Mount Siguniang Travel Guide: Witness the “Oriental Alps”
Mount Siguniang is named the “Queen of Mountains” in Sichuan Province, China. “Siguniang” means four sisters, representing the four peaks of the mountain range. Among them, Yaomeifeng, meaning the youngest sister of the four peaks, is the highest at 6,232 meters (20,446 feet). This beautiful national park also consists of three valleys with forests, lakes, waterfalls, glaciers, and meadows.
The gorgeous scenery has also earned Mount Siguniang the title of “Oriental Alps.” It is well loved among hikers and photographers. There’re activities like hiking, horse riding, and camping. It’s part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuaries and home to wildlife including golden monkeys and red pandas. This Mount Siguniang travel guide will help you plan the best Sichuan tour.
Chinese: 四姑娘山 sì gū niáng shān
Location: Southwest Sichuan Province
Why Travel to Mount Siguniang?
- Scenic Beauty: The natural scenery at Mount Siguniang is among the best of Sichuan. With different sceneries and color schemes in different seasons, it’s a paradise for photographers.
- Hiking and Trekking: There are trekking routes of different difficulties for hikers of different levels. Your passion for hiking might start here, or you might find your next challenge at Mount Siguniang.
- Rich Biodiversity: The region surrounding Mount Siguniang is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Encounter alpine plant species during your hike and make a trip to the nearby panda conservation base.
- Cultural Heritage: The Qiang ethnic group resides nearby Mount Siguniang. As you explore the valleys, you’ll encounter temples and other structures where you can learn about their religion and customs.
Top Attractions at Mount Siguniang
Top Things to Do at Mount Siguniang
Explore the Three Valleys
Your trip to Mount Siguniang would not be complete without one of the three valleys. They each have different views with forests, alpine lakes, waterfalls, glaciers, and meadows.
As mentioned before, the three valleys are of varied difficulty, and you should choose one that suits you best. Easier parts of the hikes have trails, and boardwalks. Other times there are options for horseback riding. If you want to spend a night here close to the stars, you can camp at designated sites or stay at the guesthouses.
Conquer the Four Peaks
Mount Siguniang is one of the best destinations for trekking tours near Chengdu. Like the valleys, the four peaks are also of varied difficulties, though they are all recommended for experienced hikers, as all of them have heights above 5,000 meters (16,404 feet).
Usually, the first and second peaks, Dafeng and Erfeng, are more popular among those who are new to trekking in snow mountains. They are both about 35 km (22 miles) long and take around 30 hours, with Erfeng being more challenging. They don’t require a professional hiking certificate, but both pass through Haizi Valley, so you will need a trekking guide.
The third and fourth peaks, Sanfeng and Yaomeifeng, are known for their difficulty, and demand a lot of technical expertise and specialized equipment. Make sure you consult a local guide if you want to embark on these hikes.
In general, when you travel to Mount Siguniang, be mindful of the high altitude and symptoms of altitude sickness. Bring medication or oxygen if needed.
Encounter Giant Pandas
Mount Siguniang National Park is a natural habitat for giant pandas. Embark on a panda tour from here to Wolong National Nature Reserve, which is only about 70 km (43 miles) away. You’ll see pandas up close, and the conservation efforts made to protect them. You can even volunteer for the research base.
Immerse in Tibetan Culture
Mount Siguniang is located in Aba Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture where you’ll find Tibetan villages and monasteries. Learn about Tibetan culture and lifestyle during your visit. Try traditional Tibetan foods like yak butter tea, yak meat, and cheese.
Recommended Tours including Mt. Siguniang
Mount Siguniang Weather & Best Time to Visit
Mount Siguniang weather is very unpredictable. The summits are usually covered in snow. Valleys are warmer but still relatively cold. Summer is the warmest season with an average temperature of 19°C (66.2°F) in the day. Winter can be below 2°C (35.6°F). It’s hard to name a best time to travel to Mount Siguniang, because each season brings out a different side of it.
Autumn (Late September to November): Autumn is the prime season for trekking. Under the clear blue sky, there’re beautiful colors in the mountains. Golden leaves, red rhododendrons, and snow-capped peaks together form a surreal painting.
Late Spring to Early Summer (May to July): These months have mild temperatures and moderate rainfall. Along the trails and lakes, you’ll see blooming flowers such as azaleas, gentians, and primroses.
Spring and Winter for Snow Scenery: If you have your mind set on seeing the best snowscapes, travel to Mount Siguniang in spring or winter. But prepare yourself for cold weather and potential road closures. Temperatures at night can drop below freezing, and the snow may be thick and slippery for hiking. You’ll see amazing glaciers and icefalls. Plus, there’re winter activities like ice climbing or skiing.
How to Get to Mount Siguniang from Chengdu
There are no direct trains from Chengdu to Mount Siguniang. The easiest way to get there is by car. And you can take a bus for a cheaper option.
Mount Siguniang is about 205 km (127 miles) from Chengdu, about 4 or 5 hours away by car, making it a popular destination for Chengdu side trips. Hire a private car and driver to go from Chengdu to Mount Siguniang. Buses are cheaper and also easy. Take a bus at Chengdu Chadianzi Bus Station to Siguniangshan Town (formerly Rilong Town), which usually takes 4-5 hours.
