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

true smiles can give happiness

Dzongsar landscapes in the winter and summer

Dzongsar landscape in the winy and summer! Dege county, ganzi Tibetan prefecture.

12 Must-See Secret Destinations and 30 Thrilling Ways to Play: Breathtaking Scenery Despite the Altitude Ultimate Scenery 🏔️ Daocheng Yading: Tears of the Blue Planet. I crawled 4,700 meters to see Milk Lake. 🌄 Mount Siguniang's Shuangqiao Valley is a must-see! The snow-capped mountains reflected in the lake and the colorful autumn forests will fill your camera's memory. Wilderness Highway 🚗 China National Highway 318's most explosive section! Driving on cliffs with clouds rolling under the wheels. Includes a self-driving map. 🌌 Xinduqiao: A photographer's secret spot. The twilight and the smoke from Tibetan villages create images worthy of a Windows desktop background. Hidden Gems 💎 Cuopu Gou: More wild than Switzerland. Soak in a highland hot spring while gazing at the snow-capped mountains. It's magical. 🦌 Tagong Grassland: A hidden adventure! Ride horses to chase marmots, and learn to use a sling from local herders. Spiritual Sanctuaries 🕯️ Larung Gar Buddhist Academy: 4am! Red-robed monks walk through the fog, as if I've traveled to another dimension. 🎨 Derge Sutra Printing House: A living fossil! Print a prayer flag by hand. A Tibetan woman says the scriptures travel far with the wind. Daredevil Experiences 🧗 Chang Chuan Bi Trek: A life-or-death challenge! Climb over eight mountain passes in five days, and listen to wolves howl in a tent at the foot of a glacier. 🌠 Guide to Stargazing Tents at Lengga Cuo: It's worth freezing at 4,500 meters to see the reflection of Mount Gongga. Foodie Secrets 🔥 Western Sichuan Yak Hot Pot: An explosion of flavor! Drink it with highland barley wine until you're tipsy. Locals say my face is as red as the plateau. 🍵 Butter Tea and Tsampa: The ultimate comfort food! The grandma smiled and added three more pieces of milk curd to my bowl. Highly Praised Headlines 👉 Western Sichuan Post-Trip Syndrome: Can't breathe when looking at city skyscrapers. 👉 Lessons Learned from Western Sichuan: These 'Instagrammable Spots' almost destroyed my car and me. 👉 Not for Couples! We survived altitude sickness together in Western Sichuan and went straight to get our marriage license. 👉 Brave Western Sichuan with Kids! Digging for caterpillar fungus and making tsampa. The kids say it's 100 times more exciting than math class. 💡 Popularity Code: Ultimate sensation + sense of conflict + regional scarcity + mind-blowing quotes

#chinatransit Qing Zhen Da Si Mosque was truly breathtaking! The moment I stepped inside, I felt a deep sense of peace and connection. The beautiful architecture and stunning decorations made it feel like a sacred haven. Being there felt like being at my place of worship, where I could pray, reflect, and recharge. It was an incredible experience that left me feeling calm and inspired!

#discoverchina Set off from Chengdu on a Tibetan cultural journey—no Tibet permit needed! Tibetans have a history of nearly 1,400 years, dating back to the 7th century when Songtsen Gampo established the Tibetan Empire. In western Sichuan, Tibetan Buddhist monasteries like Gengqing Monastery, Wangdui Monastery, and Zongsa Monastery boast centuries of history and stunning architecture. Come explore these incredible Tibetan sites and experience the rich heritage of Sichuan’s Tibetan culture! #chengdutravel #chengdu #tibet #tibettravel #chineseculture #tibetan — at Chengdu 成都.

Hey everyone! Let's embark on a spontaneous trip to Seda and Yading! Here's a 7-day guide to help you navigate the plateau scenery and avoid tourist traps! -- 🚗Itinerary: D1: Siguniang Mountain -> Shuangqiao Valley Admire the magnificent scenery of Siguniang Mountain and explore the natural beauty of Shuangqiao Valley. D2: Yala Snow Mountain Viewing Platform -> Moxi Park Scenic Area -> Seda Golden Horse Prairie Ascend the Yala Snow Mountain Viewing Platform for panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains, explore the unique landforms of Moxi Park, and stroll through the vast Seda Golden Horse Prairie. D3: Seda Spend the entire day in Seda, immersing yourself in the local culture and customs. D4: Letong Ancient Town -> Rabbit Mountain -> Red Grassland -> Yading White Pagoda Wander through the ancient town of Letong, experience Tibetan culture, then head to Rabbit Mountain and the Red Grassland, and finally visit the Yading White Pagoda for a blend of natural and cultural experiences. D5: Yading -> Yading-Chonggu Temple Explore the mystical beauty of Yading, visit the ancient Chonggu Temple, and experience the profound heritage of Tibetan Buddhism. D6: Zheqing Temple -> Yuzixi Visit Zheqing Temple to learn about Tibetan Buddhist culture, then proceed to Yuzixi to enjoy the tranquility of the plateau lake. D7: Mugecuo Spend the last day at Mugecuo Scenic Area, appreciating the grandeur and beauty of the plateau lake, and conclude your wonderful journey.🌄 -- Must-Visit Attractions: ✨Yading⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: Shangri-La Town, Daocheng County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province Opening hours: November 20, 2024–March 31, 2025, 8:20 am–6:00 pm Duration: 1–3 days This is a land of purity, with three majestic and sacred mountains, and colorful meadows. It's a paradise for photographers and hikers. 🏔️Siguniang Mountain⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: Siguniangshan Town, Xiaojin County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture Opening hours: 8:00 am–6:30 pm Duration: 1–2 days Siguniang Mountain resembles four maidens in white veils, with four interconnected peaks and magnificent scenery. It's an ideal destination for mountaineering and outdoor adventures. 🌲Shuangqiao Valley⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: Siguniangshan Scenic Area, Siguniangshan Town, Xiaojin County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture Opening hours: 8:00 am–3:00 pm Duration: 3–4 hrs Shuangqiao Valley features a mix of forests, grasslands, and pastures, with snow-capped peaks in the distance. It's a great place to experience the charm of nature. 🌊Mugecuo⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: Wangmu Village, Yala Township, Kangding City, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture Opening hours: December 1, 2024–March 31, 2025, 8:30 am–6:00 pm Duration: 3–4 hrs Mugecuo boasts beautiful lake scenery, where lakes and hot springs blend together. It's a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty. -- Some tips: - Local specialties: Yading's matsutake mushrooms are super famous, about 150 yuan/500g. Don't forget to bring some home!🍄 - Food recommendations: You must try the Yading roast whole lamb and the highland red fruits. Delicious and healthy!🍖🍓 - Airport transportation: Yading Airport is some distance from the scenic area, so plan your transportation in advance!🚗 - Photo spots: The Red Grassland, ancient glacier ruins, and Chonggu Meadow are all great places for photos!📸 - Friendly reminder: Yading has a high altitude, so be aware of altitude sickness. Also, respect local customs!🙏 -- From Seda to Yading, the scenery is boundless. I hope you find your inner peace on this journey. Don't forget to share your travel stories!

A seven-day tour guide from Seda to Daocheng Yading is here! With a well-planned itinerary, we'll take you to experience the beautiful scenery. Save it now and start your dream journey! -- 🛤️Itinerary: Day 1：Four Sisters Mountain—Shuangqiao Valley On the first day, we will visit the magnificent Four Sisters Mountain and then head to Shuangqiao Valley to marvel at nature's wonders. Day 2：Yala Snow Mountain Viewing Platform—Mo Shi Park—Seda Golden Horse Prairie On the second day, we will go to the Yala Snow Mountain Viewing Platform to enjoy the distant view of the snow-capped mountains. Then, we will visit Mo Shi Park to experience the unique geological landscape. Finally, we will stroll through the Seda Golden Horse Prairie, enjoying the vastness of the grassland and the tranquility of nature. Day 3：Seda On the third day, we will explore Seda in depth, experiencing the mystery and tranquility of this place and purifying our souls. Day 4：Letong Ancient Town, Litang—Tu'er Mountain—Red Grassland—Daocheng White Pagoda On the fourth day, we will visit Letong Ancient Town and Litang to experience Tibetan culture. Afterwards, we will pass by Tu'er Mountain and the Red Grassland to admire the colorful nature. Finally, we will visit the Daocheng White Pagoda to experience the solemnity and sacredness of Tibetan Buddhism. Day 5：Daocheng Yading—Chonggu Temple On the fifth day, we will enter Daocheng Yading and explore this wonderland. Afterwards, we will visit Chonggu Temple and listen to ancient Buddhist legends. Day 6：Zheqing Temple—Yuzixi On the sixth day, we will visit Zheqing Temple and experience the profound heritage of Tibetan Buddhism. Afterwards, we will go to Yuzixi to appreciate the tranquility and beauty of the plateau lake. Day 7：Mu Ge Co On the last day, we will visit Mu Ge Co and conclude our journey in this natural scenic area, leaving unforgettable memories.🌲✨ -- Travel tips： March Climate🌦️：The temperature in Daocheng Yading in March is moderate, warm and comfortable during the day, but with a large temperature difference between day and night. It is recommended to bring warm clothes. Local Customs🎉：Respect local Tibetan beliefs and customs, such as not touching other people's heads and avoiding disturbing the inside of temples. Food🍲：Try Tibetan yak hot pot and plateau fish, as well as specialty ingredients such as matsutake, which are delicious and nutritious. Specialty Prices🛍️：Yak jerky and matsutake are good souvenirs. Prices vary depending on quality and season. It is recommended to compare prices before buying. -- 🎉Hope you have a lot of fun and unforgettable memories on your trip to Seda and Daocheng Yading!

Thousands of miles away, across vast mountains and wilderness, lies the western world and the sun and moon in my heart. Between 2021 and 2024, I embarked on six journeys to Tibet, noting down the places with the most unique scenery along the routes in various regions of Tibet: Western Sichuan: Mount Genyen, Jinchuan Lover's Sea, Yulonglacuo Lake in Dege, and Lianbaoyeze. Northern Yunnan: Dukezong Ancient Town and Meili Snow Mountain. Eastern and Southeastern Tibet: Namcha Barwa, Tainingtanggula Mountains, and Sapu Mountain. Tibet Ali Great Loop: Shishapangma, Mount Kailash, and Lake Manasarovar.

My dears, take an 11-day tour from Chengdu to Seda to Baqing to explore the beautiful scenery of western Sichuan! Super detailed guide is coming, hurry up and grab it! -------------------- 🛤️Route arrangement: DAY1-DAY2: Depart for Chengdu, pass Wenchuan and Ma'erkang, and arrive at Guanyinqiao Town or Ma'erkang for a rest. DAY3: Go to Seda from Guanyinqiao Town and arrive at Seda County. DAY4: Visit Seda County, pass Kasa Lake, Gesar King City, Xinluhai, and arrive at Derge. DAY5: Depart from Derge, visit Derge Sutra Printing House, go to Tibet Jiefang Village, Qambaling Monastery, and then to Qamdo. DAY6-DAY7: Depart from Chamdo, visit Leiwuqi, Zizhu Mountain, go to Bianba County via Dingqing, and visit Wala Monastery and Three-Colored Lake on the way. DAY8-DAY9: Depart from Bianba County, visit Samucuo and Sapu Sacred Mountain, go to Nagqu City via Burang County, and visit Dodoka Skull Wall and Nagqu Grassland on the way. DAY10: Depart from Nagqu, visit Co'e, Phuntsok, Bamucuo, and finally arrive at Dangxiong, visiting the Holy Elephant Gate on the way. DAY11: Head from Dangxiong to Lhasa, pass Yangbajing, and finally arrive in Lhasa to end the trip. -------------------- Travel list: 👕 **Clothing preparation**: Jackets and thick coats are essential. The weather is still cold in February, so hats, scarves, and gloves are also essential. Sports shoes should be comfortable and non-slip, and you should also bring rain gear in case of possible rainy days. 🎒 **Carry-on Backpack**: The backpack is practical and can be used to carry snacks, water bottles and personal belongings for easy access while walking. 📲 **Electronic devices**: mobile phone, power bank, charging cable, and camera. Don’t forget to bring a selfie stick to capture the beautiful moments! 💳 **Documents and Finances**: Mainland China ID card, student ID card, driver's license, as well as cash and bank cards. You need to prepare all of these when you go out. 💊 **Common medicines**: cold medicine, gastrointestinal medicine, motion sickness medicine and Band-Aids, in case of emergency to ensure a safe journey. 🕶️ **Sun protection and skin care**: The ultraviolet rays on the plateau are strong, so you must bring sunscreen and sunglasses. There are also lip balms and moisturizing creams to keep your skin hydrated. -------------------- The delicious food in Chengdu, the red houses in Seda, and the scenery in Bacheng will surely make you linger on this journey. Look forward to your next trip!

Hi, guys! Want to explore Chengdu, Seda, and Barkham? This 11-day travel guide will help you easily explore the best routes and must-see attractions! Don't miss it! -- Itinerary overview: DAY1-DAY2: Arrive in Chengdu, travel through Wenchuan and Maerkang, and finally arrive in Guanyinqiao Town or Maerkang for a rest. DAY3: Travel from Guanyinqiao Town to Seda, visit the attractions, and then rest in Seda County. DAY4: Depart from Seda, visit Lake Kasa, Gesar Palace, and Xiluhai, and stay overnight in Dege. DAY5: Explore Dege Printing House, visit the village that was the first to be liberated in Tibet and the Qiangbalin Monastery, and stay overnight in Changdu. DAY6-DAY7: Cross the Luqu River, visit the Zizhu Monastery, and then travel to Dingqing. Then, travel through the Walar Monastery and the Three-Color Lake, and arrive in Bianba County. DAY8-DAY9: Depart from Bianba County, visit Lake Samtso and Mount Sapu, and then travel to Naqu City, visit the Dodokha Skull Wall and Naqu Grassland on the way. DAY10-DAY11: Visit Lake Tso-o, Lake Pongtso, Lake Yamdrok, and the Holy Elephant Gate, and finally arrive in Lhasa to end the journey. -- Attractions to visit: 🌟 Lake Namtso: A sacred lake in the Tibetan region, with stunning reflections of the snow-capped mountains 🔴 Seda County: A spectacular sight of red monasteries, unique 🏔️ Mount Sapu: A beautiful combination of snow-capped mountains and lakes, like a fairyland -- Packing list: 🧳 What to pack for your trip to Chengdu, Seda, and Barkham! 👗 Clothing: Down jacket, thermal underwear, long pants, comfortable sneakers to cope with the high altitude. 🎒 Accessories: Sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, as the high altitude sunlight is strong, you need to protect yourself. 💳 Documents: ID card, student card (if applicable), driver's license (if driving), don't forget! 🔋 Electronic products: Mobile phone, charger, power bank, and camera to record your wonderful moments. 💊 Medicines: Red Jingtian to prevent altitude sickness, cold medicine, and stomach medicine to be prepared in case of emergency. 🍫 Food: Chocolate, energy bars to replenish energy on the road, and a thermos to drink hot water comfortably. 💰 Cash: Bring some cash in case of emergency, as there may be no signal in some places, and it is more convenient to use cash. -- With the delicious food in Chengdu, the faith in Seda, and the natural beauty of Barkham, you will definitely have a memorable and moving experience!

Great winter travel destinations! 11-day tour of Chengdu, Seda, and Baqing. Enjoy the snow and experience Tibetan culture. This guide has everything you need! Save it now! -- 🏞️ Route overview: DAY 1–2: Depart and arrive in Chengdu. Pass through Wenchuan and Maerkang, and finally arrive in Guanyinqiao Town or Maerkang to rest. DAY 3: Head to Seda from Guanyinqiao Town and explore the charm of Seda County. DAY 4: Leave Seda County and visit Kasa Lake, King Gesar's Palace, and Yulong Lhatso (Xinlu Lake), and finally arrive in Dege. DAY 5: In Dege, visit Dege Parkhang Printing House, visit a typical village from the early days of Tibet's liberation, and pay homage to Qiangbalin Temple, then head to Chamdo. DAY 6–7: Leave Chamdo, pass through Leiwuqi and Zizhu Mountain (Zizhu Temple), and arrive in Dingqing, then continue to Wara Temple and the Three-color Lake, and finally arrive in Banbar County. DAY 8–10: Depart from Banbar County, visit Samco Lake and Mount Sapukonglagabo, then head to Biru County, Dodoka Skull Wall, and Nagqu Grassland, and finally arrive in Nagqu City, then continue to the Gate of Heaven of the Holy Elephant and Damxung. DAY 11: Leave Damxung, pass through Yangbajing, and finally arrive in Lhasa. -- Must-visit attractions: 🏔️ Namtso Lake: One of the three holy lakes in Tibet. The lake is clear and reflects the snow-capped mountains, like a fairyland. 🔴 Seda County: The dense red monk houses form a spectacular scene, as if the whole city is covered in a red coat. 🕍 Zizhu Temple: This ancient Bon temple is not only a center of faith, but also carries profound cultural and historical significance. -- Travel essentials: 👕 Clothing: Bring a warm coat, scarf, and gloves. Be prepared for the temperature difference between Chengdu and Baqing. 🎒 Backpack: Bring a backpack for easy travel. Pack your personal items and snacks. 📸 Photography equipment: Don't forget your camera and phone. The beautiful scenery of Seda is perfect for photos. 💳 Documents and money: Bring your ID card and cash. Safety is the top priority during your trip. 💊 Medicine: Bring some common medicines to help you cope with altitude sickness. 🕶️ Sun protection accessories: Sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen. The sun is strong in Baqing, so be sure to protect yourself. 🥤 Food and drink: Bring a water bottle and snacks so you won't be hungry or thirsty on the road. That's all! Get ready and go! Chengdu, Seda, and Baqing are waiting for you! -- The leisure of Chengdu, the mystery of Seda, and the magnificence of Baqing. The scenery and stories along the way will make you linger and make the trip worthwhile!

Chengdu, Seda, and Baqing: An 11-day tour guide is here! Experience the simple Tibetan style and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way. It is definitely worth your time! -------- 🚗Route suggestion: Explore the Western Sichuan Plateau and Tibetan Style🏔️ Day 1-2: Arrive in Chengdu and set off for Guanyinqiao Town/Maerkang. Enjoy the scenery of Wenchuan and Maerkang along the way and feel the magnificence of the Western Sichuan Plateau. Day 3: Depart from Guanyinqiao and head to Seda. Visit the mysterious Seda Buddhist College and admire the stunning red houses. Day 4: Depart from Seda County and visit Kasa Lake and King Gesar's Palace. Explore the natural beauty of Xinlu Lake (Yulong Lhatso) and finally arrive in Dege. Day 5-6: A pilgrimage to Dege Printing House. Travel through villages from the early days of Tibet's liberation and feel the vicissitudes of history. Visit Qambaling Monastery and arrive in Qamdo. Then head to Dingqing and visit the mysterious Zizhu Mountain (Zizhu Monastery) along the way. Day 7-8: Depart from Dingqing and visit Wara Monastery and the Three-color Lake. Stop at Banbar County and then head to the mysterious Sam Co Lake and Mount Sapukonglagabo. Day 9-10: Travel across the Nagqu Grassland and feel the vastness of the Northern Tibet Plateau. Pass by the Dodoka Skull Wall and reflect on the cycle of life. Finally, arrive at the sacred Elephant Gate and Damxung. Day 11: Depart from Damxung, pass by Yangbajing, and finally arrive in Lhasa. End this soul-stirring plateau journey.🙏 -------- Notes: 🚗 Airport transportation: You can take Metro Line 10 from Chengdu Shuangliu Airport to the city center, and then transfer to Line 3 to Chunxi Road. ❄️ February climate: Seda and Baqing are located on the plateau, and the temperature in February is low. Be sure to bring warm clothes. 🎉 Customs: When visiting the holy land of Seda, please respect local religious customs, dress appropriately, and avoid taking photos at will. 📶 Signal issues: The signal in Baqing may be unstable. It is recommended to bring a China Telecom SIM card, which has a relatively good signal. 💊 Health preparation: Altitude sickness is a common problem. Prepare Rhodiola and other medicines in advance and drink plenty of water. 🌞 Sun protection: The ultraviolet rays on the plateau are strong. Prepare sunscreen to protect your skin from damage. -------- Travel around Chengdu, Seda, and Baqing. Every moment is an unforgettable memory. Looking forward to the next trip!🌟

#2024Travel Review Yulong Lacuo Scenic Area, a natural treasure surrounded by green mountains, is like a paradise on earth. Standing here, the surrounding mountains are majestic and the lake is clear and transparent, like a huge mirror, reflecting the blue and white of the sky. Every scene here is amazing, and the picturesque scenery of mountains and rivers is fascinating, as if time has stopped here. 🏞️✨ The lake water is sparkling, and occasionally there are small fish swimming in the water, which makes people can't help but stop and enjoy the tranquility and beauty. The trails here are suitable for hiking. Along the way, you can not only enjoy the magnificent natural scenery, but also discover various rare plants and animals, allowing you to feel the vitality of nature. 🌿🐦

Come and encounter the mysterious and beautiful Sanlian Lake.✨ 🎆Sanlian Lake is like a treasure left by nature on earth. The clear waters of the lake are connected, like three brilliant sapphires embedded in the earth. Surrounded by green trees and swaying flowers, it forms a beautiful picture.🌸 💖Here, you can stroll along the lake, feel the gentle breeze, and listen to the sound of the lake gently lapping against the shore. The sun shines on the lake, creating shimmering waves, like countless stars twinkling. Whether you quietly enjoy the scenery or take photos with friends, Sanlian Lake will give you an unforgettable experience.💫 🎇There are also many places worth exploring nearby. You can go to the nearby hills to overlook the whole view of Sanlian Lake and feel the grandeur of nature; you can also taste the local specialties and let your taste buds immerse in this wonderful journey.😍

The all-wood structure of the Dege Printing House was built in 1729 and has never been electrified. Natural light is the only source of illumination, creating beautiful shadows. Every year, scriptures are carved and printed from early spring to late autumn, for about half a year. 📍Address: No. 13, Bagong Street, Dege County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province 🕙Opening hours: 8:30–11:30; 14:00–17:30 🎟️Tickets: CNY 50 (free for residents of cities that have provided aid, with ID) 🌟Highlights: 290,000 blocks of Tibetan scripture printing plates, some of which are the only ones in existence From the morning, the Dege Printing House is "busy," with a constant stream of people walking around it. Some walk alone, some with their families, and some, like us, walk without knowing why. It wasn't until we were about to leave that I asked a staff member and learned that walking around the printing house 1,111 times is considered a good deed. The craftsmen work diligently at their posts. The first floor is where the printing plates are washed, and the second floor is where they are stored. Light streams into the narrow corridor, illuminating the rows of tall cabinets filled with printing plates. It is said that there are 290,000 blocks of Tibetan scripture printing plates here, some of which are the only ones in existence. Up the narrow, almost vertical wooden stairs is an open area around the courtyard, the best-lit area in the printing house, where craftsmen carve and print scriptures. There are no lights here, but light is always being produced.

There is a secret place on the 317 National Highway. Although many people have seen it online, few have actually visited it. The road is difficult to travel, and the altitude is high. However, the three lakes under the sun, with three different colors, are truly breathtaking. Behind the lakes are snow-capped mountains, making the scene even more beautiful. So, I decided to go. 📍Address: Cuotong Village, Cuoa Town, Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture (Navigation: Cuotong Lake) 🚉Transportation: Self-driving 🚗 (It takes 3 hours to go up and down the mountain) ⏳Duration: Half a day 💰Cost: Free 🆓 for now, but the road is under construction 🚧 and may charge fees later 📝Tips: The road is in poor condition, so an SUV is recommended, but sedans can also make it. The road is very difficult to drive, so an experienced driver is needed. (Check if the mountain is closed in winter and pay attention to the opening time) When I was about to reach the foot of the mountain, it started to rain. The mountain road was very muddy, with hairpin turns and cliffs on the left. I was so scared that I felt my soul was about to leave my body. Under such unfavorable conditions, it started to snow as the altitude increased. The snow got heavier, and the road was almost invisible. I met some cars coming down the mountain, probably because they didn't wait for the sunny day. After discussing with my friends, we decided to go up the mountain. We thought we might as well try our luck since we were already there. Considering the snow time, we should be able to go down before the road freezes. When the navigation showed that there were 400 meters left, a miracle happened. The blue sky slowly appeared. When I parked, one side was the blue sky, and the other was the snow under the clouds. I was so shocked that I almost forgot the discomfort of the 4,600-meter altitude. Everyone was eager to go to the lake. I told myself to stay calm and slowly got out of the car, put on my clothes, and wore my hat (Make sure to protect your head from the wind at high altitudes, even in the sun). When I reached the viewing platform, the sun had already illuminated two lakes. The blue, light blue, and green lakes were lined up, sparkling in the sunlight. It was obvious that there were very few tourists here, and it felt like a secret place. It was so quiet that I could only hear my breathing. Since it was a critical time to adapt to the altitude, I didn't go to the lakeside (It takes about 30 minutes to walk back and forth. Although the road is easy to walk, the altitude difference is still one or two hundred meters. Later, I proved that I was wise). I was already very happy to see the lakes from the viewing platform. About half an hour later, I felt a little dizzy, so I went back to the car to take some oxygen and replenish my energy. When I got out of the car again, the place was completely bathed in sunlight. I felt so lucky.

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.

⛱️Must-see attractions: Dege Parkhang Sutra-Printing House, Larung Gar Buddhist Academy, Lianbaoyeze 🍲Must-try foods: Yak meat hot pot, Chengdu hot pot, Zigong cuisine 🏨Accommodation tips: Hanting Hotel (Kangding Xinduqiao Branch) -> Thank U Hotel (Ganzi White Tower Park Yalong Wetland Park Branch) -> Seda Le Ke Er Tibetan-style Homestay Hotel -> Dege Yulong Hotel 🚄Transportation tips: Self-driving is more convenient, the Tank 300 is great 💰️Overall cost: Around CNY 5,000

||Sometimes, you want to experience the beauty of Western Sichuan, but you don't want to go to the crowded popular attractions? 🤔 Today, I'm going to share with you some lesser-known routes to help you discover a different side of Western Sichuan! 💡 Recommended Lesser-Known Routes - *Dege Parkhang Sutra-Printing House: This is a treasure trove of Tibetan culture, where the ancient woodblock printing technique is still preserved. It's a place where culture and nature are perfectly combined. - Seda Larung Gar Buddhist Academy: Although it's becoming more popular, the Buddhist Academy under the starlit night sky in Seda is absolutely stunning. The unique red house complex offers a strong visual impact. 🌞 Travel Tips This route is quieter than the traditional Western Sichuan route, making it perfect for those who love to capture cultural and documentary-style photos. Remember to bring extra memory cards! 📸

Today's itinerary: Garze Town - Que'er Mountain Snow Peak Viewing Platform - Yulonglacuo Scenic Area - Dege County - Dege Printing House - Baiyu County. During the itinerary, there are also Cuo Tong Cui Lake, Dangzhencuo, and Cuo'a Town Zaxi Chi Lin, etc. Due to the rain at the time of departure, see Figure 10 for the difference between Cui Lake on a rainy day and a sunny day, so this point was cancelled. The weather forecast for early morning at 5:00 am is that Garze will be sunny from sunrise to 9:00 am. Our group waited at Yagonlin Wetland Park for the sunrise at Zhuoda La Mountain. The weather in the plateau changes rapidly. When it was just getting light, it seemed that there was still a chance, but at 7:16 am, the time of sunrise, the sky became cloudy and it started to drizzle. After breakfast, it rained all the way. No matter how fast the car was, when we arrived at the Que'er Mountain Viewing Platform near noon, the weather was kind to us and the rain stopped. The howling wind blew away the fog, revealing the true face of Que'er Mountain. Everyone was excited. Yulonglacuo Scenic Area is a few minutes away from the viewing platform. Because it was cloudy, when we arrived at the lakeside, Que'er Mountain was again obscured by clouds and mist. The color of the lake water on a cloudy day is also slightly faster. We didn't stay here for long before it started to rain again. Although it was half price, 70 yuan is still relatively expensive. At 3:00 pm, we arrived at the Dege Printing House. The masters of the printing house did not rest. We watched the entire printing process, from carving the plates, cutting the paper, printing and drying, and washing the plates. It was very interesting. As the fifth day's plan was to walk the "Ganbai Line", we did not stay in Dege for long and headed to Baiyu County for accommodation. Tips:1. Choose from Yulonglacuo, Cuo Tong Cui Lake and Dangzhencuo. The latter two are currently free of charge, but both are under construction. It is not too far away to collect tickets. On a sunny day, it is recommended to choose Cuo Tong Cui Lake. It is three lakes connected together, and it is only beautiful under a sunny sky. Yulonglacuo can take pictures of Que'er Mountain and the lake surface. The color of the lake water will change with the weather. The three attractions are within an hour's drive. 2. When navigating to the Printing House, do not navigate to "Printing House Underground Garage", it is a pit! It is a distance from the Printing House, and the garage is very difficult to park, especially for off-road vehicles. Navigate directly to the Printing House, the temple has its own underground garage, 5 yuan per hour, 0.5 yuan extra per hour. 3. From Dege County to Baiyu County, it is not recommended to take National Highway 215 or Wangyan Section on rainy days, there are too many falling rocks, driving is heart-pounding. Que'er Mountain Glacier Viewing Platform

Dege County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Yulong Lhamo (also known as Xinluhai) - I didn't know that Sichuan's lakes are as beautiful as New Zealand's! 📍Yulong Lhamo is a plateau glacial lake. In Tibetan, "Yulong" means "to fall in love", and "Lhamo" translates to "sacred lake" in Chinese. There is a beautiful legend here - it is said that Zhu Mu, the beloved concubine of Gesar, the hero of the famous Tibetan epic "The Gesar Saga", came to the lake one day. She was so attracted by the beautiful scenery and peaceful environment that she lingered by the lake, unable to leave. Her heart, filled with love for the beautiful mountains and rivers, suddenly sank to the bottom of the lake. Later generations named the lake Yulong Lhamo in memory of Zhu Mu, which means "sacred lake of love at first sight". 📌Yulong Lhamo is located on the side of the Sichuan-Tibet Highway 317, only 1% of people know about it. It is 98 kilometers from Ganzi County and 100 kilometers from Dege County. The altitude is 4040 meters. When driving from Ganzi County to Dege County, before passing through the Que'er Mountain Tunnel, you will see a road sign on the side of the road that says "Yulong Lhamo". Just drive straight in. It is quite far from Chengdu, so there are not many tourists along the way, which is very comfortable. 📌Love at first sight, the sacred lake Yulong Lhamo is a famous glacial lake in Ganzi Prefecture. The water source is supplied by the Que'er Mountain Glacier and snowmelt. The stream flowing out of the lake is one of the sources of the Cuoqu River. 📍Location: Dege County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, under Que'er Mountain on the North Sichuan-Tibet Highway G317, altitude 4040 meters 💵Entrance fee: 20 or 30 yuan/person, possibly depending on the season. I have been there several times, and the price is different each time. The scenic area is not fully developed, and the basic facilities are not perfect. 🚶🏻Walking: There is a free parking lot after entering the scenic area. It takes about 10 minutes to walk from the entrance to the lake. ❌There is no restaurant in the scenic area. It is recommended to bring your own dry food, or you can dine in Manigango Town, which is more than ten kilometers away. 💯Very few people can get here, but it is really beautiful. Snow-capped mountains, forests, and lakes are still very primitive. It takes more than ten minutes to walk to the lake. The whole lake is milky green, and the snow-capped mountain in front is the famous Que'er Mountain. ✅Accommodation: There are no hotels in the scenic area. You can stay in a hotel in Manigango Town, which is about 12 kilometers from the scenic area. However, it is recommended to stay in Ganzi County (the night view of Ganzi White Pagoda is also a beautiful sight). There are many delicious foods and a good environment. You can see the sunrise from the place where you stay. ✅Weather: The weather in the plateau is unstable, with a large temperature difference between morning and evening. Be sure to bring enough thick clothes. The ultraviolet rays are also very strong, so sunscreen is very important.

Que'er Mountain on the 317 Sichuan-Tibet Northern Route, the cloudy snow mountain has another kind of beauty||Sichuan-Tibet Self-driving D2—D4 Route: Seda—Ganzi—Dege Pictures 1-5 Que'er Mountain and Yulong La Cuo on the way from Ganzi to Dege You can see it by the side of the 317 highway, it feels like entering a different world from afar Que'er Mountain, the first danger of Sichuan-Tibet, the main peak is 6168 meters above sea level, the fourth highest peak of the Hengduan Mountains. Although the weather is sometimes sunny and sometimes rainy, you can't see the top of the snow mountain, but the clouds and mist are more like a fairyland. In addition to Que'er Mountain, the scenery on the 317 is quite diverse, grasslands, lakes, mountains, canyons, and many types of mountains. Sometimes it feels like crossing the narrow and steep Three Gorges, sometimes it has the elegance of the deep autumn colored forest in the north, and the vastness and desolation of Xinjiang. There are many wild macaques on this road, and they are bold. When you stop the car, they will jump on the hood, and they will talk back when you say something to them.

Check-in point, don't miss Macau. Take beautiful photos, view, whether it's still photos or moving videos. It is recommended to bring an umbrella. The weather is hot, sometimes it rains, there are quite a lot of people. It is recommended to prepare a tripod to take photos to get beautiful photos from many angles. Guaranteed not to be disappointed. Anyone who comes to Macau must not miss this check-in photo point. I highly recommend it.

Cuotong Cui Lake, also known as "Cuo'a Cui Lake" or "Cuotong Sanlian Lake", is located in Cuotong Village, Cuo'a Town, Dege County, Ganzi Prefecture. It is composed of three connected, irregularly shaped lakes of different sizes, with an altitude of about 4,600 meters. This is a high-altitude tourist attraction that is currently under development. Many people call it a secret place. It feels like being in a fairy tale world. The scenery here is beautiful, with lakes like jade, like sapphires inlaid in the mountains! Cuo'a Town is the first stop from Ganzi County to Dege County. It is said to be the territory of Ling Gesar Wang's uncle Cuotong. Cuotong Village, Cuo'a Town is located next to National Highway 317, with an altitude of 3,700 meters. It is about 18 kilometers from Cuotong Village, Cuo'a Town to Cuotong Cui Lake, and it takes about 1 hour to drive. Use Gaode Navigation Cuotong Cui Lake (Sanlian Lake) to get there. Although Cuotong Cui Lake is not far from the Sichuan-Tibet Line 317 National Highway, the journey is about 18 kilometers, and vehicles can reach directly, but due to the high altitude (about 4,600 meters), it needs to climb (rise) nearly 900 meters. The road up is basically a dirt road or gravel road, with many "bomb" pits, steep slopes, no guardrails on the side of the road, sharp bends and dangerous roads. Fortunately, the road is still wide and there is no pressure to make mistakes. The plank road from the top of the mountain to the lake has been built and can be walked from the top of the mountain to the lake through the plank road to watch Cuotong Cui Lake up close. Due to the poor road conditions on the mountain, it is recommended that vehicles with low chassis, small displacement and poor off-road performance should be cautious. The newly built gate of the scenic spot, the scenic spot has not yet charged tickets, and maybe tickets will be required to enter the scenic spot in the near future, so friends who want to go should hurry up...

It is famous in Aden, Daocheng in southwestern Sichuan, and to the north there is the secret place "Xinluhai" in Ganzi, which is also known as Yulong Lacuo. It is on the roadside from Garze to Dege, just beside the 317 National Highway, just a few hundred meters away from the national highway, between Garze County and Derge County. Yulong Lacuo is surrounded by mountain peaks. The tops of the mountains are covered with snow and sparkle in the sunlight. The water of the lake is crystal clear, with the breeze blowing and the waves sparkling. The woods beside the lake are colorful and change colors with the seasons. The altitude here is about 4,000 meters. There are cattle grazing leisurely, clear lakes, snow-capped mountains in the distance, and dense forests surrounding it. Everything is so beautiful that it takes your breath away and makes you want to cry! Yulong Lacuo is a famous glaciated lake in Ganzi. The color of the lake is cyan. There is also a beautiful legend about this lake. It is the sacred lake that Zhu Mu, Princess Gesar, loved. It carries many romantic stories and is a mysterious place. It is recommended to bring some food and drink with you as the canteen may not always be open. This place is really beautiful. When I came here, I met two cute local cowherd boys. I chatted with them for a long time, sharing the legend about the lake with us, and chatting about daily life. I like the natural scenery here and the simplicity of the people here! There are fragrant highland barley cakes with a crispy texture, yak jerky that is chewy, and the characteristic Tibetan yogurt, which is sweet and sour. In addition to Yulong Lacuo Lake, there are also grasslands around where you can ride horses and feel the free wind. But it should be noted that In high-altitude areas, you must be prepared for altitude sickness in advance and bring relevant medicines. Keep warm and bring enough warm clothes. Respect local religious and cultural customs. Take good care of the environment and don't destroy and throw away garbage at will. Understand the local weather in advance and plan your trip accordingly.

Hey friends~ Today I will take you to travel to that incredibly beautiful fairyland - Guru Lacuo, a loving lake that will make you fall in love with it at first sight and make your heart beat fast💖! 🌟When I first saw it, I felt like I had stepped into a fairy tale world. The lake was so deep and pure blue, like nature’s most proud sapphire inlaid between the mountains💎. Looking up, you can see cotton candy-like white clouds wandering leisurely, and looking down, you can see a dreamlike picture of emerald green vegetation and wild flowers interwoven🌳🌼. Although the altitude of 4,900 meters made me breathless occasionally, the shock and beauty made me feel that it was all worth it 🏔️💨! 🚗【Traffic Tips】Remember to navigate to Qiaza Village in Cuomei County, a visual feast is about to begin! The Chalatuogang Snow Mountain that we encountered on the road is simply the beauty of nature, so beautiful that it makes people tremble😍. Although the road is a little bumpy, the moment you arrive, all the waiting becomes insignificant~ 🛏️【Accommodation Tips】The accommodation in the village is simple, but if you want a more comfortable experience, you might as well choose to stay in Cuomei County, set off early in the morning, and have no pressure to go back and forth on the same day. Or, like me, go camping on the go! Sleep with nature under the starry sky. Remember to bring a warm sleeping bag and a windproof tent, as well as your 4G signal, to share this unique beauty with friends far away. 💖Environmental protection tips: I met the village party secretary by chance, and I was deeply touched by his awe and love for nature. Each of us travelers should be the guardian of this pure land, leaving no trace of garbage and taking away only beautiful memories🚯🌍. 🌟【Highlights】: A small secret place with exclusive tranquility, and a few waves of tourists every day, making this beautiful scenery even more precious😃. The enthusiasm of the villagers is as warm as the sun. Need help? They are always on call to make your trip more secure 😘. There are also sunny days in the rainy season, and the sunshine in the afternoon is just right, which is a great time to take photos and check in, making your circle of friends more beautiful 📸🌞. 😅【Warm Reminder】: In remote areas, please bring enough dry food, water and snacks🍔🥤. The weather in the plateau is changeable, so you must wear warm clothing to keep beautiful without freezing. When using the toilet in the wild, please be a friend of nature and plan your personal needs in advance 😉. Well, that’s all I have to share about my adventure in Gurulacuo. Are you already eager to set off? Remember to bring a good mood, and see you by the lake! 🌟

Just after leaving the house, I found a magnificent temple by the roadside... I checked the map and found out its name is Dongga Temple. Feeling inspired, I decided to go up the mountain. The scenery at the top is really beautiful, with a vast sky and clouds, offering an unobstructed view. The temple exudes a sense of understated luxury from the outside to the inside, with various statues of deities inside... There were also lamas chanting scriptures with great concentration. Although it has been around for 500 years, compared to the bustling F Academy, it feels a bit obscure... even a bit desolate... But I quite like it here, with its peaceful and serene atmosphere... The national road from Seda to Ganzi completely exceeded my expectations... No wonder some people call Route 317 the 'Road of Hell.' Not only is it at a high altitude, but it's also full of sharp, winding mountain roads with cliffs on one side and steep slopes on the other, making the drive heart-pounding... But the scenery is truly beautiful, offering an endless view at the peak... Snow-capped mountains, grasslands, lakes, surrounded by clouds and mist. I deeply regret not bringing my pocket camera to capture it all... The section from Ganzi to Dege was not favored by the weather, with some drizzling rain, so I couldn't capture the best state of Yulong Laco (Xinlu Lake) as I passed by... The rain got heavier and heavier, so instead of rushing, I decided to have a cup of roaming coffee ... Today's insights: * I didn't do enough research. After leaving Seda, I should have taken the Ganbai Road to see Yaqing Temple. I hesitated at the intersection but ultimately took Route 317, mainly considering the electric car's range... * The second hesitation today was at Zhashi Teling Temple, whether to take a detour to Cuotong Cui Lake. The guide said the road conditions were poor, and I was worried about tire damage from gravel and the low ground clearance... So I gave up, feeling a bit regretful... An off-road vehicle would have been better.