China — Chengdu
China's Mount Siguniang Trek offers a demanding 50km expedition through the Qionglai Mountains. This 3-5 day route traverses the dramatic Changping and Bipeng Valleys, showcasing the rugged beauty of the Hengduan system. Ascend through alpine meadows and rocky passes beneath the iconic "Four Sisters Mountain" peaks, culminating in breathtaking panoramas of Yaomei Feng. This high-altitude wilderness provides a pristine, remote mountain walk.
Distance: 50.0 km
Elevation Gain: 2500 m
Difficulty: Challenging
Duration: 3-5 days
The Mount Siguniang Trek is China’s premier high-altitude mountain journey—a 50-kilometre expedition through the Qionglai Mountains of Western Sichuan. Known as the "Alps of the East," this trek traverses the dramatic Changping and Bipeng Valleys, offering an unparalleled window into the rugged beauty of the Hengduan mountain system. The route is dominated by the four iconic peaks of Siguniangshan (Four Sisters Mountain), culminating in the majestic Yaomei Feng, which pierces the sky at 6,250 metres. This is not merely a walk; it is a high-altitude traverse that bridges two distinct ecological zones, moving from the lush, moss-draped forests of the Changping Valley over a formidable 4,668-metre alpine pass into the stark, glaciated landscapes of Bipeng Valley. For trekkers, it represents a profound challenge of endurance and acclimatisation, rewarded by views of granite spires, turquoise alpine lakes, and the deep cultural heritage of the Gyarong Tibetan people.
The Mount Siguniang Trek is a masterclass in topographical diversity. The journey typically begins in the Changping Valley, a long, glaciated corridor that serves as the gateway to the southern faces of the Four Sisters. The four peaks—Dafeng (Big Peak, 5,025 m), Erfeng (Second Peak, 5,276 m), Sanfeng (Third Peak, 5,355 m), and the "Queen of Sichuan Peaks," Yaomei Feng (Youngest Sister, 6,250 m)—form a staggering backdrop that evolves with every kilometre travelled. While the peaks themselves are the domain of mountaineers, the trekking route skirts their bases, providing a scale of landscape that is difficult to comprehend until one stands beneath the 2,000-metre vertical granite walls of Yaomei Feng.
The trek is defined by its transition. The first two days are spent ascending through ancient forests of larch, cypress, and rhododendron, where the air is thick with the scent of pine and the sound of the Changping River. As the elevation surpasses 4,000 metres, the forest gives way to alpine meadows and eventually to the raw, scree-covered world of the high passes. The crossing of the Kaza Pass (also known as the Changping-Bipeng Pass) is the physical and emotional crux of the journey. At nearly 4,700 metres, oxygen is thin, and the weather is unpredictable, but the panoramic view from the crest—looking back at the Four Sisters and forward into the glaciated cirques of Bipeng Valley—is one of the most spectacular sights in the Chinese wilderness.
This region is part of the Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuaries, a UNESCO World Heritage site. While the elusive pandas are rarely seen by trekkers, the biodiversity is immense. You are walking through a landscape that serves as a refuge for rare flora and fauna, including the red panda, golden monkey, and various species of pheasant. The trek requires a high level of physical fitness and, crucially, a disciplined approach to acclimatisation. Starting from Chengdu at 500 metres and reaching nearly 4,700 metres within three days is a significant physiological leap that demands respect and preparation.
The history of Mount Siguniang is inextricably linked to the Gyarong Tibetans, a distinct subgroup of the Tibetan people who have inhabited the valleys of Western Sichuan for over a millennium. To the local people, the four peaks are not merely geological formations but the physical embodiment of four sisters who fought a legendary general to protect their people, eventually turning into mountains to block his path. This spiritual connection is visible throughout the trek: colourful prayer flags flutter at high passes, mani stones (stones carved with Buddhist mantras) are piled at trail junctions, and the architecture of Rilong Town reflects the unique stone-masonry traditions of the Gyarong culture.
In the modern era, Mount Siguniang gained international fame in the 1980s as a premier mountaineering destination. Yaomei Feng, with its technical ice and rock faces, remains one of the most coveted and difficult climbs in China, often compared to the Eiger or the Matterhorn. The trekking route between Changping and Bipeng Valleys was historically a trade and pilgrimage route, used by locals to move livestock and goods between the different valley systems. It was only in the last two decades that it became a formalised trekking route for outdoor enthusiasts.
The establishment of the Mount Siguniang National Park and its subsequent inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2006 marked a turning point for the region. Conservation efforts have been balanced with the development of sustainable tourism, ensuring that the "Alps of the East" remain protected while allowing trekkers to experience their majesty. Today, the trek is a symbol of China's growing outdoor culture, blending ancient Tibetan traditions with modern mountain exploration.
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The weather in the Qionglai Mountains is influenced by the high-altitude plateau climate and the East Asian monsoon, creating distinct windows for trekking. Understanding these seasons is critical for safety and enjoyment.
Spring (May to June): This is the season of rebirth. As the winter snow melts, the valleys erupt in a carpet of wildflowers. The rhododendron forests, some of the most diverse in the world, bloom in shades of pink, white, and red. While the weather is generally stable, afternoon showers are common, and snow may still linger on the high passes, requiring gaiters and occasionally micro-spikes. Temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C in the valleys, dropping well below freezing at night at higher camps.
Autumn (September to October): Widely considered the best time to trek. The monsoon rains subside, leaving behind crisp, clear air and exceptional visibility—perfect for photographing the granite peaks. The larch and birch trees turn brilliant shades of gold and orange, contrasting sharply against the blue sky and the white glaciers. This is also the busiest season, so expect more company on the trail. Temperatures are cooler than in spring, with night-time temperatures at base camp often reaching -5°C or -10°C.
Summer (July to August): The monsoon season brings heavy rain, frequent mist, and a higher risk of landslides. While the landscape is incredibly lush and green, the peaks are often shrouded in cloud for days at a time. Leeches can be a nuisance in the lower, wetter sections of the forest. Trekking is possible but requires high-quality waterproof gear and a flexible itinerary.
Winter (November to April): The region becomes a true alpine wilderness. Heavy snow renders the Kaza Pass impassable for standard trekking, and temperatures can plummet to -20°C. This season is reserved for ice climbing and technical winter mountaineering. Most trekking operators cease operations during this period due to the extreme cold and avalanche risk.
Day 1: Rilong Town to Muluo Settlement
Day 2: Muluo Settlement to Chazi Valley Base Camp
Day 3: Chazi Valley to Bipeng Valley via Kaza Pass
Day 4: Bipeng Valley to Li County and Chengdu
Important Notes:
The Mount Siguniang Trek requires significant logistical coordination, primarily because it is a point-to-point traverse ending in a different valley system. Most trekkers base themselves in Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, which is well-connected by international flights. From Chengdu, you must travel to Rilong (now officially named Siguniangshan Town), a journey of 220 kilometres that takes 4 to 6 hours via the Balang Shan tunnel. It is essential to spend at least one or two nights in Rilong (3,200 m) to acclimatise before heading higher.
Physical fitness is paramount. You should be comfortable walking 6–8 hours a day with a daypack at high altitudes. Cardiovascular training and hill walking in the months leading up to the trek are strongly advised. Additionally, because the trek ends in Bipeng Valley (Li County), you must arrange for your main luggage to be transported from Rilong to the exit point or back to Chengdu, as pack horses generally do not cross the high pass.
Accommodation on the Mount Siguniang Trek is rugged and primarily involves camping. There are no luxury lodges or heated huts once you leave the trailhead at Changping Valley.
Camping and Shelters:
What is NOT Provided:
Navigating the permit system for Mount Siguniang can be complex for international travellers due to changing regulations and the requirement for local registration. As of the current season, all trekkers entering the Changping Valley for the traverse must register at the Siguniangshan National Park office in Rilong.
Permit Requirements:
Logistics and Costs:
Detailed route notes, maps, logistics & tips for the Mount Siguniang Trek (PDF).
Precisely traced GPX for the Mount Siguniang Trek, ready for your GPS or favourite mapping app.
The region surrounding Mount Siguniang offers a wealth of outdoor and cultural experiences that can be added to your itinerary:
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS): This is the primary safety concern. The trek reaches 4,668 metres, an altitude where oxygen levels are significantly lower than at sea level. Symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. The best prevention is a slow ascent. Spend at least two nights at 3,200 metres before starting. If symptoms persist or worsen, the only cure is immediate descent. Carry Diamox if prescribed by your doctor, and stay well-hydrated.
Weather Extremes: High-altitude weather is notoriously fickle. Even in summer, a clear morning can turn into a blizzard by afternoon. Hypothermia is a genuine risk if you are caught in wet, windy conditions without proper layers. Always keep your waterproofs and a warm layer in your daypack, regardless of how the sky looks at breakfast.
Terrain Hazards: The ascent and descent of Kaza Pass involve loose scree and potentially steep snow slopes. Slips and falls are common. Trekking poles are highly recommended to maintain balance. In the lower valleys, river crossings can be tricky after heavy rain; always follow your guide’s lead on where to cross.
Communication: There is no mobile signal once you are deep in the Changping Valley. Your guide may carry a satellite phone or a radio, but you should not rely on personal devices for emergency contact. Ensure someone in Chengdu or at home knows your itinerary and expected exit date.
Emergency Evacuation: Helicopter rescue is extremely limited and often unavailable in this region. Evacuation is typically done by horse or stretcher to the nearest road head, which can take 24 hours or more. This underscores the importance of conservative decision-making and having comprehensive travel insurance.
The Dead Tree Forest (Kushu Lin): Located in the Changping Valley, this is one of the most photographed spots on the trek. Hundreds of ancient larch trees were submerged when a natural dam formed a lake; their bleached, skeletal remains now stand in the turquoise water, framed by the snow-capped peaks. It is a hauntingly beautiful place to stop for lunch on Day 2.
Lama Monastery (Galsang Monastery): Situated near the entrance of Changping Valley, this small Tibetan Buddhist monastery provides a spiritual anchor to the trek. It is traditional to walk around the monastery in a clockwise direction (kora) to seek blessings for a safe journey over the mountains.
Redwood Forest (Hongshan Lin): As you descend into Bipeng Valley on Day 4, you pass through a stunning forest of ancient redwoods and larches. In autumn, the needles turn a fiery red-orange, creating a spectacular contrast with the grey granite cliffs and white glaciers above.
Moon Lake and Five-Coloured Lake: These alpine tarns in the Bipeng Valley are famous for their clarity and the way they reflect the surrounding peaks. The mineral content in the water creates vibrant hues of green, blue, and turquoise, particularly striking in the midday sun.
The Mount Siguniang region is a fragile high-altitude ecosystem that is under increasing pressure from tourism. As a trekker, you have a responsibility to minimise your impact on this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Core Principles for Siguniang:
