Mount Siguniang (Four Girls Mountain) Travel Guide, Western Sichuan
Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & How to Get There
For travelers who love nature and adventure, Mount Siguniang (Four Girls Mountain) in Western Sichuan is a dazzling gem. Known as the “Oriental Alps,” it attracts visitors with its majestic peaks, alpine lakes, dense forests, and rich Tibetan and Qiang culture. This guide covers the main valleys, scenic spots, cultural experiences, food, travel tips, and seasonal highlights.
I. Mount Siguniang Overview
Located in Xiaojin County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan, Mount Siguniang consists of four peaks:
- Yaomei Peak (Fourth Girl Peak) – 6,247.8 m, “Queen of Sichuan Mountains”
- San Niang Shan (Third Girl Mountain)
- Er Niang Shan (Second Girl Mountain)
- Da Niang Shan (Eldest Girl Mountain)
Mount Siguniang combines spectacular natural scenery with rich Tibetan and Qiang heritage, making it a perfect destination for both nature lovers and cultural travelers.
II. Key Attractions
1. Shuangqiao Valley (Double Bridge Valley)
- 40 km valley with 17 major viewing spots and 54 minor sights, including Hongshan Glacial Forest, Mount Budala, and Sigu Nacu Lake.
- Activities: shuttle bus tour, high-altitude rafting, photography of glaciers and meadows.
- Visitor Tips: Ticket ¥80; Shuttle Bus ¥70; 7:30 AM – 3:00 PM; Recommended: 1 full day.
2. Changping Valley (Long Flat Valley)
- 29 km valley with wooden boardwalks, pristine forests, and alpine meadows.
- Activities: hiking, horseback riding, camping at Muzi Meadow Camp, stargazing.
- Visitor Tips: Ticket ¥70; Shuttle ¥20; 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM; Recommended: 1 full day.
3. Haizi Valley (Lake Valley)
- 19.2 km high-altitude valley with alpine lakes like Huahaizi and Shuanghaizi.
- Activities: high-altitude hiking, photography of lake reflections, exploration of Guozhuangping viewpoints.
- Visitor Tips: Ticket ¥60; 7:00 AM – 2:30 PM; Recommended: 0.5–1 day.
4. Maoboliang (Cat Nose Ridge)
- Best panoramic view of all four peaks, especially at sunset (“Golden Mountain under the Sun”).
- Excellent for astrophotography.
- Visitor Tips: Free admission, open all day; bring tripod and wide-angle lens.
III. Culinary Experience
- Tibetan Family Hot Pot: free-range yak meat, potatoes, radishes.
- Local specialties: butter tea, grilled yak skewers, Tibetan pancakes, yak yogurt.
- Night market snacks: roasted potatoes, crispy fried meat, highland barley wine.
IV. Cultural Background
- Jiaju Tibetan Village: Traditional Jiarong Tibetan architecture.
- Mountain Worship Festival: Fourth day of the fifth lunar month, with Tibetan rituals and mountain circling.
- Tagong Temple: Learn about Tibetan Buddhism.
V. Travel Guide: Routes and Practical Information
Transportation from Chengdu
- Driving: Dujiangyan-Wenchuan Expressway + China Panda Avenue, ~220 km, 4–5 hours.
- Long-Distance Bus: From Chengdu Xinnanmen or Chadianzi Bus Station, ¥88–120, 5.5–7.5 hours.
Tickets & Opening Hours
| Valley | Ticket | Shuttle | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shuangqiao | ¥80 | ¥70 | 7:30–15:00 |
| Changping | ¥70 | ¥20 | 7:00–15:00 |
| Haizi | ¥60 | — | 7:00–14:30 |
Best Time to Visit:
- Spring (Apr–Jun): Rhododendrons bloom
- Summer (Jul–Aug): Rafting & camping
- Autumn (Sep–Nov): Colorful forests
- Winter (Dec–Mar): Snowscapes, ice climbing
VI. Conclusion
Mount Siguniang is a destination where nature, adventure, and culture converge. Whether for hiking, photography, cultural exploration, or local cuisine, this “Oriental Alps” offers an unforgettable experience for all travelers.
Start your journey to Mount Siguniang and explore Western Sichuan’s natural and cultural treasures. Furthermore, to explore more highlights of a Sichuan journey, don’t miss our page on Chengdu Tourist Attractions!
