Mount Siguniang Scenic Area is located in Siguniangshan Town, Xiaojin County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province. The scenic area consists of Mount Siguniang, Shuangqiao Valley, Changping Valley, and Haizi Valley. It is a National Key Scenic Area, a National Nature Reserve, and a 5A-level Tourist Attraction, covering a total area of 591 square kilometers. Renowned for its majestic peaks, the four snow-capped summits stretch continuously, resembling four maidens wearing white veils. Among them, Yaomei Peak (the youngest sister peak) stands at 6,250 meters above sea level, making it the second highest peak in Sichuan Province. The scenic area also features 52 snow peaks exceeding 5,000 meters, with well-developed modern glaciers and diverse natural landscapes including primeval forests, flowing waterfalls, and alpine meadows. It is hailed as the "Queen of Sichuan Mountains" and the "Oriental Alps."
History and Culture
The Mount Siguniang area has a long history. Archaeological findings show human activities here since the Neolithic Age. This is a settlement of the Jiarong Tibetans, with a profound Jiarong cultural heritage. Tibetan Buddhism is widely spread here, forming unique folk customs. Legend has it that Mount Siguniang was formed by four beautiful and kind girls who transformed into peaks after fighting demons to protect their homeland, reflecting the local people's awe of nature and yearning for a better life. Additionally, Mount Siguniang was a passage for the Red Army during the Long March, leaving many moving heroic stories with important red cultural value.
Main Attractions
Main Peaks of Mount Siguniang
Mount Siguniang comprises four consecutive peaks: Yaomei Peak (the youngest sister), Sanguniang Peak (the third sister), Erguniang Peak (the second sister), and Daguniang Peak (the eldest sister). Yaomei Peak, at 6,250 meters above sea level, is the second highest peak in Sichuan. With its steep terrain and perennial snow, it resembles a graceful maiden, hence the title "Queen of Sichuan Mountains." Sanguniang Peak is 5,355 meters, Erguniang Peak 5,276 meters, and Daguniang Peak 5,025 meters. These four peaks each possess unique characteristics, making them ideal destinations for mountaineering enthusiasts.
Shuangqiao Valley
Shuangqiao Valley is the most developed valley in Mount Siguniang Scenic Area, spanning 34.8 kilometers with an area of 216.6 square kilometers. Mountains line both sides of the valley, each distinct in shape, creating ever-changing scenery. Dominated by snow peaks, pastures, grasslands, and forests, it is the most picturesque valley in the area. The scenic area is divided into three sections, with over 20 developed attractions, offering views of more than ten snow peaks exceeding 4,000 meters.
Changping Valley
Changping Valley extends 29 kilometers with an area of about 100 square kilometers, serving as one of the main scenic areas. The valley not only boasts beautiful natural landscapes but also preserves ancient battlefield relics such as the Tang-Tubo Ancient Road and Lama Temple. A paradise for hikers, the valley stretches approximately 70 kilometers from the entrance to Bipeng Valley, showcasing snow peaks, forests, meadows, and streams along the way. It is listed as one of China's top ten classic hiking routes.
Haizi Valley
Haizi Valley, 19.2 kilometers long and covering 126.48 square kilometers, is named after its numerous alpine lakes ("haizi" means lake in Chinese). The valley features over ten alpine lakes, including Huahai Lake, Fuhai Lake, Baihai Lake, Lanhai Lake, and Huanghai Lake. The crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding snow peaks and forests, creating a fairyland-like scene. As the most primitive valley in the scenic area, Haizi Valley is ideal for adventure-seeking and camping tourists.
Local Cuisine
Yak Beef
Yak beef is a signature dish in the Mount Siguniang area, known for its tender meat and rich nutrition. Locally, yak beef can be prepared by roasting, boiling, or stir-frying. The most famous is roasted yak beef, which is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, emitting an appetizing aroma— a must-try for visitors.
Butter Tea
Butter tea, a traditional Tibetan beverage, is made by blending butter, brick tea, and milk, offering a rich flavor and fragrant smell. It not only warms the body and dispels cold but also replenishes energy, making it an essential drink for tourists in the area.
Zanba
Zanba, a staple food of the Tibetans, is made from highland barley flour. When consumed, it is mixed with butter tea and kneaded into small balls. With a crisp texture and rich nutrition, Zanba is an important dish for visitors to experience Tibetan culture.
Wild Mushroom Soup
The Mount Siguniang area is rich in forest resources, yielding various wild mushrooms such as matsutake, porcini, and chanterelle. The local wild mushroom soup is prepared with fresh wild mushrooms, free-range chicken, pork ribs, and other ingredients, resulting in a delicious and nutritious broth— perfect for visitors seeking nourishment.
Tickets
Tickets for Mount Siguniang Scenic Area are priced by attraction as follows:
Shuangqiao Valley + sightseeing bus: 150 CNY/person
Changping Valley + sightseeing bus: 90 CNY/person
Haizi Valley: 60 CNY/person
For the latest updates or online booking, search for the official WeChat public account "四姑娘山景区".
Opening Hours
The scenic area is open year-round with the following hours:
- Peak season (April 1–November 30): 7:00–17:30
- Off-season (December 1–March 31): 8:00–17:00
Reservations are required for ticket purchase. Tourists must book in advance via the official website or WeChat public account and enter the scenic area at the scheduled time.
Tour Routes
Recommended routes based on travel time and interests:
One-day Tour
Visit Shuangqiao Valley, the most developed valley with concentrated attractions and convenient transportation— ideal for time-constrained visitors. A sightseeing bus tour of the valley takes approximately 6–8 hours.
Two-day Tour
Day 1: Shuangqiao Valley; Day 2: Changping Valley. Changping Valley is perfect for hikers, offering 6–8 hours of exploration on foot or horseback.
Three-day Tour
Day 1: Shuangqiao Valley; Day 2: Changping Valley; Day 3: Haizi Valley. Haizi Valley, the most primitive area, suits adventurous travelers and campers, with 6–8 hours of hiking or horseback riding.
Hiking Through Route
The classic Changping Valley to Bipeng Valley through route spans about 70 kilometers, requiring 3–4 days. This trail, one of China's top ten classic hikes, offers stunning views of snow peaks, forests, meadows, and streams— suitable for experienced hikers.
Transportation
- External Transportation:
- Air: Arrive at Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport or Chengdu Tianfu International Airport, then transfer to a bus or chartered vehicle to the scenic area.
- Bus: Direct buses depart from Chengdu Chadianzi Bus Station at 7:30 and 8:30 daily, taking about 5 hours.
- Chartered Car: Charter a vehicle in Chengdu for a 5-hour drive (cost varies by vehicle type and group size).
- Internal Transportation:
- Sightseeing Bus: Available in Shuangqiao Valley and Changping Valley for scenic tours.
- Horseback Riding: Horses and guides can be rented at the valley entrances for tours in Changping Valley and Haizi Valley.
- Hiking: Multiple trails allow visitors to explore the scenic area on foot.
Must-visit Attractions
- Yaomei Peak: At 6,250 meters, Sichuan's second highest peak, known as the "Queen of Sichuan Mountains"— the iconic landmark of Mount Siguniang.
- Shuangqiao Valley: The most developed valley with concentrated attractions, ideal for visitors with limited time.
- Changping Valley: A hiker's paradise featuring snow peaks, forests, meadows, and streams.
- Haizi Valley: The most primitive valley, perfect for adventure and camping enthusiasts.
- Maoniangliang: One of the best viewpoints, offering panoramic views of Mount Siguniang, especially spectacular at sunrise and sunset.
Travel Tips
- Check weather conditions in advance and visit during spring or autumn— the best seasons for clear skies and pleasant scenery.
- Take precautions against altitude sickness, such as pre-taking medication and avoiding strenuous exercise. The scenic area averages over 3,000 meters, with some spots exceeding 4,000 meters.
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing; bring sunscreen and rain gear. Frequent weather changes and strong UV rays require proper preparation.
- Respect local customs and religious beliefs, and avoid touching cultural relics or historic sites.
- Follow scenic area regulations, dispose of waste properly, and protect the ecological environment as a national nature reserve.
Precautions
- Altitude sickness is common due to the high elevation (3,000+ meters, with some areas over 4,000 meters). Prepare in advance with medication and avoid strenuous activity.
- Pack sunscreen, rain gear, and warm clothing due to variable weather and large day-night temperature differences.
- Choose hiking routes according to physical condition and experience; some trails are challenging. Prepare thoroughly by researching routes and equipping necessary gear.
- Mobile phone signals are weak in some areas; plan communications ahead. Avoid undeveloped zones for safety.
- Catering and accommodation conditions are basic; choose licensed facilities to ensure food and lodging safety.