318 Expedition

Tour Route: 10 Days in Western Sichuan

$ From

Route Highlights:

Set out from Chengdu to discover captivating landscapes and cultural wonders. Marvel at Siguniang Mountain’s peaks, traverse thrilling trails, encounter rare flora and fauna.

Journey Features

Embark on an exhilarating journey from Chengdu to explore captivating landscapes and cultural treasures. Marvel at Siguniang Mountain, the “Queen of Sichuan’s Mountains,” boasting towering peaks and pristine forests. Traverse thrilling hiking trails with panoramic views. Encounter rare flora and fauna, including the elusive giant panda. Discover the tranquil beauty of Yulong Lacuo, nestled amidst serene wilderness. Experience spiritual serenity at Tagong Temple, a sacred Tibetan monastery. Witness the awe-inspiring beauty of Chola Shan Glacier, surrounded by majestic peaks and shimmering ice. Immerse in the vibrant culture of Barkam, the gateway to the Tibetan Plateau. Explore the historical and cultural heritage of Lixian County. Join us on this unforgettable journey through western Sichuan before returning to Chengdu.

Itinerary Details

10 day self driving in western sichuan itinerary

Itinerary Overview
Day 1: Arrival in Chengdu

Day 2: Sightseeing in Chengdu
Day 3: Chengdu-Dujiangyan-Mount Siguniang Town
Day 4: Mount Siguniang Town-Danba-Jiaju Tibetan Village
Day 5: Jiaju-Bamei-Tagong
Day 6: Tagong-Daofu-Luhuo-Garze County
Day 7: Garze-Yulong Lacuo-Garze
Day 8: Garze-Barkam (Maerkang)
Day 9: Barkam-Lixian-Chengdu
Day 10: Airport transfer

Submission and Free Consultation

Day 01 Arrive in Chengdu

Welcome to Chengdu

Welcome to Chengdu! You’ll arrive at Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport and check into your hotel. During dinner, we will go over basic traffic rules in China and important things to remember when driving here.

Overnight in Chengdu

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Day 02 Tour in Chengdu City

Wenshu Monastery

In the morning, you’ll apply for a temporary Chinese driver’s license. Afterward, in the afternoon, you can explore Wenshu Monastery and savor afternoon tea at the Tea Garden located within the monastery. In the evening, we will accompany you to experience a Sichuan Opera performance at Pear Garden, showcasing captivating acts such as face-changing, fire-spitting, rolling lights, and hand shadow play.

Overnight in Chengdu

Day 03 Chengdu-Dujiangyan-Siguniangshan Town

Dujiangyan, Mount Siguniang

On the third day, our journey will take us to Dujiangyan, an ancient marvel of hydraulic engineering celebrated as a pinnacle of China’s historical water management. During our travels, we will explore the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, where we can appreciate its extraordinary water conservation architecture. We will then cross Balang Mountain, taking in the stunning natural landscapes along the way. Once we arrive at the Maobaling Scenic Area, you’ll have the chance to get a close-up view of the breathtaking Mount Siguniang, which stands at 6,250 meters above sea level—an awe-inspiring sight indeed. In the evening, we’ll settle in Siguniangshan Town, allowing ourselves to fully enjoy the charm and tranquility of this lovely destination.

Overnight in Siguniangshan Town

Day 04 Siguniangshan Town-Danba-Jiaju Tibetan Village

Shuanggou Bridge, Jiaju Tibetan Village

In the morning, we will explore Shuanggou Bridge, a historic structure steeped in rich heritage and culture. Following lunch, our journey will take us to Jiaju Tibetan Village, celebrated as one of the most picturesque Tibetan villages in China, set against stunning mountain landscapes. We will hike through Jiaju Tibetan Village, taking in its distinctive Tibetan architecture and cultural atmosphere. In the evening, we will spend the night in a local Tibetan homestay, allowing us to fully experience the allure of Tibetan culture while enjoying wonderful interactions with the local community.

Overnight in Jiaju Tibetan Village

Day 05 Jiaju-Bamei-Tagong

Yala Snow Mountain, Tagong Monastery, Tagong River

On the fifth day, we will embark on an adventure through the stunning Maoniugou, taking in the breathtaking views of the Yala Snow Mountain. Following that, we will cross the expansive Tagong Grassland to arrive at Tagong Monastery, a historic temple steeped in tradition. During our visit, we will admire the impressive Muya Golden Pagoda and wander through the peaceful Mani River Valley, immersing ourselves in the spiritual ambiance and serene natural beauty of the area.

Overnight in Tagong

Day 06 Tagong-Daocheng-Luhuo-Garze County

Scenery of Garze

As we travel to Garze County, we’ll journey through Daocheng and Luhuo, taking in the breathtaking and diverse landscapes of grasslands, snow-capped mountains, serene lakes, and stunning gorges. While crossing expansive grasslands, we’ll gaze at towering snow peaks, discover pristine lakes, and navigate through impressive gorges. Every view will be captivating, creating lasting memories.

Overnight in Garze

Day 07 Garze-Yulong Lacuo-Garze

Yulong Lacuo, Que’er Mountain Glacier

On the seventh day, we will journey to the Manigango Tea Horse Ancient Town, a site of great historical importance that was once an essential halt along the ancient Tea Horse Road, showcasing a wealth of cultural heritage. Following that, we will discover Yulong Lacuo, a tranquil and enchanting lake often referred to as the pearl of the Tibetan Plateau. Lastly, we will visit the Que’er Mountain Glacier, where we can admire its breathtaking scenery and immerse ourselves in the stunning marvels of nature.

Overnight in Garze

Day 08 Garze-Ma’erkang

Xisi Folk Residence, Zhuokeji Chieftain’s Manor

On the eighth day of our trip, we will say goodbye to Garze and head towards Ma’erkang. Along the way, we’ll stop at the Xisuo Folk House, a traditional home that showcases the local culture and way of life. We will also visit the Zhaokeji Tusi Official Residence, a historical site that provides a glimpse into the region’s governance and heritage from the Tusi system.

Overnight in Ma’erkang

Day 09 Ma’erkang-Lixian County-Chengdu

Taoping Qiang Village

On the ninth day, we will return to Chengdu. During our journey, we will stop at Taoping Qiang Village, a historic settlement of the Qiang ethnic group that has existed for over 2000 years. Here, you will have the opportunity to delve into the traditional culture and way of life of the Qiang people, appreciating their ancient architecture and engaging with their folk customs. Following this visit, we will conduct a vehicle inspection before heading back, signifying the successful conclusion of our self-driving adventure.

Overnight in Chengdu

Day 10 The itinerary is ending

The itinerary is coming to a close. We look forward to meeting you again

On the tenth day, we will wrap up our travels and head back to the comfort of home. As we approach the conclusion of this adventure, I genuinely hope you have a safe journey ahead. May you take with you cherished memories and valuable experiences that will remain dear to your heart. I eagerly anticipate our next meeting to discover even more wonderful places together. Wishing you a seamless trip ahead!

Breakfast

airport 10 day self driving in western sichuan

Prices

Tour PackagePrice: USD/PersonQuantitySub-Total
Single Room Supplement
Others
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Service

Service Included:

  • Tibet Travel Permit application service and mailing service within China.
  • Entrance tickets to the listed attractions and activities.
  • Accommodations are in three-star hotels with breakfast throughout the journey.
  • Comfortable and safe tourist vehicle.
  • Excellent Tibetan English-speaking guide.
  • Farm house lunch and welcome dinner.
  • Travel accident insurance and high-altitude sickness insurance.
  • Shuutle service between the airport/train station and Lhasa city.
  • Exquisite Tibetan gifts and travel maps.
  • On-board medical oxygen supply for travel in high-altitude areas.

Service Excluded:

  • International and domestic transportation to and from Tibet.
  • Single room supply for solo travelers who require a single room.
  • Some meal expenses are not included in the tour (the guide will assist in arranging and recommending meals; you are responsible for the cost).

Self-Driving Tour

The road leaves the Sichuan Basin behind and heads into the lower highlands of the Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture from Chengdu. It passes through the Hengduan highlands and via cities like Minya Konka and Kangding, which serve as the entrance to the Yala Jokul Scenic Area. Further along the route, in Xinduqiao, is a pleasantly lovely town with mountains, plateau grassland views, and traditional Tibetan dwellings that make it a photographer’s dream come true.

The roads are not good after Xinduqiao, and there are lots of portions made of gravel and dirt that could be dangerous for an unfamiliar way driver. The road is at best uneven and should be carefully through Litang and Batang, as well as across the border into Markam. But from Markam onward, the majority of the road has an asphalt surface all the way to Lhasa, with only a few isolated areas of poor road.

The mountains and valleys of Nyingchi Prefecture, sometimes referred to as the Switzerland of Tibet, are green and lush, with peach trees lining the sides of the road as far as the eye can reach in places. 

Tourists can rent a car in Chengdu, follow the lead car of a travel agency, arrange a local tour guide in Tibet, and apply for the Tibet Travel Permits, temporary driver’s license, and other procedures to drive in Tibet.
 
At present, our company has recommended road trips for international tourists: Sichuan-Tibet 318 Line, Chengdu-Lijiang Road Trip for 15 days, Northwest Sichuan Round Line for 10 days and others. 
 
For more inquiries, you can contact us directly.

Because they said, “In this life, I will drive 318 all the way west to Lhasa.”
 
Because there are four seasons in one day, different weather in 10 miles in Tibet. Eyes in heaven, bodies in hell.
 
Because there are snow mountains, white pagodas, lamas, Prayer flags, Longda, Mani stone, sacred lake, and yak.
 
Because of the Tibetan antelopes, sky burials and faith.
 
Because it was the Tang Pan Ancient Road that Princess Wencheng had walked for three years.
 
Because there are Gesang flowers, this is Zoma’s hometown.
 
Because there is a snowy plateau, there is sunshine in Jinshan.
 
Because there is the Potala Palace and the Jokhang Temple.
 
Because there is Mount Everest, the third pole in the world.
 
Because there is Ali in heaven, and there is the sacred Mt. Kailash.
 
Because there are poems left by Tsangyang Gyatso.

Materials to be ready:

1. Anti-high reaction: Coca-Cola (sugar might lessen altitude reaction), Rhodiola, and a portable oxygen bottle.

2. Sun protection measures, such as a hat, sunscreen, and other essential

3. Clothes: Because of the weather and altitude changes, quick-drying to down coats should be brought. Everest Base Camp offers coat rentals. Wearing short ones will result in sunburn, therefore avoid doing so.

4. Anti-slip chain: Without an anti-slip chain, Yiduo Mountain, Dongda Mountain, and the perennial snow Tanggula Mountain would be extremely dangerous.

5. Entrance documents into Tibet: passport, Tibet travel permit, temporary driver’s license, etc.

1. Tibet Travel Permits: We will handle the documents submitted 30 days in advance.
2. Travel permit: If you go 318 or 317 into Tibet, you need to apply for a travel permit, which is arranged by the tour guide on the way.
3. Military Permit: Road trip to Tibet involves the military control area, which requires advance application to pass, and the approval letter is also handled by our agency 30 days in advance.
4. Temporary driver’s license: After the tourists arrive in Chengdu with an international driver’s license, they will be arranged by the tour guide to study at the Chengdu Motor Vehicle Administration.
5. Keep the passport with you.

1. Accommodation: Basically, the towns along the Sichuan-Tibet border can accommodate people, and the one that is lowest in altitude is selected.

2. Hotel rate: 200 yuan during off-peak season, 300–400 yuan during peak season.

3. Hotel amenities: The Sichuan-Tibet line is comparatively new, and lodging quality has really increased. The hotel essentially offers amenities like hot water, electricity blankets, and toilets.

4. Supply and demand: Reservations must be made well in advance during the high travel season in Tibet, which runs from July to September.

Despite the improved road conditions along the Sichuan-Tibet route, it is still recommended to utilize an off-road vehicle due to the driving tendencies of international tourists and the uncharted territory. Smaller and medium-sized off-road vehicles, like the Tank 300, are preferable over huge off-road vehicles, like the Prado, which are still not advised.

Following our team’s driving instructions is generally safe since we have highly skilled Road Trip leaders, carefully choose our routes, and create appropriate itineraries that protect everyone’s safety.

In reality, Tibetans are extremely loyal, sincere, and amiable, just like other ethnic minorities. It’s also a very safe place to travel, and the people there will greet you with smiles and waving. You can taste “endless” butter tea and barley wine and be treated like a distinguished guest when you visit a Tibetan home. Insecurity in Tibet is mostly caused by natural disasters including avalanches, blizzards, landslides, floods, and overturns. 

If there is an altitude reaction on the way, there are hospitals or health centers in general hotels or towns, and mild altitude sickness is recommended to adapt to through self-regulation, and serious illness can see a doctor.

You should relax more, walk less, insist on eating, and take medications (such rhodiola capsules) to alleviate altitude reaction.

We will quickly make arrangements for infusion, oxygen, and other care in the hospital if there is a serious altitude reaction, such as edema, pulmonary edema, severe cold, and other symptoms, and we will leave the plateau.

For those in good health, there are no specific needs beyond keeping a positive attitude. People with severe respiratory, heart, cardiovascular, and mental diseases should not enter Tibet, so patients with severe hypertension, heart disease, bronchitis, diabetes, and colds are restricted from entering Tibet. In addition, do not deliberately exercise before entering Tibet, if you have been insisting on exercising, you should also stop half a month before going to Tibet, because oxygen consumption increases after exercise, which imposes a load on your heart in Tibet, and is easy to cause altitude sickness. When entering the plateau, it is often those who have good athletic ability that altitude sickness is more severe.

Warm Hint

  • Before submitting an application for the Tibet Entry Permit into Tibet, please confirm that your passport is valid for at least 6 months.
  • When entering Tibet from Kathmandu, the Chinese visa must be processed in Kathmandu; please do not process it in your home country beforehand. If a tourist previously held a long-term valid Chinese visa, when applying for a Chinese visa in Kathmandu, the old visa will be replaced by a 30-day valid group travel visa.
  • Tibet can only utilize the RMB. If you require RMB, you can swap it for US dollars in your area or withdraw money from an ATM.
  • Be healthy and prevent colds before traveling to Tibet.
  • When traveling to Tibet, both the airport and the train station will check the Tibet Entry Permit. Please keep the original safe, and do not write or draw on it.
  • Before traveling to Tibet, please ensure that you obtain your Tibet Entry Permit and verify your identity.
  • It is not suggested that pregnant women or people with severe hypertension, heart problems, or asthma travel to Tibet.
  • If you are concerned about excessive altitude sickness after visiting Tibet, take a suitable dosage of Rhodiola oral solution or pills before entering Tibet.
  • When traveling in Tibet, you must remain with the group throughout the entire trip and cannot leave at any time.
  • Please pack vitamins and stock medicine in your luggage.
  • When traveling on the plateau, stay hydrated, exercise slowly, eat more fruits, and take vitamins.
  • When first approaching the plateau, avoid smoking and drinking until the body is properly accustomed to the surroundings.

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