Sacred Peaks of West Sichuan

Several days operate at 4,000–4,600m. The pre-dawn visit to Lenggacuo (Day 3) is at 4,500m. Daocheng Yading's long kora reaches Milk Lake at 4,600m. We build acclimatisation into every stage — slower days below 3,500m before the high push, and we always drive into Daocheng rather than fly, because the airport sits at 4,411m and arriving by air significantly raises the risk of acute altitude sickness. If you have heart or respiratory conditions, speak to your doctor before booking.

It is a genuine Khampa farmhouse, not a guesthouse — heated rooms, shared meals with the host family, and a wood stove in the kitchen. It is clean and well looked-after. The experience at the foot of Mt Genie is categorically different from anything a hotel provides. If you prefer more comfort in the lead-up to the high-altitude days, we can arrange a lodge in Litang instead.

Mid-September to late October is the sweet spot — autumn colour on the plateau, stable weather windows, and the clearest views of Gongga and Genie. Late April to May works as the spring alternative: fewer crowds, emerging wildflowers, and reasonable weather. Avoid late July and August when monsoon cloud frequently blocks the peaks. Roads can close in winter (November–March) at the higher sections.

Daocheng Yading National Reserve requires an entry ticket and compulsory use of the internal electric-cart system for lower valley sections. We handle all tickets and logistics. There are no special foreign-visitor permits beyond standard travel documentation. The reserve is accessible year-round, though we always route you in overland from Litang to manage altitude.