Overview
A two-day high-altitude trek to the secret, jewel-blue glacial lakes of Da'erpu, tucked on the flank of Sichuan's Mount Siguniang range.
About This Tour
Da'erpu is a little-known cluster of glacial lakes hidden on the side of the famous Mount Siguniang (Four Sisters Mountain) range in western Sichuan, far from the crowds. This 2-day private alpine adventure crosses the Balang Mountain pass into deep Tibetan-plateau country, with scenery that draws comparisons to both Xinjiang and Yading: rushing streams, fir forests, high pastures, alpine meadows, boulder fields, and a chain of vivid lakes set among encircling snow peaks. Day two is a demanding out-and-back trek from a 3,800 m start, climbing past the first, second, and third lakes up to roughly 4,600 m, where the deep-blue 'Mitang' lake sits like a gemstone in the mountains. This is a route for fit, acclimatized hikers comfortable with high altitude and rustic Tibetan homestays rather than hotels. Best from May to October. Includes an English-speaking guide, private vehicle, and a Tibetan guesthouse night. Itinerary may adjust based on weather, road and local regulations. Good to know: • Best season: May to October; conditions are cold and changeable at altitude • Altitude: trek starts at 3,800 m and reaches about 4,600 m, with a 550 km drive each way • Fitness level: challenging; high-altitude out-and-back hike for experienced, acclimatized trekkers only • Accommodation is a rustic Tibetan homestay (shared Tibetan-style beds, simple washing facilities), not a hotel • Bring altitude medication, warm layers, sturdy boots, and motion-sickness remedies for the long drive
Itinerary
1
Day 1: Chongqing | Balang Mountain to Xianghua Village
Meet at Jiazhou Road Metro Station (Exit 3B) in Chongqing by 07:00-07:30 and depart at 07:30 sharp. After an icebreaker on the bus, exit the expressway near Yingxiu around midday to stretch and grab lunch on the street. In the afternoon, continue along National Highway 350 through alpine forest and snow-peak valleys, climbing onto Balang Mountain with sweeping views over ridges and gorges and the thin, bracing air of the high plateau. By evening you reach Xianghua Village, a well-known waypoint and a sacred gathering spot for outdoor enthusiasts, where you can wander the streets and soak up the local atmosphere. Note: today is a long drive of roughly 550 km. Accommodation is a genuine Tibetan homestay with simple facilities and Tibetan-style beds, often shared. Meals: none included. Overnight: Xianghua Village Tibetan homestay.
2
Day 2: Da'erpu Alpine Lakes Trek | Return to Chongqing
Wake around 06:30 to the highland sunrise and reach the trailhead by about 07:00. Set off into the mountains on a route that unfolds through streams, fir forests, pastures, meadows, alpine lakes, and boulder fields, with scenery often likened to Xinjiang and Yading. This out-and-back trek begins at 3,800 m and climbs past the first lake (about 4,000 m) and second lake (about 4,300 m) toward the third lake at roughly 4,600 m, where the deep-blue Mitang lake sits encircled by green-fringed peaks like a jewel set deep in the mountains. Hike at a relaxed pace with plenty of time for photos. Return to the trailhead around 11:30 and board the bus for the long drive back, reaching Chongqing around 23:00. Meals: none included. Overnight: none.
What's Included
✓ Included
English-speaking guide Private vehicle & transfers throughout 1 night Tibetan guesthouse in Xianghua Village Local area management/registration fee Driver and crew support allowance
✕ Not included
International & domestic flights China visa Travel insurance All meals (arranged en route, paid locally) Optional mountain guide fee if needed for emergencies Personal expenses & tips
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation is available on most tours up to 24 hours before the start time. The exact cancellation terms for this tour are shown during booking.
Traveler Reviews
4.9★★★★★Based on 68 reviews
Mia U.🇬🇧 UK★★★★★2025-06
In hindsight, I expected the trail to be the headline, and it was. What I didn't expect was how much context from the guide changed what I noticed there. My only advice is not to shorten the time at the trail.
Elena F.🇸🇬 Singapore★★★★★2025-05
Practically speaking, there was no pressure to turn every pause into a photo stop. We could catch our breath, look around and move when ready. I would rather keep the pause at the trail than add another stop.
Liam Y.🇨🇭 Switzerland★★★★★2026-04
Expect uneven ground and a few sections where conversation stops because everyone is concentrating on their feet. The views near the trail repay the effort. With 2 days to work with, the balance felt sensible.