Located in the Garzê Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Sichuan Province in southwest China lies a place that seems like heaven on earth—Daocheng Yading. Famed for its snow-capped mountains, glaciers, valleys, forests, meadows, lakes, and rich Tibetan Buddhist culture, Daocheng Yading has been hailed as “the last piece of pure land on the blue planet.” It is a paradise for photography enthusiasts and a spiritual destination for countless travelers.

Location and Basic Information

Daocheng Yading is situated within Daocheng County, Garzê Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, in the southern section of the Hengduan Mountains, with an average elevation above 4,000 meters. The Yading Scenic Area, officially known as Yading National Nature Reserve, is a national 5A-level tourist attraction and is centered around three sacred snow mountains surrounded by lakes, forests, and grasslands.

The three sacred peaks—Mount Xiannairi (representing Avalokitesvara), Mount Yangmaiyong (Manjushri), and Mount Xianuoduoji (Vajrapani)—are worshipped by the Tibetan people and have long drawn pilgrims from all directions.

Spectacular Natural Scenery

1. The Three Sacred Mountains

Mount Xiannairi (6,032 meters): The tallest of the three, this imposing peak is covered in snow year-round. Bathed in sunlight, it glows like a divine beacon and is considered the embodiment of Avalokitesvara (Guanyin).

Mount Yangmaiyong (5,958 meters): Elegant and symmetrical, it resembles a blooming lotus and is said to represent Manjushri, the bodhisattva of wisdom.

Mount Xianuoduoji (5,958 meters): With jagged, dark blue rock faces and steep slopes, this mountain radiates strength and grandeur, representing Vajrapani, the bodhisattva of power.

These three mountains form a triangle, encircling a vast area of meadows, rivers, and pristine lakes, creating a stunning alpine panorama.

2. Five-Color Lake and Milk Lake

Five-Color Lake: Nestled between Mount Xiannairi and Mount Yangmaiyong, the lake displays multiple hues—blue, green, red, yellow, and white—depending on the angle of the sun and the minerals in the water. Its crystal-clear surface mirrors the snow mountains above, forming a breathtaking sight.

Milk Lake: Located at the foot of Mount Yangmaiyong, this turquoise glacial lake is bordered by white rocks, giving the appearance of milk splashed onto the earth. It is one of the most iconic lakes in Yading.

3. Luorong Pasture and Chonggu Monastery

Luorong Pasture: Surrounded by the three sacred mountains, this highland meadow bursts with wildflowers in summer and is dotted with grazing yaks. It is a tranquil spot and the starting point for treks to the sacred lakes.

Chonggu Monastery: A small yet spiritually significant temple nestled at the foot of the mountains. It remains an active site of Tibetan Buddhist worship and reflects the region’s deep religious roots.

A Fusion of Nature and Faith

Daocheng Yading is not only a showcase of stunning landscapes but also a living embodiment of Tibetan Buddhist culture. The three sacred peaks are regarded as holy mountains and are among the most revered pilgrimage destinations for Tibetan people.

The pilgrimage ritual of “kora” (circumambulating sacred sites) is a form of spiritual devotion. Believers hold that one circuit of a sacred mountain can cleanse a lifetime’s sins, ten circuits avoid the sufferings of hell, and a hundred circuits ensure freedom from the cycle of reincarnation.

Ecology and Conservation

Thanks to its unique alpine environment, Daocheng Yading boasts a rich variety of flora and fauna, including pika, blue sheep, snow leopards, and arrow bamboo. Hunting and logging are strictly prohibited, and the region remains one of the most pristine ecosystems in China.

In recent years, local authorities have adopted measures to balance ecological protection with tourism development. Visitor caps, eco-buses, and waste management systems have been implemented to minimize human impact on the environment.

Best Time to Visit and Travel Tips

Best Season: The ideal time to visit is from May to October. May–June sees blooming alpine flowers, while September–October offers golden autumn foliage and the most photogenic landscapes.

Clothing Tips: Due to the high altitude and large temperature swings between day and night, it’s recommended to wear layers, including down jackets or windproof clothing. Bring sunblock, sunglasses, and medication for altitude sickness.

Transportation: Travelers can reach Daocheng by land from Chengdu via Kangding and Litang, or fly directly into Daocheng Yading Airport—one of the highest-altitude civilian airports in the world.

A Sanctuary for the Soul

Many visitors describe their experience in Daocheng Yading as overwhelming, purifying, and transformative. Every mountain, forest, and lake seems to speak of the divine presence and the eternal spirit of nature.

As quoted in the popular book I Belonged to You: “You must visit Daocheng Yading at least once in your lifetime.” It’s more than a scenic destination—it’s a journey of the heart, a spiritual cleansing, and a profound reverence for the natural world.