This is the true value of summer in Western Sichuan!!!

Ultra-detailed travel guide to Garzê County in Western Sichuan – exclusive summer scenery awaits your exploration! Pre-Trip Preparation 1. Altitude sickness prevention: With high elevations in Western Sichuan, take anti-altitude sickness medication like Rhodiola rosea one week in advance. Avoid strenuous activities upon arrival in Garzê County to allow your body time to adjust. 2. Clothing: Pack warm layers (thick jackets, windbreakers, thermal pants) due to significant day-night temperature differences, though daytime wear can include shorts and T-shirts. 3. Sun protection: The strong UV rays require high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hats, and sun-protective clothing to prevent sunburn. 4. Documents: Bring your ID card. For visits to restricted areas, obtain necessary permits beforehand. Transportation Guide 1. Self-drive: From Chengdu, pass through Ya'an, Luding, Kangding, Xinduqiao, Tagong, Dawu, and Luhuo before reaching Garzê County. The route offers stunning views but has winding, steep sections—drive cautiously. The Tagong-Garzê stretch has good road conditions, providing an excellent driving experience in fair weather. 2. Bus: Direct buses depart daily from Chengdu's Xinnanmen and Chadianzi stations to Garzê County. The long journey calls for snacks and entertainment. Attractions 1. King Gesar's City: Located at the G317 intersection in Si'e Township, Garzê County (free entry). As the world's first Gesar culture-themed city, it traces the legendary king's life through exquisite palace carvings, lifelike sculptures, Tibetan opera performances, and tap dancing. The central Sengdruk Tashi Palace, said to have been built with help from mythical creatures, adds mystique. Nearby wetland and grassland areas enhance the scenic beauty. 2. Garzê Monastery: On Hillside No.20 near town (free). This 300-year-old Gelugpa monastery—"Garzê Tashi Lhunpo" in Tibetan, meaning "pure and beautiful"—is the largest in Ganzi Prefecture. Its grand architecture blends Tibetan and Han styles, offering profound spiritual ambiance. 3. White Pagoda Park: On Xiangyun Road West (free). Dominated by a 37-meter pagoda modeled after Beijing's Temple of Heaven, this serene spot is ideal for photography, especially at the northwest hilltop viewpoint overlooking town and distant snow-capped peaks. 4. Hundred-Mile Highland Barley Gallery: The G317 stretch between Garzê Airport and town transforms in summer into an impressionist painting—emerald barley fields stretching endlessly against snow mountains and grasslands. 5. Tiger-Elephant Mountain: This cloud-level vantage point offers panoramic views of Garzê and Yalong Linka Wetland, with sunrise mists and starry nights. Facilities include camping platforms and stargazing tents amid pristine barley fields. 6. Laima Danxia Town: Known as "China's Walking Horse Culture Capital," this ethnic gem hosts regular horse races and tap performances. Its sunset-kissed architecture against snow peaks creates mesmerizing vistas. Winter drapes it in monochrome elegance. Accessible via 30-minute drive (G317, near section 725) or 1-2 hour scenic hike. Cuisine Highlights 1. Yak Meat: From 3,500m pastures where yaks graze on herbs, try braised (rich sauce), stewed (clear broth), or air-dried jerky (chewy and fragrant). 2. Smoked Pork Leg: A local specialty with glossy, firm meat—steamed slices are banquet centerpieces. 3. Wind-Dried Pork: Cured whole like a lute, it's versatile for cooking with clean, sweet aftertaste. 4. Butter Tea: The ultimate Tibetan hospitality—earthy tea blended with butter and walnuts, paired with tsampa (roasted barley flour). 5. Qingke Barley Wine: This "liquid gold" balances fiery warmth with honeyed smoothness, perfect for festive toasts. Accommodation 1. Luxury: Garzê Xiangyun Hot Spring Hotel (4.5★) by Yajiang Wetland Park features mountain-view thermal baths. 2. Upscale: Futianhai Holiday Hotel (4.7★) near King Gesar's City, or Art·Western Sichuan Creative Hotel (4.8★) with private villas and black hot springs. 3. Budget: Local hostels and B&Bs offer cultural immersion and travel tips. Itinerary Ideas - 3-Day: Day 1: King Gesar's City & Garzê Monastery; Tibetan dinner. Day 2: White Pagoda Park photography; Tiger-Elephant Mountain camping. Day 3: Laima Danxia cultural experience. - 5-Day: Days 1-2: Scenic drive via Xinduqiao/Tagong grasslands and Mozi Stone Forest. Days 3-5: Garzê cultural sites and barley landscapes. Key Notes 1. Respect religious customs—avoid touching heads or sacred objects. 2. Check road conditions; hire licensed drivers if not self-driving. 3. Monitor altitude sickness; seek medical help if severe. 4. Preserve nature—pack out all trash.