Yading Nature Reserve in Daocheng County, Garze

Yading Nature Reserve in Daocheng County, Garze
More Picture

Yading National Nature Reserve (四川亚丁国家级自然保护区) is a protected natural area located in the southern part of Daocheng County (稻城县) in Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture (甘孜藏族自治州), Sichuan Province. It was approved by the State Council in 2001 and is situated in the heart of the Shangri-La Tourism Circle in the Southeastern Tibetan Plateau, bordered by Yunnan Province to the south and adjacent to Lugu Lake (泸沽湖) and Lijiang (丽江). This reserve is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, ecological significance, and cultural richness.

The reserve covers an area of 1,457.5 square kilometers, with its scenic area spanning 1,072.3 square kilometers. Its geographical coordinates range from 28°11′35″N to 28°48′41″N in latitude and 99°57′40″E to 100°27′30″E in longitude.

Geography and Climate

Terrain and Landforms

The reserve lies in the Southeastern Hengduan Mountains (横断山脉) of the Tibetan Plateau and acts as a transitional zone between the highest level of the Tibetan Plateau and the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau (云贵高原). The area is characterized by steep mountains, deep valleys, glaciers, and a variety of rugged terrain. The prominent features of the landscape include high mountains such as Xian Nairi Peak (仙乃日), Yang Mai Yong Peak (央迈勇), and Xia Nuo Duoji Peak (夏诺多吉), making it an important site for both ecological and geological studies.

Climate and Hydrology

Yading enjoys a continental monsoon plateau climate, with an elevation range from 2,900 meters to 6,032 meters above sea level. Due to the considerable elevation difference, the climate exhibits significant vertical stratification. The climate ranges from temperate and warm at lower altitudes to cold and alpine at higher elevations, with substantial rainfall from May to October and a dry season from November to April.

The reserve has a wide range of vegetation types, from forests to alpine meadows, and it is home to numerous glaciers and clear mountain lakes.

Biodiversity

Yading is recognized for its rich biodiversity and is a haven for rare and endemic species of both flora and fauna. The flora includes 1,126 species of vascular plants, while the fauna boasts 291 species of vertebrates, including endangered animals like the Tibetan antelope and the black bear. The reserve also supports diverse species of birds, insects, and amphibians.

Flora

The area is home to a rich variety of plants, such as conifers like the Siberian fir, Spruce, and Juniper, as well as broadleaf species like the Birch and Alder. Notable protected plant species include the Golden Iron Lock (金铁锁), the Mountain Hellebore (山莨菪), and the Jade Dragon Fern (玉龙蕨), all of which are of significant conservation importance.

Fauna

Yading hosts a wide range of wildlife, including rare species such as the Yunnan Snub-nosed Monkey, the Tibetan antelope, and the Sichuan blue sheep. The region is an important sanctuary for these animals and serves as a living gene bank for species that have nearly vanished elsewhere.

Major Attractions

The Three Sacred Mountains (三怙主神山)

  • Xian Nairi Peak (仙乃日) – The northernmost peak, standing at 6,032 meters, it represents Avalokiteshvara (观音菩萨) and symbolizes compassion in Tibetan Buddhism.

  • Yang Mai Yong Peak (央迈勇) – The southern peak, at 5,958 meters, it embodies Manjushri (文殊菩萨), the bodhisattva of wisdom.

  • Xia Nuo Duoji Peak (夏诺多吉) – The eastern peak, also at 5,958 meters, represents Vajrapani (金刚手菩萨) and symbolizes strength.

These three peaks are the spiritual heart of Yading, revered by Tibetan Buddhists as sacred mountains.

The Three Sacred Lakes (三大圣湖)

  • Milk Lake (牛奶海, Erong Cuo) – Located at 4,600 meters, this glacier lake is named for its milky white appearance. It lies at the foot of Yang Mai Yong Peak.

  • Pearl Lake (珍珠海, Zhuoma La Cuo) – A serene lake formed by snowmelt from Xian Nairi Peak, it is the lowest of the three sacred lakes at 4,100 meters.

  • Five Color Lake (五色海, Danzeng Cuo) – Named for its rainbow-colored hues caused by light refraction, this lake is situated between Xian Nairi and Yang Mai Yong.

Luo Rong Niu Chang (洛绒牛场)

A high-altitude pasture at 4,150 meters, offering the best view of the three sacred peaks. It is a popular destination for those wishing to photograph the mountains.

Chong Gu Meadow (冲古草甸)

This picturesque meadow, surrounded by forests and streams, is a perfect place for sightseeing and provides an excellent view of Xian Nairi and Xia Nuo Duoji peaks.

Chong Gu Monastery (冲古寺)

Located at 3,900 meters, this monastery was established in the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368) and is dedicated to the teachings of Gelugpa (黄教), a major sect of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery is an important religious site and pilgrimage destination.

Seasonal Scenery

Each season in Yading offers a unique experience:

  • Spring – As snow melts and plants bloom, the meadows come alive with vibrant green grass.

  • Summer – The area is lush and verdant, with clear blue skies and the reflection of sacred peaks in the lakes.

  • Autumn – The landscape turns golden with aspens and colorful meadows, perfect for photography.

  • Winter – A snowy wonderland, with pristine white landscapes and crystal-clear air, creating a magical atmosphere.

Ecological Protection and Development

Yading National Nature Reserve is actively engaged in conservation efforts, including ecological restoration projects. In 2023, over 500 kg of flower seeds were sown, and more than 300 trees were planted. The reserve is also committed to waste management and controlling tourist numbers to minimize ecological impact.

Cultural Significance

The reserve is deeply embedded in Tibetan culture, particularly in Tibetan Buddhism (藏传佛教). The local Tibetans practice various religious rituals, including mountain worship, lake offerings, and the display of prayer flags. The Tibetan opera (藏戏), Guozhuang Dance (锅庄舞), and Xianzi Dance (弦子舞) are traditional cultural expressions often performed during religious festivals.

Travel Information

Transportation

  • By Car: From Chengdu (成都), the drive to Yading takes around 2 days and covers a distance of 1,700 km via the 318 National Highway.

  • By Air: The Daocheng Yading Airport (稻城亚丁机场) is the highest civilian airport in the world, with direct flights from Chengdu. From the airport, travelers can take a shuttle to Daocheng Town, and then transfer to the scenic area.

Accommodations

  • Rui Song Gong Bu Hotel (日松贡布酒店) – The only 5-star hotel in Shangri-La Town (香格里拉镇), offering luxurious services and breathtaking views.

  • Ramada Encore Hotel (华美达安可酒店) – A comfortable 4-star option with convenient access to the scenic area.

  • Jin Zhu Hotel (金珠大酒店) – A well-known local guesthouse offering excellent value for money.

Opening Hours and Ticket Prices

  • Opening Hours: 6:50 AM to 4:40 PM for ticket sales, with sightseeing buses running from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

  • Ticket Prices: 146 CNY during peak season (April to November) and 120 CNY in the off-season (December to March). Discounts are available for students, seniors, and other special groups.

Dining

Visitors are advised to bring their own snacks as the park provides free hot water and designated areas for waste collection.