The Ultimate Western Sichuan Travel Route

This summer, you must visit Western Sichuan! Snow-capped mountains, grasslands, flower seas, and lakes—every shot is postcard-perfect. Sharing my 5-day off-the-beaten-path loop itinerary that avoids crowds while deeply experiencing Western Sichuan's beauty~ 🚗 Trip Highlights: Day 1: Chengdu - Kangding - Honghaizi (Red Lake) - Gedilamu (Sky City) - Xinduqiao Day 2: Xinduqiao - Quanhuatan (Terraced Pools) - Lenggacuo (Cold Lake) - Shangmuju Village Day 3: Shangmuju Village - Zimei Pass - Moon Lake - Xinduqiao Day 4: Xinduqiao - Tagong Grassland - Moshi Park (Mysterious Stone Park) - Yala Snow Mountain Viewpoint - Danba Day 5: Danba - Shuangqiao Valley (Double Bridge Valley) in Siguniang Mountain - Chengdu 💡 Practical Tips: 1. Navigate to "Jiala" for Honghaizi. On clear days, you can see Gongga Mountain's reflection—bring a thick jacket as winds are strong. 2. Gedilamu is best accessed by SUV. Evening light is perfect for photos of the carousel against snowy mountains—pin "Sky City Station". 3. Choose horseback riding (¥200/person) to ascend Lenggacuo. Bring oxygen tanks! Wear a hat for warmth by the windy lake. 4. Drive directly to Zimei Pass summit. Best time for golden sunset on mountains: 4-6 PM. 5. Moon Lake entry: ¥25. Bring camping gear for lakeside picnics. 🍲 Food Recs: - Kangding: Try Tibetan-style yak hotpot at Snowland Ecological Yak Meat Hotpot (Yanhedong Road Branch). - Xinduqiao: Dengfenglai Yak Meat Hotpot (by G318 Highway). - Danba: Tibetan Fragrance Local Products (for wild mushrooms and matsutake). 🚗 Transport Tips: - Rent a 4WD for self-driving. Carry snow chains for high-altitude roads. - Avoid strenuous activity at high elevations; pack glucose tablets and ibuprofen. - Gas stations are sparse—plan fuel stops carefully. 🏔️ Essentials: Windproof jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, hydrating masks, power bank, disposable bedsheets. Western Sichuan Pitfalls: Avoid suspiciously cheap tours! Negotiate horseback riding fees upfront. Carry cash—some areas have poor signal.