Imagine a place where snow-capped peaks pierce the sky, turquoise lakes mirror ancient forests, and vibrant Tibetan prayer flags flutter in the crisp mountain air. Welcome to Daocheng Yading Nature Reserve—China’s ‘Last Shangri-La’ and a bucket-list escape for adventurers seeking raw natural beauty.
Nestled in Sichuan’s high-altitude wonderland (2,900–6,032 meters!), this UNESCO-recognized gem shelters three sacred mountains revered in Tibetan Buddhism. Think of it as Asia’s answer to Patagonia—but with yak butter tea and intricately carved monasteries adding cultural spice.
Pro tip from seasoned hikers: While autumn paints valleys gold , summer wildflowers and winter’s icy serenity
make every season Insta-worthy. Just watch out for altitude headaches—this ain’t your average weekend hike!
Fun fact: The world learned about this paradise when National Geographic explorer Joseph Rock ‘discovered’ it in the 1920s. Today, over 1,400 plant/animal species (including elusive snow leopards!) call it home—proving untouched wilderness still exists.
Travel hack: Pair mountain vistas with immersive Tibetan culture. Stay in traditional villages, witness thangka painting workshops, and let local guides share folklore about the ‘Three Holy Peaks.’
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Daocheng Yading Nature Reserve, a paradise on the southwestern plateau
cgtn.com