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Yading Nature Reserve Facts & Overview
Yading Nature Reserve is a stunning and sacred natural area located in the southwestern part of Sichuan Province in China. It is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful areas in the Tibetan Plateau.
- Location: Yading Village, Shangri-La Town, Daocheng County, Garze Prefecture, Sichuan Province, China
- Type: High-altitude natural scenery, including snow-capped peaks, lakes, meadows, and forests. Buddhist monasteries and cultural sites.
- Altitude: Landscapes range from 2,900 to 6,032 meters (9,514 to 19,790 feet). Visitors typically reach altitudes between 2,900 and 4,700 meters (9,514 to 15,419 feet). (Check the Map)
- Best Time to Visit: From April to November, with the most beautiful scenery observed in October and November.
- Tour Methods: Combination of sightseeing bus rides, high-altitude hiking, and horseback riding.
- Sightseeing Bus Tickets: 2 segments for the sightseeing buses. The 1st segment is from the entrance of the reserve to Zhaguanbeng (扎灌崩), with a price of 120 CNY for a round trip, which is essential to purchase. The 2nd segment is from Chonggu Temple to Luorong Cattle Farm, covering a one-way distance of 6.7 kilometers (4.2 miles). The one-way ticket costs 50 CNY, and a round-trip ticket costs 80 CNY. It is optional to purchase, but it is recommended to save time and energy.
- Recommended Duration: 2 days
- Ticket Price: Off-season (December 1st to March 31st), 120 CNY per person. Peak season (April 1st to November 30th), 146 CNY per person, valid for two days.
- Opening Hours: 07:00 to 17:00 during peak season. 8:30-16:00 during off-season
It's important to note that due to the high altitude of Yading Nature Reserve, visitors should be aware of the potential effects of altitude sickness and take necessary precautions. Adequate acclimatization and physical fitness are essential for a safe and enjoyable visit to the reserve..
Yading Nature Reserve Highlights & Attractions
Yading Nature Reserve is a remarkable destination that encompasses Three Sacred Mountains, Three Holy Lakes, Chonggu Temple, and Luorong Cattle Farm. To get close to these top attractions, you need to take a sightseeing bus from the entrance of Yading National Park, covering a one-way distance of 41 kilometers (25 miles), to reach Zhaguanbeng. From Zhaguanbeng, you can embark on a hiking adventure to fully immerse yourself in the stunning scenery and enjoy the natural wonders of the reserve.
Three Sacred Mountains - Core Attractions in Yading Nature Reserve
Located in close proximity to each other, the Three Sacred Mountains rise magnificently, forming a distinctive triangular shape. Their majestic presence and spiritual symbolism make them a focal point of reverence and awe for visitors and pilgrims alike. The Three Sacred Mountains not only add to the natural grandeur of the reserve but also contribute to its cultural and religious heritage.
Mount Xiannairi (仙乃日) - Highest Peak - 6032 meters
Mount Xiannairi holds immense significance in Tibetan Buddhism as it symbolizes compassion, embodying the virtues of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva. As the north peak of the Three Sacred Mountains in Daocheng, Mount Xiannairi is the first major peak encountered within the scenic area, making it the initial sacred mountain visible upon entering Yading. Its striking shape, resembling a lotus seat, adds to its grandeur and magnificence, evoking a sense of awe and reverence.
Recommended viewing spots: Pearl Lake, Observation deck nearby Yading Village, Yading Village, Chonggu Temple
Mount Yangmaiyong (央迈勇) - Main Peak - 5958 meters
Mount Yangmaiyong is the south peak of the Three Sacred Mountains in Yading Nature Reserve. This mountain holds immense significance in Tibetan Buddhism as it represents wisdom, embodying the qualities of the Manjushri Bodhisattva. The peak is characterized by its distinctive shape, resembling a sharp sword thrusting towards the sky. This unique feature adds to its allure and makes it a recognizable landmark within the Yading Nature Reserve.
Recommended viewing spots: Luorong Cattle Farm, Milk Lake
Mount Xianuoduoji (夏诺多吉) - Third Peak - 5958 meters
Mount Xianuoduoji is the east peak of the Three Sacred Mountains in Yading Nature Reserve. While it may be the most inconspicuous among the three sacred mountains, it holds immense significance in Tibetan Buddhism. Mount Xianuoduoji represents power and embodies the qualities of the Vajrapani Bodhisattva.
Recommended viewing spots: Luorong Cattle Farm, Chonggu Temple
Three Holy Lakes - Best Viewpoint for Mountain Peaks
Milk Lake (niu nai hai) - Largest Lake - 4600 meters
Milk Lake is the largest and most renowned among the Three Sacred Lakes. Its water originates from the melting glaciers within the vicinity, resembling a drop of water, with its outermost layer adorned in a milky white hue, from which it derives its name. The color of the lake transitions gradually from the outer edges to a captivating green shade towards the center, resembling a piece of exquisite jade delicately placed within the Yading Nature Reserve, surrounded by magnificent snow-capped mountains. Moreover, Milk Lake serves as a perfect mirror, elegantly reflecting the majestic presence of Mount Xiannairi.
The journey to Milk Lake is challenging. First, you need to take a 20-minute shuttle bus from Zhaguanbeng to Luorong Cattle Farm. From there, you'll begin a one-way, 5-kilometer high-altitude hike that will take you 2-3 hours. Halfway through the hike, you have the option to ride a horse, but the number of horses is limited. After visiting Milk Lake, you can choose to continue forward to Five-Color Lake or return the way you came.
Five-Color Lake (wu se hai) - Highest Lake - 4700 meters
Five-Color Lake is the highest-altitude attraction accessible to visitors within the Yading Nature Reserve. It is a high mountain lake that resembles a computer mouse in shape, with its water sourced from the surrounding glacial meltwater. The lakebed of Five-Color Lake features numerous irregular net-like patterns, and it is adorned with lush vegetation. When the sunlight shines upon the lake, its waters exhibit five different colors: blue, green, light green, dark green, and purple, hence its name, Five-Color Lake.
Five-Color Lake is only 300 meters away from Milk Lake, with a seemingly inconspicuous small hill separating the two lakes. Walking from Milk Lake to Five-Color Lake, this short 300-meter distance often takes one hour or even more. After all, you have already spent three hours hiking at high altitude to reach Milk Lake. Many tourists often give up on reaching the nearby Five-Color Lake due to exhaustion or uncomfortable symptoms of altitude sickness, leaving themselves with regrets on their journey to Daocheng Yading.
Pearl Lake (zhen zhu hai) - Smallest Lake - 4100 meters
Pearl Lake, located at the foot of the majestic Mount Xiannairi in the Yading Nature Reserve, is the lowest-altitude lake among the three sacred lakes. It offers a magnificent view of the snow-capped Mount Xiannairi. The name "Pearl Lake" comes from the shimmering quality of the water, resembling a string of pearls. The lake has a shape reminiscent of a bean pod and is surrounded by a complete wooden plank trail, allowing visitors to admire the beauty of the lake from all angles.
To reach the stunning Pearl Lake, you'll need to hike for 2 kilometers from the drop-off point of the sightseeing bus. Once you arrive at Pearl Lake, you can spend approximately 0.5 to 1 hour there, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and marveling at the shimmering waters and the magnificent view of Mount Xiannairi. Whether you want to sit and reflect, take photos, or simply appreciate the peaceful surroundings, Pearl Lake offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Chonggu Temple - 3900 meters
Once you hop off the sightseeing bus, a leisurely 500-meter walk along the plank trail will lead you to Chonggu Temple. This temple serves as the heart location of the Yading Nature Reserve, and it's a sight to behold. To the right of the temple, a trail awaits, inviting you to explore the wonders of Mount Xiannairi and Pearl Lake. On the left, you'll find a trail and road that will guide you to the magnificent Luorong Cattle Farm.
Chonggu Temple itself is a Tibetan Buddhist temple, adorned with white walls, red windows, and a captivating golden roof. Its architectural beauty shines brilliantly against the backdrop of clear blue skies, fluffy white clouds, lush forests, and majestic snow-capped mountains. Although visiting the interior of Chonggu Temple is not included in the itinerary for exploring the Yading Nature Reserve, you can still marvel at its exterior beauty and capture stunning photographs of the temple against the breathtaking backdrop of Mount Xiannairi and Mount Xianuoduoji. This opportunity allows you to appreciate the spiritual ambiance and capture the essence of this remarkable place.
Luorong Cattle Farm - 4100 meters
Luorong Cattle Farm is located 6.7 kilometers south away from Chonggu Temple and is surrounded by the magnificent Three Sacred Mountains. It's a vast high-altitude pasture nestled amidst snow-capped peaks and picturesque valleys. The meadows are adorned with meandering rivers, and the combination of snow-covered grasslands, glacial rivers, and towering mountains creates a scenery straight out of a fairy tale. It's truly a magical place. One cannot miss visiting Luorong Cattle Farm when exploring Daocheng Yading.
To reach the farm from Chonggu Temple, you have two options. You can take a leisurely hike along the wooden plank trail, which takes about 1.5 hours. Alternatively, there's a scenic shuttle bus ride available for a fee of 70 yuan, taking you there in just 20 minutes. Given the high altitude of 4,000 meters, it's recommended to opt for the convenient shuttle bus ride.
Best Things to Do at Yading Nature Reserve
Hiking and Trekking - Tough but Worthwhile
Yading Nature Reserve offers 2 hiking trails that take you through stunning landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, pristine lakes, and vast meadows.
Short-Line Hiking: 4-km and 3-hours for round-trip
- Route: Zhaguanbeng - 0.5km (0.5-hour hiking) - Chonggu Temple - 1.5 km (1-hour hiking) - Pearl Lake
- Distance: about 4 Kilometers for round-trip
- Duration: about 2-3 hours for round-trip
- Altitude: from 3800 to 4100
- Highlights: Chonggu Temple, Pearl Lake, Mount
Long-Line Hiking: 11-km and 7-hours for round-trip
- Route: Zhaguanbeng - 0.5km (0.5-hour hiking ) - Chonggu Temple - 6.7 km (0.5-hour bus ride) - Luorong Cattle Farm - 5km (3-hours hiking or horse riding ) - Milk Lake - 0.3km (1 hour) - Five-Color Lake
- Distance: about 11 Kilometers for round-trip
- Duration: about 6-7 hours for round-trip
- Altitude: from 3800 to 4700
- Highlights: Luorong Cattle Farm, Mount Yangmaiyong, Mount Xianuoduoji
The hike takes you through lush forests, rocky terrain, and scenic landscapes. As you approach Milk Lake and Five-Color Lake, you'll witness its turquoise waters reflecting the surrounding mountains. The view is truly mesmerizing and worth the effort.
Photography - Easy and Unparalleled
Yading Nature Reserve is a paradise for photographers. The picturesque landscapes, snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and vibrant meadows provide endless opportunities for capturing stunning photographs. Whether you're a professional photographer or simply enjoy capturing beautiful moments, Yading offers an abundance of scenic spots to indulge in your passion for photography.
Experience Tibetan Culture - Original and Sacred
Yading Nature Reserve is located in a predominantly Tibetan region, offering a unique opportunity to experience Tibetan culture. You can visit local Tibetan villages, interact with the friendly locals, and explore their way of life. Take part in traditional Tibetan ceremonies, visit Buddhist monasteries, and witness the rich cultural heritage of the Tibetan people.
Enjoy Horseback Riding - Short But Wonderful
During the 5-kilometer hike from Luorong Cattle Farm to Milk Lake, there is a section of 3.5 kilometers where you have the option to have a horseback riding uphill. The cost for a one-way horse ride is 300 yuan, and it takes approximately 40 minutes. You can rent a horse or join guided horseback riding tours to explore the reserve's scenic trails. Riding on horseback allows you to cover more ground and offers a different perspective of the stunning landscapes.
It's important to note that Yading Nature Reserve is a high-altitude destination, and acclimatization is necessary due to the higher elevation. Take necessary precautions, dress appropriately, and be mindful of your physical condition while engaging in activities in the reserve.
Daocheng Yading Nature Reserve Tour Itinerary
For a more immersive experience, it is highly recommended to plan a 2-day itinerary to fully explore the awe-inspiring beauty of the Three Holy Mountains and the Three Sacred Lakes in Daocheng Yading. This extended timeframe allows you to delve deeper into the natural wonders of the area and truly appreciate its magnificence. Here's a suggested itinerary:
Day 1: Short-Line Hiking to Pearl Lake
- Enter the Daocheng Yading Nature Reserve from Shangri-La Town.
- Take a 1-hour scenic shuttle bus ride to Yading Village.
- Check-in at your accommodation in Yading Village.
- Board a bus to Zhaguanbeng for the short-line hiking experience.
- Pass by Chonggu Temple on your way to Pearl Lake.
- Admire the magnificent Mount Xiannairi at Pearl Lake.
- Return to your accommodation in Yading Village.
Day 2: Long-Line Hiking to Milk Lake and Five-Color Lake
- Catch the shuttle bus from Yading Village to Zhaguanbeng.
- Walk 500 meters to Chonggu Temple.
- Transfer to a sightseeing bus for a 20-minute ride to Luorong Cattle Farm.
- Begin the long-line hiking journey to Milk Lake and Five-Color Lake.
- Enjoy the beautiful alpine meadows and forests along the way.
- Take in the breathtaking natural scenery at the lakes.
- Return to Yading Village.
Daocheng Yading Nature Reserve Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Daocheng Yading Nature Reserve is from April to October when the weather is relatively mild and the landscapes are at their most vibrant. However, the reserve can get crowded during peak tourist season in July and August. If you prefer fewer crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of April-May or September-October.
- Altitude Considerations: Daocheng Yading Nature Reserve is located at high altitudes, ranging from 3,500 to 6,032 meters (11,483 to 19,790 feet). It's important to acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness. Plan for a gradual ascent, stay hydrated, and listen to your body. If you experience severe symptoms of altitude sickness, it's advisable to descend to lower elevations.
- Permits and Tickets: To enter Daocheng Yading Nature Reserve, you'll need to purchase an entrance ticket and a sightseeing bus ticket. These can be obtained at the entrance gate. Keep your tickets with you as they may be checked at various checkpoints within the reserve.
- Transportation: The nearest airport to Daocheng Yading is Daocheng Yading Airport (DCY), which is about 50 kilometers (31 miles) away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or hire a private car to reach the nature reserve. Buses are also available from Chengdu to Daocheng, but the journey takes around 2 days. Within the reserve, a sightseeing bus service is available to transport visitors to various scenic spots.
- Accommodation: There are accommodations available both inside and outside the reserve. Yading Village is inside the reserve and is highly recommended. You can also stay overlight in Daocheng County and Shangri-La Town. It's advisable to make reservations in advance, especially during peak season. Outside the reserve, in the town of Daocheng, there are more accommodation options ranging from budget guesthouses to upscale hotels.
- Essential Items: When visiting Daocheng Yading, be sure to pack essential items such as warm clothing, comfortable hiking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, a reusable water bottle, and any necessary medications. The weather in the reserve can be unpredictable, so it's best to dress in layers to accommodate temperature changes.
- Respect the Environment and Culture: Daocheng Yading is not only a natural wonder but also a place with rich Tibetan culture and Buddhist heritage. Respect the local customs, refrain from littering, and follow designated trails. When visiting monasteries or sacred sites, dress modestly and be mindful of photography restrictions.
- Guided Tours: Consider hiring a local guide or joining a guided tour to enhance your experience and learn more about the reserve's history, culture, and natural wonders. Guides can provide valuable insights and ensure your safety during treks and hikes.
Remember, these tips are meant to provide general guidance, and it's always a good idea to research further and plan according to your specific needs and interests.
Explore Daocheng Yading Nature Reserve in Western Sichuan with AOT
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Popular Highlights: Three Sacred Mountains, Milk Lake, Five-Color Lake, Chonggu Temple, and Luorong Cattle Farm
Tour Packages: Daocheng Yading Tours, Western Sichuan Tours, Sichuan Tibet Highway Tours
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Prepare to be enchanted by the pristine landscapes and serene beauty of Daocheng Yading. Let AOT be your trusted companion as we unveil the wonders of this hidden treasure in Sichuan. Join us on this remarkable journey and create memories that will last a lifetime. Together, let's embark on an extraordinary adventure into the captivating realm of Daocheng Yading.
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