Siguniang Mountain, also known as Four Sisters Mountain or Mount Skubla, is a breathtaking massif in Sichuan’s Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, about 205 km west of Chengdu. Renowned as the “Oriental Alps” for its snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and alpine scenery, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site within the Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuaries. With four peaks—Dafeng (5,025 m), Erfeng (5,276 m), Sanfeng (5,355 m), and Yaomei Feng (6,250 m), the “Queen of Sichuan Mountains”—and three stunning valleys, Siguniang is a paradise for trekkers, climbers, photographers, and nature lovers. This guide will help you plan an unforgettable adventure.
A Travel Guide to Siguniang Mountain
Why Visit Siguniang Mountain?
Siguniang Mountain offers a rare blend of dramatic landscapes and cultural richness. Its four peaks, named after a Tibetan legend of four sisters, tower over emerald forests, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear lakes. The area’s three valleys—Shuangqiao, Changping, and Haizi—provide diverse experiences, from leisurely sightseeing to challenging treks. As part of a panda sanctuary, it’s home to wildlife like golden monkeys and red pandas. The region’s Tibetan and Qiang cultures add depth, with opportunities to savor local cuisine and witness traditions like the annual Mountain Worship Festival. Whether you seek adventure or tranquility, Siguniang delivers.
How to Get There
Siguniang Mountain is accessible from Chengdu, Sichuan’s capital, via the following options:
By Private Car: The most convenient option, taking 4–5 hours (206 km) via Highway 350. A private car with a driver costs ¥600–1,000 round-trip, depending on the vehicle and stops. Many tour operators, like China Discovery, offer guided transfers with stops at attractions like Dujiangyan or Wolong Panda Base.
By Bus: Buses depart from Chengdu’s Chadianzi Bus Station to Xiaojin County or Siguniangshan Town (Rilong), taking 5–7 hours. Tickets cost ¥100–130. Inform the driver to stop at Siguniangshan Town, as most buses continue to Xiaojin. Book in advance via ETripChina or similar platforms, as schedules vary.
By Shared Taxi: Available near Chadianzi Bus Station, shared taxis cost ¥100–200 per person but require negotiation. They’re faster than buses but less reliable for non-Chinese speakers.
Scenic Route (G318): For a road trip, take the G318 Sichuan-Tibet route, known for its stunning views of the Tibetan Plateau. This is ideal for those combining Siguniang with other western Sichuan destinations like Danba or Kangding.
Tip: There’s no airport or train station near Siguniang. Private cars are recommended for flexibility, especially for groups or trekkers with gear.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April–June): Mild weather (10–20°C), blooming wildflowers (azaleas, primroses), and moderate rainfall make this ideal for hiking and photography.
Autumn (September–November): Clear skies, vibrant foliage (golden and red hues), and comfortable temperatures (5–15°C) are perfect for trekking and summit attempts. This is the peak season.
Summer (July–August): Warmer days (up to 19°C) but heavy rain (June–August peak) can cause landslides and muddy trails. Suitable for casual visits but less ideal for serious trekking.
Winter (December–March): Cold (–15°C to 2°C) with snow-covered peaks, ideal for ice climbing in Shuangqiao Valley or snow scenery. Accessibility may be limited, and preparation for harsh weather is essential.
Note: The high altitude (3,200–6,250 m) means unpredictable weather. Check forecasts and pack layers. Autumn is best for clear summit views.
Tickets and Opening Hours
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM–5:00 PM (valleys); summit treks require early starts (4:00 AM for sunrise).
Ticket Prices (per valley): Shuangqiao Valley: ¥80 (includes sightseeing bus); Changping Valley: ¥70; Haizi Valley: ¥60; Combo tickets: ¥200 for all three valleys (valid for multiple days). Climbing permits (Dafeng/Erfeng): ¥300, required from Sichuan Mountaineering Association, takes one week to process.
Booking: Purchase tickets at the entrance or via platforms like Trip.com. Book climbing permits and guided tours in advance, especially during peak seasons (May, October).
Note: From June 1, 2024, daily hiker limits apply: 180 for Dafeng, 80 for Erfeng. Overnight trekking requires advance registration.
What to See and Do
Siguniang Mountain’s core attractions are its four peaks and three valleys, each offering unique experiences:
Shuangqiao Valley (Shuangqiaogou): Best for: Sightseeing, families, seniors. Features: 34.8 km of stunning scenery with snow-capped peaks, lakes, and virgin forests. Highlights include Alai’s Book House, high-altitude rafting, and birch groves. Access: Sightseeing buses cover the valley, stopping at key viewpoints. Takes 4–6 hours for a full tour. Winter bonus: Ice climbing on frozen waterfalls.
Changping Valley (Changpinggou): Best for: Hiking, photography. Features: A 29-km trail with alpine meadows, forests, and views of Yaomei Peak. Key spots include Ganhaizi, Lianghekou, and Muluozi Campsite (3,760 m, overnight option). Access: Take a sightseeing bus to Lama Temple, then hike 6–12 km (4–8 hours). Horse rentals (¥100–200) are available for less strenuous exploration.
Haizi Valley (Haizigou): Best for: Trekking, summit climbs, wildlife. Features: High-altitude lakes, meadows, and access to Dafeng and Erfeng trails. Spots like Dahaizi and Guozhuangping offer serene views and chances to spot golden monkeys. Access: Hike from the valley entrance (8–12 km round-trip). Guided treks to summits start here.
Peak Climbing: Dafeng (5,025 m): A 2-day trek for beginners, 35 km round-trip via Haizi Valley. Requires a permit and guide. Base camp at 4,290 m. Erfeng (5,276 m): More challenging, 2–3 days, suitable for intermediate climbers. Sanfeng (5,355 m) and Yaomei Feng (6,250 m): For experienced climbers only, requiring technical skills and equipment. Yaomei’s first ascent was in 1981 by a Japanese team. Tip: Acclimatize in Changping Valley for 1–2 days to avoid altitude sickness. Bring crampons and warm gear for snow.
Cultural Experiences: Visit Tibetan villages like Yinke Village for traditional stone houses and watchtowers. Try Tibetan dishes like whole mutton barbecue or butter tea in Siguniangshan Town. Attend the Mountain Worship Festival (fifth lunar month, usually June) for local rituals.
Other Activities: Horse riding (¥50–150/hour) in Changping or Haizi Valley. Camping at Muluozi or base camps for starry nights. Photography, especially in autumn for golden foliage or spring for wildflowers.
Where to Eat
In Siguniangshan Town (Rilong): Local restaurants along the main street serve Sichuan dishes (spicy noodles, dumplings) and Tibetan specialties (mutton, yak butter tea). Meals cost ¥20–50. Recommended: Try noodle shops or Tibetan family-run eateries for authentic flavors.
In the Valleys: Limited options; some Tibetan families offer fried rice or noodles (¥15–30). Bring snacks (nuts, power bars) and water (1L minimum) for hikes, as convenience stores are pricey.
Tip: Pack a lunch for long treks, as facilities are basic. Avoid public toilets; use hotel facilities.
Where to Stay
Siguniangshan Town (Rilong) is the main base, with accommodations ranging from guesthouses to mid-range hotels:
Mid-Range Hotels (3-star equivalent): Siguniangshan Hotel: Clean, modern, ¥200–400/night. Near the South Gate. Cloudscape Hotel: Scenic views, ¥300–500/night.
Budget Options: Tibetan guesthouses: Basic but clean, ¥80–150/night. Ideal for cultural immersion. Hostels like Rilong Youth Hostel: ¥50–100/night for dorms.
Camping: Muluozi Campsite (Changping Valley) or base camps for Dafeng/Erfeng. Bring your own gear or rent in Rilong (¥100–200/day).
Booking Tip: Reserve via Trip.com or China Discovery, especially in peak seasons (May, October). Expect lower service standards compared to Chengdu; English is rarely spoken.
Tips for a Great Visit
Altitude Sickness: The area ranges from 3,200 m (town) to 6,250 m (Yaomei Peak). Acclimatize for 1–2 days, stay hydrated, and carry altitude medication (consult a doctor).
Gear: Pack layers, sturdy hiking boots, trekking poles, sunscreen, and rainproof clothing. For summit treks, bring wool socks, gloves, and crampons.
Language: English is limited. Bring a translation app or Chinese phrasebook. Hiring a local guide (¥300–500/day) helps for navigation and cultural insights.
Respect Local Culture: Ask permission before photographing Tibetan or Qiang locals. Respect religious sites and traditions.
Safety: Inform guides of medical conditions. Use airplane mode to save phone battery in cold weather.
Combine Your Trip: Extend your journey to Wolong Panda Base, Danba Tibetan Villages, or Jiuzhaigou for a 6–8 day western Sichuan adventure.
Final Thoughts
Siguniang Mountain is a gem of Sichuan, offering awe-inspiring peaks, pristine valleys, and a glimpse into Tibetan culture. Whether you’re conquering Dafeng’s summit, hiking Changping’s trails, or soaking in Shuangqiao’s vistas, the “Oriental Alps” promise an adventure of a lifetime. Plan for autumn or spring, prepare for high altitudes, and embrace the raw beauty of this UNESCO-listed wonder. With careful planning, your trip to Siguniang will be as thrilling as it is unforgettable.
Happy travels!
