四川 · 稻城亞丁

Journey into Daocheng Yading in Sichuan, "the last Shangri-La": trek to Milk Lake and Five-Colour Lake beneath three sacred mountains, and visit Hailuogou Glacier, Moshi Park and Gedilamu along the way.

Trip at a glance

9 days 8 nights at an average altitude above 4,000 m: · Hailuogou Glacier Forest Park and the old town of Moxi · Moshi Park's "Mars on Earth" landscape, Xinduqiao and Litang · Yading short trek: Chonggu Monastery and Pearl Lake, close to Xiannairi · Yading long trek: Luorong pasture, Milk Lake and Five-Colour Lake beneath Xiannairi (6,032 m), Yangmaiyong (5,958 m) and Xianuoduoji (5,958 m) · Gedilamu "Sky City" for the golden sunrise, and Honghaizi lake

Good to know

Expect 6–8 hours of walking a day on remote routes with rough roads. Not suitable for people with heart conditions, high blood pressure or similar. The best time is April–June and September–November; late September to October has the finest autumn colours.

Who it's for

Fit trekkers who love high-plateau scenery and Tibetan culture.

Spring · March - May

The Rebirth of Shangri-La April to June unveils Yading at its most lyrical—a canvas of emerald poplar groves, carpets of wildflowers, and pink outbursts of alpine rhododendrons (peak bloom late April-May). Days hover near 15°C, though sudden snow or hail keeps the mountains moody. Pack layers, a waterproof shell, and expect crisp dawns (-5°C) melting into golden afternoons.

Summer · June - August

Emerald Season with Rainy Charms Monsoon rains transform Yading into a lush paradise—grasslands glow neon green, lakes achieve crystal clarity, and temperatures hover at a pleasant 18°C (perfect escape from China’s lowland heat). But beware: afternoon downpours are frequent, and trails can turn slick.

Autumn · September - November

Yading's Grand Finale September to mid-October is Yading’s iconic season—when the landscape erupts in a firestorm of colors. Golden poplar forests, ruby-red barberry bushes, and emerald conifers clash against cobalt skies and snow-dusted peaks. Crisp air (5-15°C) and 95% clear days make it ideal for photography and high-altitude treks. Best Time to Visit Daocheng Yading The best time to visit Daocheng Yading is from April to June and September to November each year. During these months, the weather is pleasant, the skies are clear, and the forests are painted in vibrant colors — offering the most breathtaking scenery of the year.

Winter · December- Febraury

The Silent Symphony Bone-chilling (-15°C to 5°C) yet breathtaking, winter transforms Yading into a monochrome wonderland. Snow cloaks the sacred peaks, frozen lakes crackle underfoot, and tourist crowds vanish—but so do amenities. Many trails close, yet the intrepid find crystalline solitude.

Best Time to Visit Daocheng Yading

The best time to visit Daocheng Yading is from April to June and September to November each year. During these months, the weather is pleasant, the skies are clear, and the forests are painted in vibrant colors — offering the most breathtaking scenery of the year.