, success, and peace of their families and themselves. Dazang Monastery is located directly north of Maerkang County in Sichuan, about 680 kilometers from Chongqing, situated in the deep mountains at an altitude of over 3,000 meters. The monastery was built by Awang Zhaba (a disciple of Tsongkhapa) and was the last of the 108 monasteries he constructed in his lifetime. 'Dazang' means 'perfect faith' in Tibetan. Historically, Dazang Monastery was very famous and was considered the main monastery of the Gelug sect in northern Sichuan. In the Potala Palace in Lhasa, a mural titled 'Important Monasteries in Tibet' also includes this grand monastery. We drove to Dazang Monastery, departing from Chongqing, which took about twelve hours. Upon arriving at Dazang Monastery, one recommended activity is a mini pilgrimage. The monastery has collected soil from various major Buddhist holy sites and made them into several monuments. Pilgrims can pay homage to these monuments, which is equivalent to paying homage to distant Buddhist holy sites. Auspicious and wish-fulfilling.

Learn about the history of the Jiarong Tibetans, appreciate Jiarong Tibetan culture, and experience the charm of the Jiarong Tibetans. Zhuokeji Township Xisuo Village, a peaceful and peaceful Jiarong Tibetan village, is located 7 kilometers east of Maerkang. The entire village is built on the mountain, with a clear and clear Suomo River rushing past the village. There is a conspicuous Tusi official village opposite the village. The story prototype of A Lai's novel "Dust Settles" is based on this Tusi family and Zhuokeji Village. The Tusi official village is all built of wood. Although it has collapsed nearly half, it can still see its scale and momentum. The ruins of the broken walls and ruins have a different sense of decadence and incompleteness in the setting sun. American writer Sauls Berry praised it as "a pearl in the history of Eastern architecture" (currently under maintenance and not open). Xisuo Village was mostly the servants, merchants, and folk craftsmen of Zhuokeji Tusi during the Tusi period. After the liberation, this place was designated as the first group of Xisuo Village. The villagers who now live in the village are mostly the descendants of the original Tusi servants, merchants and craftsmen. The longest resident in the village has reproduced dozens of generations. There are many homestays, farmhouses, restaurants, bars and coffee shops in the village, which is a living history museum. Ticket information: free Other expenses: self-driving 10 yuan parking fee

I thought Western Sichuan was a treasure trove, until I went to Maerkang Compared to popular destinations, I prefer unique niche destinations Western Sichuan is a popular destination in summer and autumn, attracting tourists from all over the world On the vast Western Sichuan Plateau, there is a historical city that is seriously underestimated - Maerkang Many tourists only use it as a transfer station, but they don't know that there are many treasures here As long as you experience it once, you will be shocked by its rich natural and cultural landscapes Every attraction here is breathtaking Grasslands, ancient temples, snow-capped mountains, canyons, dazzling There are also very few tourists, leisurely and wonderful Follow my footsteps on a journey through nature 🗺Route: DAY1: Chengdu—Changlie Temple—Maerkang DAY2: Genda Temple—Songgang Watchtower—Kopan Street—Dazang Temple—Maerkang DAY3: Xisuo Residential Group—Vairocana Holy Cave—Return The attractions are relatively scattered, you can drive by yourself or take a chartered car Recommended features 1. Dazang Temple Located in the deep mountains north of Maerkang, it was built in 1414. The temple is magnificent, with continuous halls and monks' houses covering three hillsides, mostly stone and wood flat-roofed buildings, with architectural features of the Ming and Qing dynasties It is now a national key cultural relics protection unit, and the temple still preserves the ivory seals, woven cotton fabrics, jade-granted celestial garments, five-Buddha crowns, imperial edicts and imperial decrees presented by Emperor Qianlong The location is excellent, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, herds of cattle and sheep, and large alpine meadows, with abundant wildflowers on the meadows, which are breathtakingly beautiful. Many locals and lamas set up tents on the meadows beside the temple to drink tea and chat Tickets: None 2. Changlie Temple Located on Changlie Mountain in the suburbs, it is magnificent, solemn and sacred. It has a history of more than 800 years. There are many halls here, which are magnificent and have many highlights. There is also a huge Buddha statue under construction in the temple, which is extremely shocking. When you walk in front of it, you feel like you have megalophobia~ There is a wide alpine meadow beside the temple, where you can camp and enjoy the view of the city You can drive directly into the temple without hiking, there are many mountain roads, suitable for old drivers The vegetarian food in the temple is said to be very good Tickets: None . 3. Songgang Direct Wave Ancient Watchtower Built during the reign of Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty, it consists of two stone and wood watchtowers, one of which is an octagonal watchtower 43 meters high, which has tilted 2.3 meters in the past 100 years, known as the Chinese version of the Leaning Tower of Pisa Tickets: None 4. Kopan Street The official village built by Songgang Tusi in imitation of the Potala Palace, located on a dangerous mountain ridge, including the official village ruins, official residence watchtower, dozens of Jia Rong residential houses, etc. You can enjoy a panoramic view of the vast mountains while strolling among them Tickets: None 5. Genda Temple Located on the hillside of the city, it is built on the mountain, layer upon layer. The most eye-catching thing is the rows of magnificent golden pagodas and the huge golden Buddha statue in front of the temple gate, especially suitable for visiting in the morning, when the golden pagodas and Buddha statue shine brightly in the sunlight Tickets: None 6. Xisuo Residential Area Very close to the city, the entire Tibetan village is built along the river, with houses lined up and staggered. The houses in the village are all three-story stone buildings, built with stone slabs, with carvings on the door and window frames, which are very local Tickets: None 7. Vairocana Holy Cave A cliff cave temple where Tsangyang Gyatso practiced, the terrain is extremely dangerous, with holy springs, prayer flags and other landscapes. It takes 2-3 hours to walk back and forth, and you can also drive there, but only for old drivers Tickets: None 8. Zhuokeji Tibetan Village A national key cultural relics protection unit, the Tusi official village with a history of hundreds of years, is magnificent and imposing. It is also a place where the Red Army lived during the Long March. Unfortunately, it needs to be repaired due to the deformation of the building structure, and currently only the exterior can be viewed 🍲Accommodation There are many hotels in Maerkang city, with different prices 🍲Food Guide: Qiu Er Restaurant: A Sichuan restaurant with large portions and good value for money, highly recommended fresh stir-fried mushrooms every day Tubolinca Ecological Tibetan Restaurant: A relatively authentic Tibetan restaurant, with good hand-grabbed beef and stir-fried beef

On the evening of July 8, 2024, at a quarter past 8, we crossed the prayer wheel bridge over Nazugou and entered Xisuo Residences, also known as Zhuokeji Ancient Street. Xisuo Residences are uniquely characterized by the Jiarong Tibetan style, maintaining the traditional architectural style of the Jiarong ancestors who built their houses with stones. The village is densely packed and well-arranged, looking like a fortified ancient castle from a distance. Walking on the bluestone paths, the sound of footsteps echoes between the towering stone walls, extending through the narrow paths, giving a sense of secluded tranquility. These distinct, angular stone buildings blend seamlessly with the surrounding rugged mountains and steep cliffs. The bright totem houses, red tiles, and fluttering prayer flags add a touch of mystery to the place. The Tibetan village consists entirely of three-story stone buildings. The ground floor is for livestock, the second floor serves as the kitchen and living quarters, and the third floor is the prayer hall and guest rooms. The residential buildings are shaped like watchtowers, also known as diaolou. The walls around the houses are built with stone slabs bonded with yellow mud. The walls are up to 1 meter thick, constructed with an inward tapering method. The craftsmen, relying solely on experience, build stone walls as neatly as if they were cutting tofu, with sharp edges, narrow at the top and wide at the bottom. The entire wall is in a compressive state, becoming the main load-bearing structure of the building. Additionally, the internal wooden beams support and pull each other, making the entire building smaller at the top and larger at the bottom, with the center of gravity inward, providing strong stability. At the highest point, the corners of the watchtower form sharp edges, creating a sense of momentum. The edges of the stone walls at the highest point are thickened to avoid flat surfaces, enhancing the three-dimensional effect. The roof is divided into two parts: the front half is flat with low walls on three sides, and the rear half forms a sloped shape covered with stone slabs or tiles. The windows on each floor are small on the outside and large on the inside, with elaborate window frames featuring carving, painting, and coloring techniques, rich in ethnic characteristics. These watchtowers are not only warm in winter and cool in summer but also have unique architectural artistry and high aesthetic value, like precious works of art.

Mai Da Shi Danbo Imagery Hotel is located on the mountain in Danbo Village, Aba Prefecture, Sichuan Province, at an altitude of 2800-3000 meters. The altitude allows guests to enjoy the four-season scenery of the Tibetan area without experiencing altitude sickness, making every breath and moment incredibly pleasant. Mai Da Shi Danbo Imagery Hotel is situated on the Qingye Cliff in Aba, Western Sichuan, at an altitude of 3000 meters. The 10 buildings with strong artistic sense hang like islands on the high mountains. Danbo—meaning "tribe living on the hillside," does not have the fame of towering mountains and rivers, nor the bustling crowds of famous towns and ancient villages. However, it offers the tranquility of ancient castle villages up close and the magnificent view of snow-capped mountains from afar, with a simple and unpretentious design that harmonizes with the plateau. There are no luxurious hotel lobbies or resort-style room clusters here; 10 independent villas are built according to the terrain, discreetly nestled among the mountains, offering high privacy. The narrow triangular glass dome design extends upwards, absorbing light and warmth. At night, you can see the starry sky just by looking up. The large viewing terrace offers colorful forest views, snow-covered canyons, and a distant view of the blue sky and pure land, giving a sense of standing at the peak. The hotel rooms are 10 independent duplex pool villas, each 233 square meters. The design is divided into two floors: the first floor features a simple and stylish space design, spacious and comfortable to live in; the second floor is a starry sky room where you can count stars and watch the moon from your bed. The outdoor "private hot spring pool" ensures privacy while adding a rare fresh experience in Western Sichuan. The hotel also offers facilities such as a Western restaurant, bar, café, and gym, integrating modern urban living elements into this secret realm, providing guests with a comfortable and unique experience. Mai Da Shi Danbo Imagery Hotel. Address: About 400 meters up the mountain in Danbo Village, Songgang Town, Maerkang.