Sichuan's Underrated Snow Mountain Town

Luojishan Travel Guide 1. Introduction to Luojishan Located in Puge County, Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan, Luojishan is named for its resemblance to a "maiden's hair bun." This 4A-rated national scenic area is famed for its alpine lakes, primeval forests, glacial relics, and hot spring waterfalls, earning it the title "Sister Mountain of Mount Emei." - Best seasons: May–October (summer retreat, autumn foliage); winter (Dec–Feb) offers snowscapes, but some sites may close. - Altitude: The main peak stands at 4,359m, with tourist areas between 2,000–3,500m. Acclimatize to avoid altitude sickness. 2. Transportation Guide ① How to get there? - By air: Nearest airport is Xichang Qingshan Airport (~60km from Luojishan), with flights from Chengdu/Chongqing, then transfer by bus/charter. - By train: Xichang West Station (3hrs from Chengdu by HSR), then taxi/bus to Luojishan Town (~1.5hrs). - By car: - From Chengdu: ~5–6hrs (via G5 Expressway + provincial roads). - From Xichang: ~1.5hrs (S212 provincial road). ② In-park transport: - Shuttle bus: Park entrance → cableway base (~30min mountain drive). - Cableway: Asia’s largest elevation-drop sightseeing cableway (45min one-way, ~1,000m vertical). Highly recommended—hiking up is strenuous. 3. Must-Visit Attractions ① Heilongtan (Luojishan’s "Pearl") - Glacial lake with crystal-clear water, framed by snow peaks. Perfect for photos. - Tip: ~1hr lakeside loop hike; capture mountain reflections on clear days. ② Xiancao Lake & Pearl Lake Cluster - A series of glacial lakes with emerald-blue waters, scattered like jade. - Hiking route: Heilongtan → Xiancao → Pearl Lakes (~2–3hrs). ③ Luojishan Jiujiuli Hot Spring Waterfall (World’s Largest) - Highlights: Natural hot springs cascade down cliffs—bathe under waterfalls! - Location: Separate ticket required (~40min drive from Luojishan Town). - Tip: Crowded in peak season; visit early or avoid weekends. ④ Glacial Grooves & Ancient Relics - Unique Quaternary glacial landforms for geology enthusiasts. ⑤ Alu Cliff & Sea of Clouds Viewpoint - Overlook rolling clouds and snow-capped peaks at sunrise/sunset. 4. Itinerary Ideas ① One-Day Trip (Compact) - AM: Park entrance → shuttle → cableway → Heilongtan → Xiancao Lake. - PM: Pearl Lakes → glacial grooves → cableway down (or visit Jiujiuli). ② Two-Day Trip (In-Depth) - Day 1: Main park (Heilongtan/Xiancao hike), overnight in Luojishan Town/hot spring hotel. - Day 2: Jiujiuli Waterfall + Qionghai Wetland Park (en route back). 5. Accommodation ① Near Park Entrance (Luojishan Town) - Budget: Yi-style homestays (¥100–200/night). - Mid-range: Luojishan Resort Hotel (heated floors, ¥300–500/night). ② Near Jiujiuli Hot Springs - Hot spring hotels (includes entry ticket, ¥500–800/night). ③ Xichang City (for return trips) - Lakeside options like Qionghai Hotel (¥400–600/night). 6. Food Recs ① Yi cuisine: Tuotuo pork, buckwheat cakes, sour potato soup. ② Xichang BBQ: Firepot-style (pork belly, fish skewers). ③ In-park: Pack snacks—limited dining options. 7. Pro Tips ① Tickets (2024): - Luojishan Park: Combo ticket (entry+shuttle+cableway) ≈¥250/pax. - Jiujiuli Hot Springs: Peak season ≈¥200; off-season ≈¥150. ② Essentials: - Altitude prep: Avoid exertion; carry oxygen (sold onsite). - Layer up: Cold even in summer. - Sun protection: Strong UV—sunglasses/hats mandatory. ③ Avoid Pitfalls: - Cableway may close in high winds—check weather. - Skip Jiujiuli on holidays to evade crowds. Ideal for nature lovers, hikers, and hot spring seekers! Pair with Qionghai Lake or Lugu Lake for extended trips. 🌄