Overview
Cross from Changping Valley to Bipenggou beneath the "Alps of the East," linking snow peaks, alpine lakes and pristine forest just hours from Chengdu.
About This Tour
Crowned by the 6,250m Siguniang (Four Sisters) Mountain, often called the "Alps of the East," this region of western Sichuan offers some of China's most accessible high-alpine scenery, only a half-day's drive from Chengdu. This four-day trek links the long, glacier-rimmed Changping Valley with the lake-strewn forests of Bipenggou by crossing a high pass between the two valleys. You walk past Tibetan villages and the white Lamasi temple, climb meadows grazed by yaks, camp beneath fluted snow walls, and descend into one of Sichuan's most beautiful primeval forests, ablaze with color in autumn and mirrored in turquoise tarns. The route is moderate by Tibetan-plateau standards yet still crosses high ground, rewarding fit hikers with a genuine wilderness crossing without extreme remoteness. It suits active travelers wanting big mountain drama close to a major city. Best from May to June and late September to October for wildflowers or autumn larch. This private tour is priced per person with a professional English-speaking guide and full trekking support. Itinerary may adjust based on weather, road and border-area regulations. Good to know: • Best season: May-June for wildflowers and late September-October for autumn forest colour; passes can hold snow into early summer • Fitness level: Moderate; expect 5-8 hours of walking daily with one high pass crossing on the main trek day • Altitude: Valleys sit around 3,200m and the connecting pass reaches roughly 4,400-4,600m; mild altitude effects are possible and oxygen is carried • Acclimatization: The drive from Chengdu (about 500m) gains significant altitude, so the first valley day is paced gently; hydrate well • Pack a warm sleeping bag, layered clothing, waterproof boots and sun protection; private tour priced per person
Itinerary
1
Day 1: Chengdu to Rilong｜Over Balang Pass
We depart Chengdu (about 500m) and drive roughly 220km (4-5 hours) west into the mountains via the Wolong Giant Panda reserve and the dramatic Balang Mountain Pass at around 4,480m, where viewpoints reveal the snow crown of Siguniang for the first time. Descending to the trailhead town of Rilong (about 3,200m), we settle into a comfortable guesthouse and let the body begin adjusting to altitude. An optional gentle afternoon stroll into the lower Shuangqiao or Changping valley keeps us active without overexertion, and the guide briefs the group on the crossing, gear and safety. The big altitude gain by road makes a relaxed first night essential. Overnight in a Rilong guesthouse. Dinner included.
2
Day 2: Changping Valley to Base Camp｜Temple, Meadows and Snow Walls
We take the eco-shuttle into the Changping Valley and begin trekking on the wooden boardwalk past the white Lamasi temple and Tibetan hamlets, then onto open trail along the glacial river. The route climbs gently through pine forest and broad meadows grazed by yaks, with the fluted ice faces of Siguniang's sisters rising ahead. We walk roughly 14-16km over 6-7 hours with around 600m of cumulative ascent, passing landmarks such as Mucuo Basin and Sun-Moon Mirror Mountain. By late afternoon we reach a high camp near the head of the valley at around 3,800m, pitched beneath snow peaks and waterfalls. This is the classic Changping approach day. Overnight camp. Breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
3
Day 3: The Crossing to Bipenggou｜High Pass and Primeval Forest
The crux day: from camp we climb steadily onto the high connecting pass between the Changping and Bipenggou drainages at roughly 4,400-4,600m, ascending around 700-800m over scree and alpine tundra with sweeping panoramas back toward Siguniang and across a sea of unnamed peaks. After crossing the col we begin a long descent into the Bipenggou valley, dropping through rhododendron and then magnificent primeval fir and birch forest threaded with turquoise tarns and waterfalls. Expect about 14-17km over 7-8 demanding hours with significant ascent then a knee-testing descent; horses carry group gear and oxygen is on hand. The contrast from bare high pass to lush ancient forest is unforgettable. Overnight camp or guesthouse in lower Bipenggou. Breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
4
Day 4: Bipenggou Lakes & Return to Chengdu｜Autumn Forest Finale
Our final morning explores the lower Bipenggou scenic forest on gentle trails and boardwalks, visiting a string of celebrated alpine lakes such as Panda Lake and the colourful pools framed by ancient firs that blaze gold and crimson in autumn. We walk roughly 8-10km over 3-4 hours of easy, scenic strolling, with the option of the eco-shuttle to spare tired legs after the crossing. Reaching the valley entrance, our vehicle meets us for the drive back toward Chengdu via Lixian and the Wolong corridor, around 250km and 5-6 hours with photo stops. We arrive in Chengdu in the evening, completing one of Sichuan's finest valley-to-valley crossings. Breakfast and lunch included.
What's Included
✓ Included
English-speaking professional guide and local support staff Private vehicle and transfers (Chengdu round-trip) Guesthouse nights and 1-2 nights camping as per itinerary Changping Valley and Bipenggou entrance, eco-shuttle and protection fees Pack horses for group gear on the crossing Meals as specified (B, L, D on trekking days) First-aid kit and oxygen support Camping equipment (tents, mats, group kitchen)
✕ Not included
International and domestic flights China visa Travel insurance Personal trekking and camping gear (sleeping bag, boots, poles) Tips and gratuities Meals not specified Personal expenses Single supplement
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
5★★★★★Based on 52 reviews
Greta Y.🇨🇭 Switzerland★★★★★2025-02
In hindsight, I expected Siguniang Mountain Changping-Bipenggou Crossing to be the headline, and it was. What I didn't expect was how much context from the guide changed what I noticed there.
Aisha V.🇩🇪 Germany★★★★★2024-05
Practically speaking, the route through Chengdu could be awkward to arrange independently. Having one person keep the timing straight made the whole thing calmer. For 4 days around Chengdu, the pace felt about right.
Camille G.🇧🇪 Belgium★★★★★2024-08
I underestimated how much standing the day involved. A short sit-down between stops made the second half much easier. I would keep the Chengdu outline as it was.