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Sichuan Travel Guide More Than Pandas

Jia’ermengcuo

Jia’ermengcuo is an unspoiled wilderness tucked in the snow mountain of Western Sichuan. Its Tibetan name means “lake blooming with wildflowers”. It is situated in Shangmeng Village, Li County, boasting diverse landscapes including alpine lakes, primeval forests, red rocks and waterfalls.

Jia’ermengcuo
Jia’ermengcuo

Jia’ermengcuo
Jia’ermengcuo

Jia’ermengcuo
Jia’ermengcuo

Jia’ermengcuo
Jia’ermengcuo

Location

Jiaermengcuo is located in Mengtun Village, Li County, Ngawa Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture. It is around 190 km from Chengdu, approximately a 3–4 hour drive.

Highlights

Jia’ermengcuo Lake, the trekking destination, is the largest alpine lake in Li County, sitting at an altitude of roughly 4,250 metres. The lake water is crystal clear. Wildflowers bloom along the lakeshore in summer, while the surface freezes into a smooth mirror in winter, presenting distinctive scenery in different seasons. This place can only be accessed by foot. It’s a good and challenging hikig place. The trekking trail winds through dense primeval forests. Along the way you will see red rocks, forming a vivid contrast against streams and green trees. The view becomes especially spectacular in autumn when matched with colourful fall foliage. Erna Waterfall is another highlight. In winter, the waterfall freezes into an icefall.

Trekking Suggestions

Short route to Erna Waterfall: around 5km, 300m elevation gain in 3–4 hours round trip with relatively gentle gain and gradual terrain.

Long route to Jia’ermengcuo Lake: around 17–18 km total, nearly 2,000 m elevation gain in 9–12 hours round trip.

Visiting Guide

Recommended time of visit: one day

Ticket Information: 30 yuan

Business Hour: all day (Some seasons may shut off)