Stumbled into Shenzuo Village in Western Sichuan and Encountered a Real-Life Shangri-La
Stumbled into Shenzuo Village in Western Sichuan and Encountered a Real-Life Shangri-La
If Western Sichuan is a pure land favored by God, then Shenzuo Village is a hidden corner within it. It is hidden in Charie Township, Aba County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, with an average altitude of 3,100m. It is like a paradise forgotten by the world, waiting for those who are destined to uncover its mysterious veil. This guide will take you to experience the unique charm of Shenzuo Village in an immersive way.
Itinerary
- One-day tour: Depart from Aba County in the morning, enjoy the magnificent plateau scenery of Western Sichuan along the way, and after arriving at Shenzuo Village, stroll through the village to feel the Tibetan customs. Taste Tibetan cuisine at noon, go to Shenzuo Lake in the afternoon to enjoy the lake and mountain scenery, and return to Aba County in the evening.
- Two-day tour: Day 1 Depart from Chengdu, passing through Wenchuan, Li County and other places to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Western Sichuan, and arrive at Aba County for rest in the evening; Day 2 Go to Shenzuo Village, visit Shenzuo Village in the morning, taste Tibetan cuisine at noon, hike in the primeval forest in the afternoon, and return to Aba County in the evening.
Transportation Guide
- Self-driving: Starting from Chengdu, the whole journey is about 450 km, which takes 6–8 hrs. First, take the Chengdu-Guan Expressway to Dujiangyan, then transfer to National Highway 317, passing through Wenchuan, Li County and other places, and finally arrive at Shangrangtang Township, Rangtang County, where Shenzuo Village is located. The scenery along the way is beautiful, especially the Miyaluo Red Leaf Scenic Area, with red leaves all over the mountains, which is intoxicating.
- Chartered car: If you don't want to drive by yourself, chartering a car is also a good choice, which can allow you to enjoy the scenery along the way more freely, and you don't have to worry about the fatigue of driving, but the cost is relatively high.
- Public transportation: There are long-distance buses from Chengdu to Aba County, but there are few shifts. After arriving at Aba County, you need to transfer to local transportation to Shenzuo Village, which takes a long time and is troublesome to transfer, so it is not recommended.
Must-Visit Attractions
- Shenzuo Village: There are only more than 70 households. The buildings are full of typical Tibetan style, and there are many century-old Tibetan houses. Backed by alpine meadows and facing the forest across the river, here, you can experience the simple life of Tibetans and feel the tranquility of being isolated from the world.
- Shenzuo Lake: The lake is as clear as a mirror, reflecting the blue sky, white clouds and the surrounding mountains, like a dreamlike place. Every summer, wildflowers bloom wantonly by the lake, with various colors, which is an excellent place for taking photos and checking in.
- Primeval forest: The trails in the forest are winding and full of mystery, which is very suitable for hiking and adventure. Many kinds of wild animals inhabit the forest. If you are lucky, you can see herds of deer running and birds flying.
Food Recommendations
- Tibetan Tsampa: A special delicacy of Shenzuo Village. The main raw material is highland barley flour, which is served with buttered tea, yak meat, etc. The mellow aroma of highland barley flour and the rich flavor of buttered tea are perfectly integrated, full of Tibetan flavor.
- Yak meat hot pot: Select fresh yak meat, with potatoes, tofu and other ingredients. The soup base made from beef bones is rich and delicious, and the yak meat is tender and nutritious. In the cold plateau, a pot will warm you up and make you delicious.
- Wild mushroom stew: Shenzuo Village is rich in various wild mushrooms, such as matsutake and boletus. The locals make them into stews, which are original and nutritious.
Accommodation Guide
- Shenzuo Inn: Located in the center of the village, it is convenient to travel. It is a family-style inn run by the local government. The rooms are warmly decorated, integrating traditional Tibetan elements and modern minimalist design. It has an independent bathroom and heating facilities. The owner will also prepare authentic Tibetan meals.
- Yunding Villa: Located on a high hillside, it has a wide view and can overlook the entire village and the distant snow-capped mountains. It has a viewing platform, which is a good place to watch the sunrise and sunset. The rooms are built with environmentally friendly materials, which are safe and comfortable.
Travel Tips
- Prevention of altitude sickness: Take anti-altitude sickness drugs in advance, such as Rhodiola, and avoid strenuous exercise after arrival to give your body time to adapt to the plateau environment.
- Keep warm: The temperature difference between day and night is large, even in summer, you should bring a thick coat to prevent catching a cold at night.
- Green travel: Take care of this pure land, do not litter, and maintain the beauty and purity of Shenzuo Village.
- Respect customs: When entering temples or religious places, abide by relevant regulations, dress appropriately, and do not make loud noises.