Hailuogou Glacier & Hot Springs: A Low-Altitude Ice and Fire Adventure in Western Sichuan

Quick Facts

• Location: Moxi Town, Luding County, Sichuan, China
• Elevation: 1,600–4,800 meters
• Highlights: Low-altitude modern glacier, hot springs at glacier foot, Mount Gongga views
• Best for: Nature lovers, first-time glacier visitors, photography, wellness travel
• Ideal stay: 1–2 days

Introduction

Hidden in the mountain folds of the Western Sichuan loop is a place where glaciers, hot springs, and ancient forests meet: Hailuogou. While it may not be as world-famous as Jiuzhaigou, its rare status as a low-altitude modern glacier makes it one of the most accessible glacier destinations in China. After trekking across ice, soaking in hot springs, and sharing fireside conversations with local Tibetans, I realized Hailuogou is less about ticking sights off a list—and more about feeling nature at its rawest.

Why Hailuogou Is Special

Located on the eastern slope of Mount Gongga, Hailuogou combines three landscapes rarely seen together:

• Glaciers: A dramatic icefall drops over 1,080 meters, with the glacier tongue reaching as low as 2,850 meters—no technical mountaineering required.
• Hot Springs: Natural springs up to 92°C bubble right below the ice, creating the famous “ice and fire” contrast.
• Ancient Forests: Over 90% forest coverage forms a natural oxygen bar filled with yew trees, streams, and birdsong.

A French glaciologist I met here summed it up perfectly: “One of the most accessible glaciers in the world—ideal for beginners and researchers alike.”

Culture Along the Glacier

Hailuogou is also a cultural crossroads:

• Sacred Mount Gongga: Revered by Tibetans as a holy mountain. Prayer flags, mani stones, and mountain-circling rituals are part of daily life.
• Tea-Horse Road History: Moxi Town was once a key stop for caravans trading tea and horses. Old stone paths and Qing-era wooden houses still line the streets.
• Khampa Tibetan Life: Known for warmth and hospitality, locals welcome travelers with songs, butter tea, and circle dances during festivals.

Unmissable Experiences

The Four Camps of Hailuogou

1. Camp No.1 – Caohaizi Forest
   • Gentle boardwalk hike through ancient yew trees
   • Excellent birdwatching and picnic spot
2. Camp No.2 – Hot Spring Area
   • Outdoor pools surrounded by forest and snow
   • Try hot-spring–boiled eggs for a local snack
3. Camp No.3 – Glacier Viewing Platform
   • Best panoramic view of the Great Icefall
   • Frequent sea-of-clouds conditions on clear mornings
4. Camp No.4 – Glacier Tongue
   • Walk onto the ice with a licensed guide
   • Explore ice caves, crevasses, and prayer-flag-lined paths

Food to Try

• Breakfast: Yak butter tea and tsampa for energy
• Local dishes: Smoked Moxi cured meat, wild mushroom chicken stew
• Sweet finish: Barley cakes drizzled with local wild honey

Recommended stops include the Snow Mountain Restaurant near Camp No.3 and family-run eateries in Moxi Town.

How to Get There

• By car: Chengdu → Ya’an → Luding → Moxi → Hailuogou (320 km, ~5–6 hours). SUV recommended.
• Public transport: Bus from Chengdu Xinnanmen Station to Moxi, then scenic shuttle buses inside the park.

Where to Stay

• Inside the park:
  • Camp No.2 (hot springs): ¥800–1200/night
  • Camp No.3 (glacier views): ¥500–800/night
• Moxi Town: Hotels and hostels ranging from ¥50–600/night

Best Time to Visit

• Spring (Apr–May): Glaciers with blooming azaleas
• Autumn (Sep–Oct): Peak photography season
• Winter (Dec–Feb): Snowy landscapes and best hot spring atmosphere

Practical Tips

• Altitude: Take it slow, hydrate well, and consider altitude medicine if sensitive.
• Clothing: Weather changes fast—bring layers year-round.
• Respect: Ask before photographing people and always walk clockwise around religious objects.

Final Thoughts

Hailuogou is where ice meets warmth, and wild nature meets living culture. Standing between a glowing blue glacier and steaming hot springs, you realize travel isn’t about conquering landscapes—it’s about listening to them. If Mount Gongga is the soul of Western Sichuan, Hailuogou is one of its most intimate conversations. Furthermore, to explore more highlights of a Sichuan journey, don’t miss our page on Chengdu Tourist Attractions!