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Sichuan Travel Guide More Than Pandas
Derge Tour

Dopu Valley (Duopugou)

Dopu Valley(or Duopu Valley, Duopugou), also known as Dopu Valley Nature Reserve. Dege Dopu Valley is a little-known natural wonderland with top-tier scenery. Hidden deep among the mountains of western Sichuan, it is praised by many visitors as "unrivaled in western Sichuan" for its unique landscape combining lush vegetation, clear streams, and snow-capped peaks. Although it lies only a few dozen kilometers from the bustling Xinhai Lake, it remains exceptionally peaceful, shielded by the surrounding mountains.

Dopu Valley
Dopu Valley

Dopu Valley
Dopu Valley

Dopu Valley
Dopu Valley

Dopu Valley
Dopu Valley

Dopu Valley
Dopu Valley

Dopu Valley
Dopu Valley

Dopu Valley
Dopu Valley

Dopu Valley
Dopu Valley

Dopu Valley
Dopu Valley

Location and Getting There

Address: Maisu Town, Dege County, Garzê Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province. It is recommended to drive there in small car. The drive from Dege County town takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. It is said that there is a direct shuttle bus from Dege Bus Station at 8:00 AM daily (about 30 RMB per person) but may only be possible in summer seasons. Paved road has been built deep into the valley but may be damaged during rainy seasons.

Highlights

Unique Virgin Forest and Canyon Views: The signature scenery of Dopu Valley features tall, straight fir forests in the valley, complemented by pastures, clear streams, and majestic snow-capped mountains in the distance—creating rich layers of landscape that are photogenic from every angle. The entire valley is an ecological canyon stretching over 30+ kilometers, filled with verdant forests as far as the eye can see. A Treasure Trove of Rare Flora and Fauna: As a nature reserve, Dopu Valley's ecosystem remains exceptionally well-preserved. It is home to 10 species of China's first-class protected animals (such as the white-lipped deer) and 35 species of second-class protected animals, as well as over a dozen rare tree species.

Planning

Best Season: Summer to early autumn (approximately June to September) offers the most beautiful scenery, with lush vegetation and abundant waterfall flow. In autumn, the forests are painted in vibrant colors; in winter, you can see streams flowing beneath the ice, offering a tranquil view. Mobile phone signals may be unstable in the valley; it is recommended to download offline maps in advance. The altitude is above 3,500 meters—be sure to take precautions against altitude sickness. Please respect local culture and customs, and do not photograph local residents without permission.

Visiting Guide

Recommended time of visit: half day to multi-days;

Ticket Information: 30 yuan

Business Hour: not specified all day open;

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