Siguniang Mountain

Siguniang Mountain
Siguniang Mountain, also known as the "Four Sisters Mountain," is a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site and one of China’s most iconic alpine landscapes. Located in Sichuan Province’s Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, it comprises four sacred peaks—the tallest, Yaomei Feng, soars at 6,250 meters—and spans 450 square kilometers of glacial valleys, dense forests, and crystal-clear lakes. Revered as the "Alps of the East," it is a paradise for mountaineers, trekkers, and nature enthusiasts, offering unparalleled vistas of snow-capped peaks, wildflowers, and Tibetan cultural heritage.

Historical Overview
The area has long been sacred to the Qiang and Tibetan peoples, who named it "Siguniang" (Four Sisters) after a local legend of four sisters transformed into mountains to protect their land. Modern exploration began in the 1980s, with the first ascent of Yaomei Feng in 1981 by a Japanese team. In 2006, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuaries, recognizing its ecological significance. Today, it remains a hub for adventure tourism and a living symbol of Tibetan-Qiang cultural resilience.

Geographical Layout
The mountain range is divided into three primary valleys:

• Changping Valley: A 29-kilometer glacial valley with alpine meadows, hot springs, and the iconic Bugong Temple ruins.
• Haizi Valley: Home to 15 emerald lakes (haizi) and the 4,500-meter-high Shuangqiao Glacier.
• Changping Valley: A challenging trekking zone with 54 peaks over 5,000 meters and the 4,900-meter-high Dafeng Base Camp.
  Key peaks include:
• Yaomei Feng (Four Sisters I): The highest and most technically demanding summit.
• Erlang Feng (Four Sisters II): A 5,276-meter peak accessible to experienced trekkers.
• Sanjie Feng (Four Sisters III) and Meimei Feng (Four Sisters IV): Popular for intermediate climbers.

Major Attractions

1. Yaomei Feng Base Camp: A 4,200-meter-high campsite offering sunrise views of the golden peaks.
2. Wuhaizi: A 3,600-meter-high alpine lake reflecting the Four Sisters’ silhouettes.
3. Changpingguan: A 14th-century Qiang fortress overlooking the Changping Valley.
4. Shuangqiao Valley: A 35-kilometer-long canyon with Tibetan prayer flags and waterfalls.
5. Hailuogou Glacier: A rare low-altitude glacier (3,200 meters) with ice caves and geysers.
6. Wolong Nature Reserve: Adjacent panda habitat with wild giant panda sightings.

Suggested Itineraries

1. Classic Trek (3 Days):
   Rilong Town → Changping Valley → Bugong Temple → Bipenggou → Wuhua Lake → Return to Rilong.
   Highlights: Alpine meadows, Tibetan villages, and sunset over the peaks.

2. Adventure Route (5 Days):
   Rilong → Haizi Valley → Dafeng Base Camp → Summit Dafeng (5,025m) → Descent via Shuangqiao Glacier.
   Highlights: Glacier crossings, high-altitude camping, and summit views.

3. Cultural & Nature Tour (4 Days):
   Rilong → Wolong Panda Base → Siguniang Mountain Museum → Changpingguan → Tibetan Homestay → Hailuogou Glacier.
   Highlights: Panda conservation, Qiang architecture, and geothermal springs.

Ticket Purchase

• Online: Book via the official Siguniang Mountain website (siguniang.cn) or Ctrip up to 7 days in advance.
• On-Site: Tickets available at Rilong Town ticket office (arrive early to secure permits).
• Prices:
  • Peak Season (April–November): ¥150 (adults), ¥75 (students/seniors).
  • Off-Season (December–March): ¥60 (adults), ¥30 (students/seniors).
  • Climbing Permits: Additional ¥300–¥500 per peak (required for summits above 5,000m).

Transportation

• By Bus: Daily coaches from Chengdu Chadianzi Station to Rilong Town (5 hours, ¥90–120).
• Self-Drive: G350 highway from Chengdu via Dujiangyan and Wolong (4 hours, toll-free).
• Guided Tours: Operators in Chengdu offer 2–3 day packages (¥800–¥1,500/person).
• Within Park: Private vehicles allowed only in Rilong Town; trekkers use shuttle buses or hire local guides.

Best Time & Tips

• Crowds: Avoid July–August (peak season); visit in May–June (wildflowers) or September–October (autumn colors).
• Weather: Temperatures drop 10°C from valley to peak; pack layers and waterproof gear.
• Altitude Sickness: Acclimatize in Chengdu or Wolong before ascending; carry oxygen cans.
• Essentials: Hiking boots, trekking poles, and a reusable water bottle (filter available at campsites).
• Prohibitions: No drones, camping outside designated zones, or feeding wildlife.