Officially known as Sichuan Yading National Reserve, Yading is located in the southeastern part of Daocheng County in the Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province. Sitting at an altitude of over 4,000 meters, Daocheng Yading is embraced by the Hengduan Mountains and is known for its diverse natural landscapes. As a popular destination for hiking adventures around Chengdu and nature tours in China, Yading Nature Reserve is welcomed by tourists for its majestic peaks, spectacular glaciers, clear alpine lakes, vast meadows, and well-preserved primeval forests.
The most iconic highlights in the reserve are three sacred snow-capped mountains, which are Mount Chenrezig (Xiannairi), Mount Chanadorje (Xianuoduoji), and Mount Jampayang (Yangmaiyong). Not only offering breathtaking natural scenery, they are also major Tibetan pilgrimage sites. Embedded among the sacred mountains are pristine alpine lakes such as Pearl Lake, Milk Lake, and Five-Color Lake.
Fast Facts about Daocheng Yading
- Location:In Shangri-La Town, Daocheng County, in the southern part of the Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Sichuan Province.
- Area: About 1,457.5 square kilometers
- Opening Hours:8:20-19:00
- Entrance Ticket: CNY 146/person in peak season from April 15 – November 19; CNY 120/person in low season from November 20 – April 14; CNY 120/person for sightseeing bus.
- Highlights: Snow-capped mountains, alpine lakes, glaciers, ancient Tibetan temples, hiking and outdoor adventures, ethnic culture experiences.
- Altitude: 2900 meters – 6032 meters above sea level
- Best Time to Go: Mid-April to mid-October
- Visiting Time Needed for Reference: About 3-5 days
What to See and Do in Yading National Reserve
A top destination for hiking and natural adventure in China, Yading is favored by both domestic and international tourists for its awe-inspiring landscapes and rich cultural heritage. After Joseph F. Rock introduced it to the West in the 20th century, there are more and more visitors get here to explore its wonders. Listed below are some of its best attractions and experiences.
Marvel at the Three Sacred Snow Mountains
Called Xiannairi, Yangmaiyong, and Xianuoduoji, the three sacred snow mountains in Yading are not only breathtakingly beautiful but also culturally and religiously important for local Tibetans.
Mount Xiannairi in the northmost features permanent snow on its summit. It looks like a giant Buddha with the Chonggu Monastery located at its base. It showcased the most beautiful scenery at sunrises when the soft morning light illuminate the snowy peak.
Mount Yangmaiyong in the south is known for its steep slopes and features a harmonious blend with the surrounding Luorong Pasture and lush forests. The best time to capture Yangmaiyong is at dusk when the mountain is bathed in the golden hues of the setting sun.
Mount Xianuoduoji is located in the eastern part of the reserve, known as “Vajrapani”, and towering about 5,958 meters above sea level. It features a pyramidal main peak, with its sharp wings creating distinct lines against the sky. The best spots to admire Xianuoduoji are Five-color Lake, Luorong Pasture and Chonggu Meadow.
Explore the Unique Charm of High-altitude Lakes in the Reserve
Besides the snow-capped mountains, Yading Nature Reserve is also home to numerous high-altitude lakes, most of which are formed by ancient glacial activities. Among all the glacial lakes, Pearl Lake, Milk Lake, and Five-color Lake are the most famous.
Pearl Lake is nestled at the foot of Xiannairi Snow Mountain. With an altitude of about 4,100 meters above sea level, it is the lowest one among the three holy lakes. Its relatively lower altitude allows a less challenging trekking experience from the Chonggu Meadow to the lake. The exceptionally clear waters of the lake make it an ideal site to admire the reflection of Xiannairi Snow Mountain and the surrounding primeval forests.
Milk Lake is located in the valley of the Yangmaiyong Snow Mountain, sitting at an altitude of about 4,600 meters. The lake got its name thanks to the milky white ring surrounding it. To get to the lake, you’ll need to take a challenging steep trek from Luorong Pasture. You’ll find it rewarding when you immerse yourself in its ever-changing sights and the stunning views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains and expansive glaciers.
Trekking further from Milk Lake, you’ll finally reach Five-Color Lake, which is surrounded by Xiannairi and Yangmaiyong snow mountains. At an altitude of 4,600 meters, the lake with rich minerals shows different colors when the sunlight illuminates it from different angles. Though being hard accessed, the breathtaking highland scenery with snow-capped mountains and serene atmosphere make it attractive for nature and photography enthusiasts.
Luorong Pasture
Sitting at an altitude of about 4,150 meters, Luorong Pasture is a traditional grazing area for nearby Tibetan communities. It is backdropped by the three holy mountains, offering a unique opportunity to not only get up close to breathtaking nature beauties but also an in-depth Tibetan cultural experience.
Being nourished by the Gongga River, this area is surrounded by alpine meadows, attracting herds of cattle and sheep to graze. Beyond the highland countryside view, the pasture also serves as a gateway to hike to Five-color Lake and Milk Lake.
Chonggu Monastery
Chonggu Monastery is located at the foot of the Xiannairi Snow Mountain, sitting at an altitude of about 3,880-3,900 meters. The monastery belongs to the Gelug sect of Tibetan Buddhism, with its history being traced back over 800 years ago in the Yuan Dynasty. Currently, only part of its structures remain, showcasing remnants of its rich religious heritage, including sculptures of Shakyamuni Buddha.
Not only religiously significant, the monastery also serves as a gateway to witness the three holy snow mountains and other natural landscapes and cultural experiences.
Top Hiking Routes in Yading Nature Reserve
There are multiple hiking trails for visitors to marvel at its various natural wonders and cultural highlights. No matter your needs, interests, and fitness levels, you can easily find your suitable route. Below are some classic routes for Yading Nature Reserve hike.
Short Route: to Chonggu Monastery & Pearl Lake, relatively easy
- Overview: A relatively easy route, suitable for first-timers, people with limited time, or who are not accustomed to high-altitude conditions.
- Duration: Takes about 6 hours, with a hiking time of about 3 hours
- Route: Sightseeing bus from entrance to Zhaguanbeng (about 1.5 hrs) – walk to Chonggu Monastery (about 20 mins) to appreciate the stunning view of the three holy mountains – hike to Pearl Lake (about 1 hr) – walk back to Chonggu Monastery (about 1 hr) – return by sightseeing bus.
Long Route: to Milk Lake & Five-color Lake, challenging but classic
- Overview: A challenging and classic route in Yading Nature Reserve, suitable for people with good energy.
- Duration: A full day, with about 7-9 hours hiking time.
- Route: Take a sightseeing bus from the entrance to Zhaguanbeng (about 1.5 hrs) – electric car ride or hike to Luorong Pasture (about 7 km) to admire an excellent view of Yangmaiyong, and Xianuoduoji – uphill trek to Milk Lake (about 3 hrs) – hike to Five-color Lake (about 20 to 30 mins) – downhill hike to Luorong Pasture (about 1.5-2 hrs) – electric car ride or hike back to Zhaguanbeng – return by sightseeing bus.
Combine Short and Long Routes
If time permits, you can stay over two days in the reserve to take both the short route and long route.
On the first day you can take the easy short route to adapt to local high altitude. And on the second day, follow the long route for more adventurous hiking.
Recommended tours including Daocheng Yading:
4 Days Best Daocheng Yading Hiking Tour
8 Days Shangri-La & Daocheng Yading Tour from Lijiang
The Best Time to Visit Yading Nature Reserve
In Daocheng Yading, each season offers its unique charm. Generally, the most recommended visiting time is from mid-April to mid-October, and April to May, and September to October are the best.
April to May is the flower season of Yading when the mountain trails are filled with blooming wildflowers. Also, at this time, the sacred snow mountains are more clear and delightful, and the air is fresh.
September to October is the autumn season in Yading, also the most enchanting season of this region. The area is adorned by vibrant colors of the red meadows and golden trees (Sangdui Red Grassland). These vibrant colors against the backdrop of sacred snow mountains and blue skies create otherworldly picturesque scenery.
June to August is also comfortable when the temperatures are cool, and wildflowers are still bright. While the more frequent heavy rains in this period often make some areas inaccessible. Thus not the best time for hiking and trekking.
November to March is the winter season in Yading when the weather is quite cold and sees heavy snowfalls. Some trails and roads may close in this period, making it a season difficult for travel in this area.
How to Get to Yading Nature Reserve
Get to Daocheng County
Yading Airport is the only airport in Daocheng County that operates frequent flights to/from Chengdu and Chongqing. By flight, visitors can reach Chengdu or Chongqing first, then take a direct flight to reach Daocheng County.
Or, you can take a long-distance bus from Chengdu New South Gate Bus Station to Daocheng Bus Station or Yading Nature Reserve. the bus ride will take about 16 hours, and cost about CNY 270-298 per person.
Considering its remote location and limited transportation options, booking a Daocheng Yading tour with a local travel agency is more recommended for first-timers and foreign tourists. Then all the key aspects of your tour logistics and organization will be taken care of. Feel free to contact our travel consultants if you want to plan a trip to Daocheng Yading.
From Daocheng to Yading
There are airport shuttle buses for visitors to transfer from the Yading Airport to Yading Nature Reserve. Or, you can also hire a car or carpool with others from the airport to Yading Nature Reserve. The route from the airport to the reserve is about 130 kilometers.
Travel Tips
- To prepare for the high altitude in advance: Some people may experience altitude sickness given the relatively high altitude in Yading. Thus it’s recommended to arrive a few days earlier to acclimate. Or consult your doctor and bring medication for altitude sickness.
- Pack warm clothing: No matter which travel season you pick, packing warm clothes is always essential, even in summer. Also, prepare for sun and rain protection to ensure your smooth trip.
- Stay one night in Yading Village: If you want to save time and enter the reserve earlier, it’s recommended to stay one night in Yading Village in the reserve. While, if you experience severe altitude sickness after the first day’s activities, it is better to stay in a lower altitude area outside the reserve to ensure a good rest at night.
- Entrance tickets are valid for two days: The entrance tickets are valid for two days for visitors who stay outside the reserve. Just note that a photo of you and the landscape in the reserve is needed so you can purchase the sightseeing bus tickets at half price on the second day.
- Drone regulation: Don’t fly drones or other aerial models in the reserve without approval.
- Be cautious about higher altitude areas: Areas around Milk Lake and Five-color Lakes are above 4,500 meters, and some may encounter severe altitude sickness.
- Pack some water and snacks: Due to the limited food options in the reserve, it is advised to carry some high-energy snacks like chocolate, and nuts, and enough water.
Attractions Nearby Yading Nature Reserve
- Litang: A historic town featuring ancient monasteries and a vibrant horse racing festival in August.
- Tagong Grassland: A vast, picturesque grassland perfect for horseback riding and admiring the beauty of the surrounding mountains.
- Hailuogou Glacier: A magnificent glacier park offering hot springs, lush forests, and awe-inspiring glaciers.
