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Chengdu to Yading Trekking: Yading, often referred to as the Shambala of Tibet, is a mesmerizing destination known for its exotic beauty and untouched landscapes. “Shambala” translates to Shangri-La, symbolizing a lost paradise on earth. While Yading has long captivated travelers, its remote location previously made it difficult to access. Fortunately, with the opening of a new airport, the journey to Yading has become much more convenient. Hiking in Yading offers an extraordinary experience on the Tibetan highlands, where picturesque valleys, turquoise lakes, and majestic snow-capped peaks await. You can choose between a day hike within the Yading Nature Reserve or an extensive week-long trekking adventure. Find detailed information about hiking in Yading below.
Chengdu City, Sichuan Province
Upon arriving in Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province and the hometown of the Panda, you will be greeted by your local guide at the airport and transferred to your hotel. In the afternoon, enjoy a visit to People’s Park and the Wide and Narrow Alleys, offering a glimpse into the vibrant local culture. Your accommodation for the night will be a 4-star hotel in Chengdu.
After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a scenic drive along the Chengdu-Yaan Expressway to Ya’an, famously known as the Rainy City. The journey takes about two and a half hours, during which you can admire the rural scenery of the western Sichuan Plain. The day includes visits to the ancient town of Shangli and the panda sanctuary in Bifengxia near Ya’an. You will stay overnight at a hotel in Ya’an.
Following breakfast, drive from Ya’an to Danba, located at an altitude of 1900 meters. Along the way, visit the historic Dengchigou Catholic Church in the Baoxing Panda Reserve, where French biologist David discovered the giant panda in 1869. Continue the journey over the Jiajin Shan Mountain to Danba, home to the Jiarong (Gyarong) Tibetans. Explore Jiaju Village, known for its unique and picturesque Tibetan residences. Overnight accommodation will be in Danba.
Start the day with breakfast at the hotel, then visit Suopo Village, renowned for its ancient block towers. After lunch in Danba, proceed to Zhonglu Village for a beautiful hike offering panoramic views and an opportunity to experience local Tibetan life. You will stay overnight at a boutique hotel in Zhonglu.
After breakfast, drive through Bamei and Tagong on your way to Xinduqiao. Visit the Tagong Stupa and Tagong Monastery, with the possibility of seeing the holy Yala Mountain (5820m) on clear days. Arrive at Xinduqiao, a significant town at the intersection of the North and South Sichuan-Tibet Highway. If the weather permits, explore the main peak of Mt. Gongga (7556m). Your overnight stay will be in Xinduqiao.
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before driving through the Hengduan Mountain Ranges to reach Litang, also known as the “highland city” at 4014 meters. The route offers stunning views of glaciers, ice-covered mountains, and highland lakes. In Litang, visit the Litang Monastery, built in 1580, and the birthplace of the 7th Dalai Lama. You will stay overnight in Litang.
After breakfast, drive to Riwa via Daocheng, passing through Mt. Haizi Shan, known for its fascinating terrain and glacial formations. Visit Bangpu Monastery, one of the oldest temples in Daocheng with over 900 years of history. Arrive at the Yading Nature Reserve, home to the three sacred Tibetan mountains: Chenresigi (Avalokitesvara, 6032m), Jambeyang (Manjusri, 5958m), and Chanadorje (Vajrapani, 5958m). Overnight accommodation will be in Riwa or Shangri-La.
Today start 2 days Trekking in Yading. We begin your day with breakfast at the hotel, then drive 30 kilometers to Longlongba (3770m), the entrance of Yading Nature Reserve. Start your trek at Chonggu Monastery (4000m), heading towards Chenresing Mountain and Dumu Lake (Milk Lake). Visit Milk Lake and Five Color Lake, then trek up to the pass (4665m) to explore Yading’s natural beauty. Camp overnight in a tent at 4480 meters, with the first day’s trek covering approximately 16 kilometers over 8-9 hours.
After breakfast at the campsite, continue trekking to enjoy stunning views of Mt. Chenresing, Pearl Lake (4140m), and back to Chonggu Monastery. Return to the park entrance at Longlongba and take a bus to Riwa. Overnight accommodation will be in Riwa, with the second day’s trek also covering approximately 16 kilometers over 8-9 hours.
After breakfast, drive from Riwa to Xinduqiao via Litang. Spend the day driving through the breathtaking landscapes of the Tibetan Plateau. Overnight accommodation will be in Xinduqiao.
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before driving to Kangding. Visit Kangding Monastery and have lunch in Kangding, then continue the drive back to Chengdu. You will stay overnight at a 4-star hotel in Chengdu.
After breakfast, transfer to Chengdu airport for your departure, bidding farewell to your guide as you conclude your journey.
