NO.1 Motuo County, Tibetan Autonomous Region

 
Motuo, which means "hidden lotus" in Tibetan, is located in the southeast of the Tibetan Autonomous Region. [sina.com]

Motuo, which means "hidden lotus" in Tibetan, is located in the southeast of the Tibetan Autonomous Region. Until this year it was the only county in China with no highway, and is a paradise for travelers and adventurers. Covering an area of 34,000 square kilometers, the mysterious Motuo County is mainly inhabited by the Menba and Luoba ethnic groups who have a population of about 9,700.

Starting from Paixiang, and passing through Lage, Aniqiao, Badengze and Damu, you can walk around the county in about nine days. Travelers should prepare well for the altitude, climate and tough walking conditions.

Travel tips:

Best time to visit: July to October

Admission: free

NO.2 Mount Qomolangma

 
Mount Qomolangma, also known as Mount Everest, is the world's highest peak. [xinhua.com]

At 8,844.43 meters, Mount Qomolangma, also known as Mount Everest, is the world's highest peak. It stands in the Himalayas on the border between Tibet and Nepal.

As the roof of the world, Mount Qomolangma draws millions of travelers and climbers to challenge themselves and enjoy the unique beauty. But because of the altitude, weather, wind and other difficulties, hiking or climbing requires special training and professional guides.

Travel tips:

Best time to visit: March to May or September and October

Admission: free

NO.3 Gangrenboqi Mountain, Tibetan Autonomous Region

 
Gangrenboqi Mountain in the west of Tibet, is 6,638 meters high. [xinhua.com]

Gangrenboqi Mountain in the west of Tibet, is 6,638 meters high. Hindus, Tibetan Buddhists and followers of the ancient Tibetan Bon religion believe Gangrenboqi is the center of the world and the most sacred mountain. Every year, thousands of pilgrims from all over the world gather there to walk around the mountain and worship.

Besides the pilgrims, the mountain also attracts millions of ordinary tourists. Hiking in the area not only lets you experience the breathtaking scenery also the local customs and sacred culture. It takes three days to walk around the mountain. You may need a special permit to visit Tibet and you should certainly prepare suitable clothing for the plateau climate.

Travel tips:

Best time to visit: June to September

NO.4 Daocheng County, Sichuan Province

 
Daocheng, a county in the southwest of Sichuan Province, is mainly inhabited by Tibetans. [lotour.com]

Daocheng, a county in the southwest of Sichuan Province, is mainly inhabited by Tibetans. Broad valleys, lush pastures and imposing mountains make the county a fantastic place for visit and hike.

Surrounding by snow mountains and forests, Daocheng is considered the last unspoilt Shangri-La. The three-day hike from Daocheng to Yading takes you through some of the quietest and purest natural scenery on earth.

Travel tips:

Best time to visit: From spring to autumn, Daocheng has many different scenes; especially in October, it will present you a wonderful and colorful autumn.

Admission: free

NO.5 Siguniang Mountain (Four Girls Mountain)

Siguniang Mountain (Four Girls Mountain) 

Siguniang Mountain (Four Girls Mountain) stands between Xiaojin County and Wenchuan County in the Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province. It covers about 2,000 square kilometers and consists of four continuous peaks, with the main peak reaching 6,250 meters. The mountains are covered by snow and ice all year round and are known as the Alps of the East.

Every year, travelers come from all over the world to hike on Siguniang Mountain. A popular route is from Rilong County, via Changping Village and Yakou County to Bipenggou scenic spot. It takes you three days and is a wonderful opportunity to experience Sichuan.

Travel tips:

Best time to visit: May and June, or September and October

Admission: 70 yuan for busy season (April - November), 50 yuan for dull season

Getting there: You can take No. 4, 75, 82 or 86 buses from the Chadianzi stop in Chengdu.