Aba

The Aba Plateau has a large temperature difference between morning and evening, and road conditions should be checked during the rainy season.

Aba Prefecture in Sichuan is vast, and attractions such as Jiuzhaigou and Mount Siguniang are very well known. Because the sights are far apart, it is best to first decide your route based on the length of your holiday, then arrange transport and accommodation. Below is a classic 5-day, 4-night itinerary and some practical tips.

Main Attractions Overview

Aba’s scenic areas are spread out. For a first visit, it is best to prioritize areas with good facilities and representative scenery.

• Jiuzhaigou: Best known for its water scenery. The scenic area is laid out in a Y shape, with each of the three valleys offering its own highlights. Five Flower Lake, Five-Color Pond, and Pearl Shoal Waterfall are all iconic sights. The altitude is about 2,000–3,100 meters, so altitude sickness is relatively less likely, and there is something to see in every season.
• Mount Siguniang: Often called the Alps of the East. Shuangqiao Valley is more suitable for ordinary visitors, as sightseeing buses run through the whole area. Along the way, you can see snow-capped mountains, meadows, Potala Peak, and redwood forests.
• Huanglong: Famous for its layered travertine colorful pools. Five-Color Pond, located at a higher point, is the main highlight. The scenic area is at a relatively high altitude, so taking the cable car is recommended to save energy.
• Bipenggou: Combines snow mountains, lakes, and colorful forests. The reflections at Panyang Lake and Longwang Lake are especially distinctive. The wooden walkways are relatively gentle, making it suitable for an easy short visit.
• Lianbao Yeze: Known for striking peaks, unusual rock formations, and alpine lakes. The 4520 Viewing Platform overlooks Zhaga’er Tso, making it better suited to travelers who prefer wild, high-altitude landscapes.

Classic 5-Day Itinerary

This route links Aba’s core natural landscapes and keeps a moderate pace. It is suitable for first-time visitors to Aba.

• Day 1: Chengdu → Mount Siguniang (Shuangqiao Valley) → Lixiao Road → Gu’ergou. Visit Shuangqiao Valley in the morning, then drive along Lixiao Road in the afternoon. In the evening, relax in the snow mountain hot springs at Gu’ergou.
• Day 2: Gu’ergou → Bipenggou → Jiuzhaigou. Visit Bipenggou in the morning, then drive to Jiuzhaigou in the afternoon. Stay near the valley entrance at night and try local Tibetan-style hot pot.
• Day 3: Full-day visit to Jiuzhaigou. It is recommended to enter the scenic area when it opens in the morning. Visit Long Lake and Five-Color Pond in the morning, then see Arrow Bamboo Lake, Five Flower Lake, and Pearl Shoal Waterfall in the afternoon. In the evening, enjoy the sunset in Shuzheng Valley.
• Day 4: Jiuzhaigou → Huanglong → Chengdu. Head to Huanglong Scenic Area in the morning, then return to Chengdu by high-speed train or bus in the afternoon, ending the Aba section of the trip.
• Day 5: Leisure time in Chengdu. You can visit the Sanxingdui Museum, or arrange meals and rest in downtown Chengdu before returning according to your flight schedule.

Transport and Accommodation Tips

• Transport: The best option is a combination of high-speed rail and scenic-area shuttle. Take the Sichuan-Qinghai high-speed railway from Chengdu East Railway Station to Jiuzhai Station, then transfer to a direct shuttle bus to the scenic area. This helps reduce uncertainty from traffic jams on mountain roads. Groups can also choose self-driving or a private charter, but mountain roads have many bends, so beginners should be cautious. Fill up the tank before departure and avoid driving at night.
• Accommodation: In Jiuzhaigou, you can stay near the valley entrance or in Zhangzha Town, both of which are close to the scenic area and have convenient facilities. Gu’ergou is good for a hot spring resort stay. Around Mount Siguniang, consider a guesthouse with a private hot spring bath. During peak season, book ten days in advance.

Things to Note

• Preventing altitude sickness: Most parts of Aba Prefecture are above 3,000 meters. On the first day after arrival, avoid showering or washing your hair, and avoid strenuous exercise. You can prepare oxygen canisters in advance.
• What to wear: The temperature difference between morning and evening on the plateau is very large. Even in summer, it is recommended to bring a hardshell jacket or a light down jacket. At noon, strong sunlight can make it feel warmer, so sun protection is necessary.
• Risks with private charters: Do not easily trust roadside drivers soliciting chartered rides, as they may take you to privately enclosed “fake attractions” that charge fees, such as Liandaoba Grassland. It is better to take official buses or book chartered services through proper channels.
• Ticket reservations: Popular scenic areas such as Jiuzhaigou require online reservations in advance, and there are no on-site ticket windows. In peak season, you need to book ten days ahead.
• Road safety: July to August is the rainy season, and landslides may occur in mountain areas. Check the weather and road conditions before departure, and do not force the trip during periods of continuous heavy rain.