Things to do in Daocheng County

Daocheng County · 64.3km from downtown

11.6k reviews

Daocheng Yading, also known as Yading Nature Reserve, is known by locals as Aden Scenic Area. Located in the southern part of Daocheng County in Ganzi Prefecture, it is mainly composed of three mountains, Xiannairi, Yangmaiyong, and Xianuoduoji, as well as surrounding rivers, lakes, and alpine meadows. There are not only magnificent and sacred snow-capped mountains in the scenic area, but also vast meadows, colorful forests, and blue crystal clear lakes. Hiking on foot like the local Tibetans is a better way to experience the scenery in Yading. However, due to the high altitude of the Aden Protected Area, the entire walk still requires considerable physical fitness.

No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Daocheng Yading

Yading Village

6

Daocheng County · 64.9km from downtown

434 reviews

Yading Village is located southwest of Shangri-La Town and is renowned as the "Last Shangri-La." Here, you can admire pristine and unspoiled natural views—crystal-clear lakes, snow-capped peaks, vast grasslands, grazing livestock, blue skies, and white clouds—all so breathtakingly beautiful that they captivate your heart. It's also one of the most beloved natural photography spots for photographers. When visiting Yading Village, the first thing to note is altitude sickness—be sure to prepare the necessary medications. From the village, you can gaze upon sacred snow-capped mountains in the distance, with light-green lakes nestled at their feet. The emerald grasslands are dotted with herds of cattle and sheep, painting a picture of natural beauty before your eyes, like a paradise on earth. While soaking in the stunning scenery, set up your camera to capture this heavenly place. These photos will undoubtedly become cherished memories you'll revisit time and time again.

No. 2 of Best Things to Do in Daocheng Yading

Milk Lake

5.1

Daocheng County · 74.2km from downtown

624 reviews

Milk Lake is nestled in a mountain col at the foot of Yangmaiyong Snow Peak inDaocheng Yading, at an elevation of approx. 4,500m. It is an alpine lake formed by ancient glaciers. The lake is small, with an area of approx. 0.5 hectares, and its outline resembles a water droplet. The lakeshore is surrounded by alpine meadows, and further out and up are bare mountains, snow peaks, and vast glaciers. The outer edge of the lake water has a ring of milky white, which gradually transitions to light green and emerald blue towards the center of the lake; on windless, sunny days, the reflection of the snow-capped mountains is clearly visible on the water surface, and the name "Milk Lake" comes from that milky white edge of the lake water. Milk Lake is located in the latter half of the Yading long-distance hiking route: starting from Luorong Pasture, you need to climb along the mountain path for a one-way distance of approx. 5 km and an elevation gain of several hundred m to reach it; a short distance further up is the higher Five-Color Lake, and most hikers combine the two lakes into one trip.

Daocheng County · 69.3km from downtown

Xiannairi Peak

4.9

4.8/5

288 reviews

Xian Nai Ri is one of the three main Aden mountains in Aden, found in the Yading Nature Reserve in Daocheng County. It is the north peak of the snow-capped mountains of the "Sanhuzhu", and the peaks do not accumulate snow all year round. Around Xiannai, there are mountain lakes, glaciers and trees that compose a beautiful landscape. It is a paradise for photographers. Visitors can admire the shrines of Mount Kinabalu at the viewing platform on the Xian Nai Ri. They can take photos that look like wallpapers and the beauty here is incredible.

Selected for Fall Viewing Attractions in Ganzi Prefecture

Sichuan Haizishan National Nature Reserve

Sichuan Haizishan National Nature Reserve

4.7

Daocheng County · 44.6km from downtown

126 reviews

Sichuan Haizishan National Nature Reserve is located between Litang County and Daocheng, with an average altitude of 4,500 m. It is one of the largest ancient glacial remains on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and is famous for the "DaochengAncient Ice Cap." Sichuan Haizishan National Nature Reserve features a unique view consisting of stone rivers and stone seas formed by gravel of various sizes, as well as diverse glacial lakes (haizi). There are 1,145 haizi of varying sizes scattered across the mountains, sparkling like thousands of diamonds. Their density is rare in the world, which is how Sichuan Haizishan National Nature Reserve got its name.

Daocheng County · 73.6km from downtown

Five-Color Lake

4.6

4.5/5

174 reviews

The Tibetan language name of Wuse Lake is: Mudicuo, located above the milk sea, between Xiannai and Yangmaiyong. Named for producing five different colors under the sun. After a steep slope on the right side of the milk sea, the lake is round and the lake is clear. Under the sunlight, it reflects the multicolored light, which is spectacular. The five-color sea is the god lake in the hearts of local people. The Buddhist scriptures praised the lake, saying it was in the same name as the Tibetan sheep.

Daocheng County · 72.8km from downtown

Luorong Pasture

4.6

4.7/5

273 reviews

Luorong Cattle Farm is one of the famous spots in the Yading Nature Reserve. It is a pasture where Tibetans graze nearby. The Luorong Cattle Farm is backed by three Shenshan Mountains and is a great place to see the Three Dragons. The cattle farm is surrounded by rolling alpine meadows. In the spring and summer seasons, wildflowers bloom in the meadows, and the mountains and plains are very spectacular. The Gongga River passes through the cattle farm, and the flocks of cattle and sheep graze leisurely on the riverside and on the hillside, creating a harmonious scene.

No. 12 of Night Attractions in Ganzi Prefecture

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4.5

4.5/5

74 reviews

Zunsheng Tower Forest is located in Daocheng County, Ganzi Prefecture, Sichuan Province, and is a Tibetan Buddhist holy site full of religious and cultural significance. It consists of over 100 white pagodas, symbolizing auspicious numbers in Buddhism, arranged neatly and with a magnificent presence. This is not only a place for pilgrims but also an ideal destination for tourists to experience Tibetan culture. It is surrounded by magnificent natural scenery, where the blue sky and white clouds complement the white pagodas, creating a unique visual experience. Visitors can stroll here to appreciate the architectural details and the surrounding natural beauty. In the early morning and at dusk, the sunlight shines on the white pagodas, presenting different light and shadow effects, which is an unmissable opportunity for photography enthusiasts. Zunsheng Tower Forest is not far from the town of Daocheng, and transportation is convenient. Visitors are advised to respect local religious customs, keep quiet, and be mindful of environmental protection. Due to the high altitude, visitors should be aware of altitude sickness. Whether for cultural exploration or sightseeing, this place offers a rich experience for visitors.

Daocheng County · 1.2km from downtown

Daocheng County · 67.6km from downtown

Daocheng Yading - Zhaguanbeng

4.5

4.9/5

41 reviews

"Zhaguanbeng" means "the end of the big cliff" in Tibetan, "Zhaguan" means "the practice hole on the top of the mountain", and "beng" means the tail, which means the dam under the rock. Legend has it that there were eminent monks practicing in the cliff cave, and then a temple (Zhaguan Temple) was built according to the cave.

Daocheng Yading Scenic Area - Chonggu Temple

4.5

Daocheng County · 68km from downtown

186 reviews

Daocheng Yading Scenic Area - Chonggu Temple is located within Daocheng Yading in Daocheng, Ganzi Prefecture, Sichuan Province, China, at an altitude of approx. 3,880m, and sits at the foot of Mount Xiannairi, one of the three sacred mountains of Daocheng Yading. Daocheng Yading Scenic Area - Chonggu Temple means "temple under the lake" in Tibetan. It is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, forests, and meadows, offering picturesque scenery. The temple features an elegant architectural style that blends traditional Tibetan architectural art. It houses many Buddha statues and is a popular place of worship, serving as an important pilgrimage site for local Tibetans. This is a must-pass location for viewing the three sacred mountains: Xiannairi Peak, Yangmaiyong, and Shano Dorje, and it is also the starting point for the local Tibetan circumambulation ritual. Although the temple is not large, it has a unique charm. It houses Buddha statues and a statue of Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. There are many mani piles around the temple, carrying people's best wishes. The temple is ideally located. Standing in front of it, the blue sky, meadows, snow-capped mountains, and canyons reflect each other, making one feel as if they are at the gates of heaven and allowing them to experience the sanctity and solemnity of nature and religion.

No. 6 of Fall Viewing Attractions in Yunnan

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5D4N • Western Sichuan for nature lovers: Mount Siguniang + Xinduqiao + Yuzixi + Daocheng Yading - snow mountains, Tibetan grasslands & starry skies

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8D7N • Chengdu + Daocheng Yading + Mount Siguniang + Western Sichuan: Stay Inside Yading Scenic Area · Enjoy starry skies and sunrise · Astronomical telescope · Tibetan culture

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Stay overnight inside Yading Scenic Area, and enjoy stunning sunsets and starry skies. Rooms come with oxygen supply, and DSLR cameras or drones are available for use. | Enjoy stargazing through an astronomical telescope, visit a Tibetan village, join a Guozhuang bonfire party, experience Tibetan culture up close, and relax with coffee overlooking the snow mountains. | Enjoy a carefully designed itinerary with gradual altitude adjustment, complimentary travel essentials, extra seating comfort in a small group, and a relaxed, no-rush pace.

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Shangri-La Wudi Lake 1-day tour (light hiking + pure play small group of 8~15 people + no shopping)

4.9/5

· 108 reviews· 483 booked

Duration: 10.1 hrs

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96.3% of travelers recommend

FromJPY 3,019

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[Bottomless Lake for 2-17 People] Day Trip to Wodizuo Lake + Alpine Pasture + Mossy Forest (Light Hiking)

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1-day tour of Wudi Lake with lakeside hike | A healing journey through forests, pastures, and lakes

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Shangri-La - Wudi Lake round-trip 1-day tour (choose from business group or bus group, pure sightseeing with no tricks)

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7D6N • West Sichuan's Most Photogenic Route: Daocheng Yading · Moshi Park · Xinduqiao · Yuzixi - Sacred Peaks, Black Stone Forest & Alpine Meadows

English/MandarinGuaranteed departureFree cancellationArr. & dep. transfers incl.Free eSIM cardMultiple car types availablePrivate Tours

Your own private vehicle and driver - no sharing, no fixed schedule, just the flexibility to go at your pace. · Free oxygen canisters provided - just in case you need them at higher altitudes. · Stay in highly rated 4-diamond hotels throughout for a comfortable stay.

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8D7N • Chengdu + Daocheng Yading + Mount Siguniang

English/MandarinGuaranteed departureFree eSIM cardMultiple car types availableChoose your hotelOptional transferPrivate Tours

Explore Shuangqiao Valley of Siguniang Mountain, visit Mosi Park, stroll across Tagong Grassland, arrive at the “Sky City” Litang, and pilgrimage to Daocheng Yading. · Stay in highly-rated 4-diamond hotels throughout, enjoying a comfortable accommodation experience. · Complimentary Tibetan costume photo session, capturing precious family moments on the plateau.

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8D7N • West Sichuan highlights: Pandas + Yading 2-day: overnight inside + sacred sunrise + Moshi Park + Tibetan village + Yuzixi - 0 backtracking, airport transfer included

English/MandarinGuaranteed departureFree cancellationArr. & dep. transfers incl.Free eSIM cardMultiple car types availablePrivate Tours

Your own private vehicle and driver - no sharing, no fixed schedule, just the flexibility to go at your pace. · Free oxygen canisters provided - just in case you need them at higher altitudes. · Stay in highly-rated 4-diamond hotels throughout, enjoying comfortable accommodation experience.

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9D8N • Chengdu + Daocheng Yading + Mount Siguniang + Xinduqiao Town

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Unlock the grand snow-capped mountains of Mount Siguniang, the light and shadow secret land of Xinduqiao, and the crystal-clear lakes of Daocheng Yading, traversing the entire Western Sichuan Scenic Byway. Bid farewell to a rushed sightseeing tour, fully immerse yourself in the plateau scenery and the ethnic customs of Tibetans and Qiang people—it’s a hidden gem route for winter and spring getaways! · Two exclusive featured experiences are complimentary: ① Sichuan Opera face-changing performance, allowing you to closely appreciate the charm of Bashu intangible cultural heritage; ② Tibetan costume photoshoot on Tagong Grassland, where you can wear distinctive Tibetan costumes to capture the stunning moments of snow-capped mountains and grasslands in the same frame. A drone and SLR camera are provided with the vehicle, and a professional photographer will accompany you throughout the journey. No need to bring your own equipment—easily get travel photos that will wow your social media!

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6D5N • Explore Shangri La and Daocheng Yading · Visit the Old Town of Lijiang and Snow Mountain Holy Land

Mandarin/EnglishGuaranteed departureFree eSIM cardMultiple car types availableChoose your hotelOptional transferPrivate Tours

Offer a variety of experiential activities and exquisite gifts after ordering. Private groups enjoy dedicated local drivers, authentic culinary experiences, and immersive regional scenery. · Discover the profound historical heritage of your destination, experience genuine local folk traditions, and admire iconic local architecture and cultural landmarks. · Benefit from fully customizable itineraries designed just for you. Freely adjust departure times, extend tour stops, add extra activities or modify routes to craft your ideal personalized travel.

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8D7N • West Sichuan highlights: Pandas + Yading 2-day: overnight inside + sacred sunrise + Moshi Park + Tibetan village + Yuzixi - 0 backtracking, airport transfer included

English/MandarinGuaranteed departureFree eSIM cardMultiple car types availableOptional transferPrivate Tours

Your own private vehicle and driver - no sharing, no fixed schedule, just the flexibility to go at your pace. · Free oxygen canisters provided - just in case you need them at higher altitudes. · Stay in highly-rated 4-diamond hotels throughout, enjoying comfortable accommodation experience.

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6D5N • Chengdu + Daocheng Yading + Xinduqiao Town

Mandarin/EnglishGuaranteed departureFree cancellationMultiple car types availableDeposit acceptedExcellent accommodationPrivate Tours

A dedicated private vehicle and experienced chauffeurs familiar with Sichuan road conditions help ensure a safe and smooth journey. · A drone/DSLR camera is available on board, and complimentary travel essentials are included for a worry-free journey, along with additional gifts. · Hotels feature prime locations and comfortable surroundings with neat, clean rooms and complete facilities. Enjoy a restful stay during the trip with balanced quality and great value.

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5D4N • Enjoying the Holiday: Daocheng Yading + Mount Siguniang + Yuzixi

Mandarin/EnglishGuaranteed departureFree cancellationArr. transfers incl.Free eSIM cardDeposit acceptedMultiple car types availablePrivate Tours

Visit Siguniang Mountain, pilgrimage to Daocheng Yading, tour Mosi Park, pass through Xinduqiao, and arrive at Yuzixi Viewing Platform. · Stay in highly-rated 4-diamond hotels throughout, enjoying comfortable accommodation experience. · Complimentary Tibetan costume photo session on Tagong Grassland.

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Group Tours in Daocheng County

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8D7N • Daocheng Yading + Mount Siguniang + Litang + Gunong Village: Xinduqiao Snow Mountain Photography Tour · Stay in Yading Scenic Area · Stargazing & sunrise · mountain horseback riding

Max. 8 peopleMandarinGuaranteed departureNo mandatory shoppingFree cancellationArr. & dep. transfers incl.Deposit acceptedMini Group

A carefully crafted itinerary with gradual altitude gain, complimentary travel essentials, small groups with extra space, a relaxed pace, and a pure travel experience with no shopping stops. · Enjoy exclusive telescope stargazing, a Tibetan dance night, a deep Tibetan culture experience, horseback costume photography, a leisurely horseback ride, and mountain view coffee. · Stay overnight inside Yading Scenic Area, explore both the long and short routes, and enjoy stargazing, sunsets, and sunrises. Rooms come with oxygen supply.

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5D4N • Daocheng Yading + Mount Siguniang + Yuzixi + Xinduqiao + Mosha Stone Park

Max. 8 peopleMandarinGuaranteed departureNo mandatory shoppingDoor-to-door pickup includedFree cancellationFree eSIM cardMini Group

This trip includes an onboard drone or DSLR camera, a set of travel essentials, and an oxygen cylinder, with transportation provided by a licensed tour vehicle. · You may experience local activities, including Tibetan costume photoshoots, horseback riding and scattering lungta (wind horse) offerings, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in Tibetan culture. · You can also taste local specialty dishes and a traditional Tibetan breakfast at the campsite. Savor authentic flavors amid natural mountain scenery and start each day feeling refreshed and energetic.

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7D6N • Chengdu + Mount Siguniang + Daocheng Yading + Yala Snow Mountain Viewing Platform: In-Depth Western Sichuan & Daocheng Route with Tibetan Welcome Experience

Max. 7 peopleMandarinGuaranteed departureNo mandatory shoppingFree cancellationArr. & dep. transfers incl.Deposit acceptedMini Group

Choose from 5-seat SUVs, 7-seat vehicles, and 9-seat vans for a spacious and comfortable ride. · Don't miss these exclusive experiences: equestrian or Tibetan-costume photoshoot at Sera Ranch, leisurely mountain horse-riding and Tibetan Lungta prayer ritual. · Visit Daocheng Yading, Mount Siguniang, Moshi Park Scenic Area, exploring the highlights of Western Sichuan.

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6D5N • Mount Siguniang + Daocheng Yading + Moshi Park Scenic Area + Xinduqiao: Stay inside Yading Scenic Area, enjoy starry skies and sunrise, with an astronomical telescope & Tibetan cultural experience

Max. 7 peopleMandarinGuaranteed departureNo mandatory shoppingFree cancellationFree eSIM cardDeposit acceptedMini Group

6 reviews

Stay overnight inside Yading Scenic Area and explore both hiking routes. Enjoy stunning sunsets and a star-filled sky. Rooms come with oxygen supply, and DSLR cameras or drones are available for use. · Choose this experience to enjoy stargazing through an astronomical telescope, visit a Tibetan village, and join a Guozhuang bonfire party while immersing yourself in Tibetan culture. · Enjoy a thoughtfully designed itinerary with gradual altitude adjustment, complimentary travel essentials, extra seating comfort in a small group, and a relaxed, no-rush pace.

From JPY 89,331

5D4N • Mount Siguniang + Daocheng Yading + Yala Snow Mountain Viewing Platform

Max. 8 peopleMandarinGuaranteed departureNo mandatory shoppingDoor-to-door pickup includedFree cancellationFree eSIM cardDeposit acceptedMini Group

93 reviews

Equestrian or Tibetan-costume photoshoot at Sera Ranch, Lungta prayer ritual, stargazing with telescopes at Yading Village Viewing Platform, and Guozhuang bonfire party in Tibetan costumes. · Vehicles are matched to your group size, with a range of models available, and extra seats are reserved for a more comfortable ride. · On board oxygen generator plus 3 portable oxygen cylinders per person, motion sickness patches, glucose.

From JPY 73,151

7D6N • Chengdu + Mount Siguniang + Daocheng Yading + Yala Snow Mountain Viewing Platform: in-depth Western Sichuan & Daocheng route