Nestled in the heart of Songpan County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, the Huanglong Scenic Area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its breathtaking travertine pools, snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls. Often called a “Fairy Land on Earth” and the “World Jade Pool,” Huanglong’s vibrant, multicolored limestone terraces and pristine natural beauty make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventurers. This guide will help you plan an unforgettable trip to this magical high-altitude wonderland.
A Travel Guide to Huanglong Scenic Area
Why Visit Huanglong Scenic Area?
Huanglong, meaning “Yellow Dragon,” is named for its 3.6-kilometer-long valley lined with golden-hued travertine formations that resemble a dragon winding through the mountains. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992, the area is celebrated for its unique karst landscape, over 3,400 colorful pools, and diverse ecosystems. Home to endangered species like the giant panda and Sichuan golden snub-nosed monkey, Huanglong also holds cultural significance with its ancient temples and Tibetan heritage. Its proximity to Jiuzhaigou Valley makes it a perfect addition to a Sichuan adventure, offering a surreal, less crowded alternative to its famous neighbor.
How to Get There
Huanglong is located 370 km north-northwest of Chengdu and 100 km south of Jiuzhaigou Valley, in a remote, high-altitude region. Here are the main transportation options:
By Air: The closest airport is Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport (50 km away, ~1.5-hour drive). Direct flights are available from Chengdu (1 hour, ¥300–800), Chongqing, Xi’an, and other major cities. From the airport, take a taxi (~¥100–150) or shuttle bus to Huanglong. Pre-book private transfers for convenience.
By High-Speed Train: Take a high-speed train from Chengdu to Zhenjiangguan Station (1.5 hours, ¥80–150). From there, it’s a 1.5–2-hour drive to Huanglong by private car or taxi (~¥200–300). Trains are comfortable and scenic, making this a popular option.
By Bus: From Chengdu Chadianzi Bus Station, buses to Jiuzhaigou (8–10 hours, ¥100–150) pass near Huanglong. Transfer at Chuanzhusi Town (40-minute van ride, ¥20) or take a direct Huanglong bus (6–7 hours, ¥120). From Jiuzhaigou, a daily shuttle bus (7:00–7:30 AM, ¥45 return, 2.5 hours) connects to Huanglong, returning around 3:30 PM.
By Private Car/Taxi: Renting a private car from Jiuzhaigou (¥300–500 round-trip) or Chengdu (¥800–1200) offers flexibility and scenic stops. The winding mountain roads reach altitudes over 4,000 meters, so ensure your driver is experienced.
Tip: Combine Huanglong with Jiuzhaigou for a 3–5-day itinerary. Book transport in advance, especially during peak seasons, as buses and shuttles fill quickly.
Best Time to Visit
Autumn (September–October): The ideal time, with vibrant pool colors, golden foliage, and mild weather (5–15°C). Perfect for photography but avoid National Day (first week of October) due to crowds.
Spring (April–June): Lush greenery, blooming flowers, and flowing waterfalls, though some pools may be dry. Temperatures range from 0–12°C.
Summer (July–August): Warm (up to 16°C) but rainy, with misty mornings. The pools are full, but trails can be slippery.
Winter (December–March): Snow-covered landscapes are magical, but the valley is often closed due to icy conditions. Check opening status before planning.
Weather Note: Huanglong’s altitude (1,700–5,588 m) means cold, changeable weather. Pack layers, waterproof gear, and sunscreen, as UV rays are strong.
Tickets and Opening Hours
Opening Hours: April–November: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM); December–March: Often closed; confirm with the official website (www.huanglong.com).
Ticket Prices: Peak season (April–November): ¥170 (park entry) + ¥80 (cable car, optional); Off-season (December–March, if open): ¥60 (park entry); Free for children under 1.2 meters; discounts for students and seniors (60+). Combo tickets with Jiuzhaigou are sometimes available via tour operators.
Booking: Purchase tickets on-site or through platforms like Trip.com or Ctrip. Book cable car tickets in advance during peak seasons to avoid queues.
What to See and Do
Huanglong Scenic Area spans 700 square kilometers, with Huanglong Valley and Muni Valley as its main zones. Most attractions are accessible via wooden boardwalks or cable cars. Key highlights include:
Huanglong Valley (Yellow Dragon Gully): The 3.6-km valley is the heart of Huanglong, featuring over 3,400 travertine pools in vibrant hues of yellow, green, blue, and red. The Five-Color Pond at the northern end is the most iconic, resembling a dragon’s head with crystal-clear, multicolored water. Other attractions include Yingbin (Welcoming Guests) Ponds, Feipuliuhui (Glowing Waterfall), and Penjing (Miniascape) Ponds, each showcasing unique limestone formations. The valley’s boardwalk takes 3–5 hours to explore fully, with stunning views of snow-capped peaks like Xuebaoding (5,588 m).
Huanglong Temple: A centuries-old Tibetan Buddhist temple at the foot of Xuebaoding, divided into front, middle, and rear sections. The rear temple hosts a lively temple fair on the 15th day of the sixth lunar month, attracting Tibetan and Qiang locals. The nearby Yellow Dragon Cave features stalactites and Ming Dynasty Buddha statues coated in lime deposits.
Muni Valley: Includes Erdao Lake, a tranquil lake with seasonal color changes, and Zhaga Waterfall, the world’s tallest calcified waterfall at 104 meters. Water flows around trees, creating a surreal scene. Less crowded than Huanglong Valley, ideal for those seeking solitude.
Outdoor Activities: Hiking: Two main routes: Route 1 (Hike Up and Down): For fit travelers, takes 5–6 hours, covering all attractions twice. Riskier for altitude sickness. Route 2 (Cable Car Up, Hike Down): Recommended, takes 3–5 hours. Ride the cable car (7 minutes) to the top, visit the Five-Color Pond, and walk down to see waterfalls and ponds. Photography: The pools, mountains, and temples offer endless opportunities, especially in autumn. Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for rare species like the Sichuan golden snub-nosed monkey, though pandas are elusive.
Cultural Experiences: Visit during the Huanglong Temple Fair (mid-July) to see traditional Tibetan and Qiang performances, costumes, and rituals. Explore nearby Songpan Ancient Town (56 km away) for Ming Dynasty architecture and horse trekking.
Where to Eat
Inside the Park: Cuckoo Forest Rest Station (near Huanglong Temple) offers ethnic snacks like Tibetan barley cakes and yak butter tea at reasonable prices. Free oxygen bars are available. Stalls along the boardwalk sell snacks and oxygen canisters (¥15–30), but prices are high. Bring your own food and water.
Outside the Park: Bilaike Restaurant (near the entrance) serves fast food like burgers, pizza, and roast chicken. Visitors Center Second Floor Restaurant: Offers Sichuan and Tibetan dishes in an elegant setting, including spicy hotpots and thukpa (noodle soup). In Chuanzhusi Town (30-minute drive), try local eateries for grilled meats and momo (dumplings).
Tip: Pack snacks and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated at high altitudes.
Where to Stay
Near Huanglong: Hualong Hotel: A 4-star option within the scenic area, offering 154 rooms, Sichuan cuisine, and amenities like an oxygen bar and tea house. Rates start at ¥400/night. Guesthouses in Chuanzhusi Town: Budget-friendly options (¥100–200/night) along the main road, ideal for a quick overnight stay.
Jiuzhaigou (100 km away): Sheraton Jiuzhaigou Resort (5-star): Luxury with Tibetan-style decor, starting at ¥800/night. Jiuzhaigou Youth Hostel: Affordable dorms and private rooms (~¥50–150/night).
Songpan (56 km away): Emma’s Guesthouse: Popular with travelers, offers tour arrangements and cozy rooms (~¥100–200/night). Songpan Ancient Town Hotels: Blend of modern and traditional, starting at ¥150/night.
Booking Tip: Book accommodations early via Trip.com or Booking.com, especially for autumn visits. Many guesthouses offer tour packages to Huanglong and Jiuzhaigou.
Tips for a Great Visit
Prepare for Altitude Sickness: Huanglong’s elevation (3,145–5,588 m) can cause dizziness or fatigue. Start taking Rhodiola Rosea extract 7 days prior, carry oxygen canisters (available at the park), and rest frequently. Free oxygen stations are along the trails.
Dress Appropriately: Wear comfortable hiking shoes, layered clothing, and sunscreen. Bring a raincoat for summer visits.
Pace Yourself: The boardwalk involves 3–5 hours of walking. Take the cable car up to save energy for the descent.
Luggage Storage: The visitor center may have lockers for cabin-sized luggage, but confirm in advance. Alternatively, store bags at your Chuanzhusi or Jiuzhaigou hotel.
Eco-Friendly Travel: Respect the fragile ecosystem—don’t touch pools or litter. Follow park rules to protect endangered species.
Combine with Jiuzhaigou: A 4-day tour from Chengdu covering both Huanglong and Jiuzhaigou is highly recommended for a comprehensive experience.
Photography Note: The Five-Color Pond and waterfalls are best photographed in morning light. Tripods may require a permit for professional shoots.
Final Thoughts
Huanglong Scenic Area is a natural masterpiece that captivates with its otherworldly travertine pools, majestic mountains, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re hiking along the dragon-like valley, marveling at the Five-Color Pond, or soaking in the serenity of Huanglong Temple, this UNESCO gem offers an unforgettable journey into Sichuan’s wild beauty. Plan your visit carefully, prepare for the high altitude, and let Huanglong’s surreal landscapes leave you in awe.
Happy travels!
