Daocheng Yading - known as "the last pure land on the blue planet." In April, I came here on a hiking adventure that tested both body and spirit. The title of this article comes from the movie "I Belonged to You" - in the human world of April, I passed through your whole world.
Day 1: Short Route - Zhaguangbeng to Chonggu Temple to Pearl Sea
Starting from Zhaguangbeng, I trekked to Chonggu Temple, the starting point for both the short and long routes. The temple sits in a valley at the base of the three sacred mountains.
From Chonggu Temple, the trail climbs to Pearl Sea (Zhuoma La Tso), a small alpine lake at 4,060 meters elevation. The lake reflects Xiannairi Mountain (5,998m), which represents Avalokitesvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion. The sight of the snow-capped peak mirrored in the still water was deeply moving.
I stayed at a Tibetan homestay in Yading Village with a direct view of the snow mountains. Waking up to the golden sunrise on Xiannairi's summit was a spiritual experience.
Day 2: Long Route - Chonggu Temple to Luorong Pasture to Milk Sea and Five Color Sea
This is the challenging route. From Chonggu Temple, it is 6.7 kilometers to Luorong Pasture, a beautiful alpine meadow where yaks graze against a backdrop of snow peaks.
From Luorong Pasture, the trail climbs steeply to Milk Sea (4,600m) and Five Color Sea (4,700m). The ascent is grueling - high altitude, thin air, and rough terrain. I faced sudden weather changes - wind, snow, and driving rain all within an hour.
Despite the harsh conditions, reaching 4,700 meters was an achievement I will never forget. Unfortunately, the clouds obscured the sunlight, so the lakes were not at their most beautiful - Milk Sea is known for its milky blue color and Five Color Sea for its shifting hues. But the experience of the journey, the struggle, and the camaraderie with fellow hikers made it all worthwhile.
The mountains teach you humility. At 4,700 meters, gasping for breath, you realize how small you are. Nature does not care about your plans or your strength. You simply endure and keep moving.
Travel Tips
Location: Daocheng County, Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province
Tickets: 146 yuan for a 3-day pass. Shuttle bus from the entrance to Chonggu Temple is 120 yuan round trip. Horse riding is available for part of the long route but is expensive and limited.
Altitude Warning: Yading Village is at 3,900m. Chonggu Temple is at 3,800m. The lakes are at 4,600-4,700m. Acclimatize properly before attempting the long route. Bring oxygen canisters and glucose for energy.
Clothing: Weather changes rapidly. Bring warm layers, a waterproof jacket, and proper hiking boots. Even in April, temperatures can drop below freezing at high altitude.
Best Time: April to May and September to October. Summer is rainy. Winter is too harsh for hiking.
Stay: Yading Village (3,900m) is the best place to stay - it is the closest accommodation to the trailhead. Book in advance during peak season.
