2026 Muli Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in March)

Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture in Sichuan blends Yi culture, highland lakes, satellite technology, and warm sunshine. The experience varies greatly by season: summer is a cool retreat for the Torch Festival celebrations, while winter is a warm destination to enjoy sunshine and hot springs. 🌞 Summer in Liangshan (June-September): Torch Festival and Cool Escape Summer is the most vibrant season in Liangshan, with an average temperature around 20°C, very refreshing. The highlight is participating in the Yi Torch Festival, known as the "Oriental Carnival." The 2025 Torch Festival activities run from July 11 to August 18. Five premium routes are officially planned for you to choose based on your interests: **"Colorful Liangshan · Summer Coolness" Wellness Vacation Tour** * **Core Areas/Attractions**: Xichang (Qionghai Lake, Lushan Mountain, Jianchang Ancient City, Dashiban Ancient Village) * **Theme Experience**: Lakeside leisure, ancient city night tours, watching the live fire show "A Re Niu" **"Yi Sea Alliance · Dreaming Aerospace" Study Tour** * **Core Areas/Attractions**: Xichang Satellite Launch Center, Yi Sea, Xide, Yuexi, Ganluo * **Theme Experience**: Aerospace science popularization, red history, Yi language and lacquerware culture **"Love in Daughter’s Kingdom · Exploring Shangri-La" Dream-seeking Tour** * **Core Areas/Attractions**: Lugu Lake in Yanyuan, Muli (Shangri-La Lake, Eya Village) * **Theme Experience**: Mosuo customs, highland lakes, Tibetan culture **"Sichuan Style & Yunnan Charm · Glacier Hot Springs" Cultural Tour** * **Core Areas/Attractions**: Puge Luoji Mountain, Ningnan Kaidilila Hot Springs, Huili Ancient City, Dechang * **Theme Experience**: Ancient glacier wonders, hot spring therapy, ancient city nightlife, Sichuan-Yunnan cuisine **"Passionate Torch · Enchanted Liangshan" Yi Ethnic Experience Tour** * **Core Areas/Attractions**: Zhaojue, Butuo, Gukede Plateau * **Theme Experience**: Pristine Yi villages, Torch Festival celebrations, alpine wetlands ☀️ Winter in Liangshan (December-February): Sunny Warm Winter and Hot Springs with Snow Winter in Liangshan is full of sunshine with comfortable daily temperatures, ideal for escaping the cold. Besides enjoying the sun, you can experience the "fire and ice" contrast: skiing at alpine resorts and warming up in waterfall hot springs. **Recommended Short Trip Routes** Choose weekend trips based on your preference: * **Youthful & Energetic**: Xichang Qionghai + Jianchang Ancient City + Zhaojue Gukede Ski Resort * **Relaxing & Healing**: Luoji Mountain Snow Scenery + Luoji · Jiujiumuli Waterfall Hot Springs * **Wellness Vacation**: Dechang Phoenix City Hot Springs + Huili Ancient City Slow Life 📝 Practical Travel Tips * **Transportation**: The most convenient way is to fly into **Xichang Qingshan Airport**, or take the high-speed train from Chengdu to **Xichang West Station**. Attractions are scattered across the prefecture, so it’s recommended to base yourself in Xichang and travel to counties by **self-driving or chartered car**. * **Accommodation**: Xichang offers many lodging options, each with its own charm near Qionghai Lake, Dashiban Ancient Village, and Jianchang Ancient City. Book in advance during peak seasons (such as the Torch Festival). * **Food**: Don’t miss **Xichang firepot barbecue**, **Qionghai drunken shrimp**, **Yi ethnic cuisine** (such as Tuotuo meat), and snacks like **Huili chicken fire noodles**. * **Notes**: Liangshan has **strong UV rays**, so sun protection is necessary year-round. Respect local ethnic minority customs.

When we capture nature with our lens, nature frames itself with us. That moment is eternity. ① Framing Ourselves with Namcha Barwa Peak 📍Tibet · Nyingchi · Suosong Village We stood on the giant rocks of Suosong Village, waiting for the sunlight to burst out from the mountains. The moment when the golden sunrise illuminated Namcha Barwa Peak and the Yarlung Tsangpo River was captured by us. ② Framing Ourselves with Anizhihei Peak 📍Qinghai · Guinan · Anizhihei Unlike the famous Namcha Barwa Peak, Anizhihei in Qinghai remains a secret realm. We almost reached the foot of this highest peak of the broadly west-tilted mountain, dancing in frame with the green hills and prayer flags. ③ Framing Ourselves with Longwu Gorge 📍Qinghai · Jianzha · Longwu Gorge The Longwu River flows into the Yellow River at Longwu Gorge, then rushes down, bursting through the magnificent Danxia Gorge, forming the fertile plains of Jianzha County. Near the confluence, we framed ourselves with the Longwu River about to join the Yellow River and the red Danxia landscape. ④ Framing Ourselves with Ranwu Lake 📍Tibet · Chamdo · Ranwu Lake In autumn, Ranwu Lake is surrounded by colorful forests and snow-capped peaks. We were fortunate to be here, framing ourselves with this beautiful scene. ⑤ Framing Ourselves with Guilin Scenery 📍Guangxi · Yangshuo · Li River That day, Guilin Yangshuo was wrapped in light mist and drizzle. We stood on a rock by the Li River, framing ourselves with the hazy and romantic Guilin landscape. ⑥ Framing Ourselves with Honghe Terraces 📍Yunnan · Honghe · Nimei Terraces Compared to the Yuanyang Terraces, the Honghe Terraces are hidden deep in the mountains, unknown to many. We were lucky to enter the mountains and meet the hardworking Hani people's achievement—the Nimei Terraces before sunset. ⑦ Framing Ourselves with Riqu Wetland 📍Tibet · Chamdo · Anjula Mountain Pass Did you pass by Anjula Mountain Pass on G318? We are glad not to have missed the scenery outside the window. Even the little-known Riqu Wetland timely showed us an unforgettable sea of stars view. ⑧ Framing Ourselves with Meili Snow Mountain 📍Yunnan · Deqin · Meili Snow Mountain Everyone should see the sunrise at Meili Snow Mountain at least once in their life. Winter Meili, the dry season snow mountain, the perfect sunrise, and our encounter together made this framing possible. ⑨ Framing Ourselves with Baishi Cliff 📍Gansu · Xiahe · Ganga Secret Realm The summer of Ganga Grassland and Baishi Cliff is both a fairy tale and a fantasy world. Holding hands, we enjoy this vast land together. ⑩ Framing Ourselves with Shangri-La Lake 📍Sichuan · Muli · Shangri-La Lake Shangri-La Lake was formerly called Cundong Haizi, but after we were fortunate to see the clouds part and reveal the colorful autumn scenery, it felt like a pure land in our hearts. ⑪ Framing Ourselves with the East Slope of Mount Everest 📍Tibet · Dingjie · Xilin Viewing Platform This is an area on G219 where desert and wetlands coexist. At the end of this area are the twin peaks of the world's highest Mount Everest and the fourth highest Lhotse. We stood at the other end of this area, thousands of miles apart in space but intersecting in a moment in time. ⑫ Framing Ourselves with Pumo Yongcuo Lake 📍Tibet · Shannan · Pumo Yongcuo At the high cape, we welcomed the deep blue Pumo Yongcuo Lake. The vast sky and earth bring peace to a distant heart and calm to a deep heart. The vast land echoes our small figures. ▶️ All photos were originally taken and produced by Mr. Dog and Caicai Juan'er. ▶️ The above content is summarized based on personal travel experiences; please forgive any omissions. ▶️ Due to timeliness, some scenes may have changed; please refer to the current situation. ▶️ All scenic spots visited by Caicai Juan'er and Mr. Dog are accessible by car. ▶️ Location information is provided by the website; for more details, please leave a message. 🔸🔹🔸 Follow Caicai Juan'er and Mr. Dog on a self-driving tour to deeply explore off-the-beaten-path travel destinations.

Muli Monastery is more than 300 kilometers from Xichang, hidden deep in the mountains of western Sichuan. Due to its special status in the Tibetan region, it is well worth a dedicated visit. I traveled from Xichang by minibus to Muli County, then hired a car to get there. 🌟【Must-See Highlights】🌟 📜 Long History and Cultural Significance: With a history of over 300 years, it was once one of the largest Gelug monasteries in the Kham Tibetan area and served as the political and religious center of the Muli Kingdom. Grand Buddhist ceremonies are held annually, with traditional rituals such as scripture chanting and cham dances still fully preserved. The Muli Living Buddha holds a highly respected position, second only to the Dalai Lama and Panchen Lama, making festival times especially lively. 🏯 Magnificent Architecture and Solemn Statues: The temple buildings are made of wood and earth, featuring a grand Tibetan-style fortress hall with golden roofs, colorful paintings, and overlapping corridors, creating a stunning visual impact. Outside the temple, white stupas, grasslands, and snowy mountains complement each other, offering expansive views. Inside, there is a nearly 20-meter-tall copper statue of Jowo Qiangba (Maitreya Buddha), cast during the Qing Kangxi era. The statue’s legs alone are taller than houses, solemn and striking. 📸 A Prime Spot for Photos and Scenic Views: Backed by a sacred mountain and facing the Litang River, the scenery is beautiful year-round—peach blossoms in spring and colorful forests in autumn. Nearby, the Manacha Golden Viewing Platform offers an excellent vantage point to gaze at the three sacred mountains of Daocheng. As early as the 20th century, American Rock made this place famous worldwide in his book "Muli: The Tibetan Gelugpa Kingdom of China." 🕒 Opening Hours: Open all day, free admission 📍 Address: At the foot of Daniyabu Mountain, Niyidian Village, Taoba Township, Muli Tibetan Autonomous County, Liangshan Prefecture, Sichuan Province 📌 Tips: The Gelug school, also known as the Yellow Hat sect, emphasizes discipline and academic systems. Muli Monastery is an important place for its heritage.

#hellohalloween Hidden deep within the mountains of Muli Tibetan Autonomous County, Sichuan, the Muli Grand Monastery rises at 2,600 meters, offering both serenity and splendor. Built in 1580 during the Ming Dynasty, this sacred Gelugpa temple beautifully combines Tibetan and Han architectural styles, creating a scene of timeless harmony. Its grand 20-meter scripture hall glows under golden roofs, while the walls display exquisite Tangka paintings that tell stories of devotion and wisdom. Inside, the 26.73-meter gilded Maitreya Buddha radiates peace and compassion, inviting visitors to pause and reflect. Open 24 hours a day, the monastery welcomes travelers to explore freely for 3–4 quiet hours, far from the crowds. Surrounded by misty mountains and chanting monks, Muli Grand Monastery feels like a hidden world where faith meets nature — a perfect retreat for cultural travelers seeking authentic Tibetan spirit and tranquil beauty off the beaten path.

Planning a family escape to Muli? 🏞️ Check out Xiangbala Hotel, a cozy spot right in the city center, loved by families for its quiet surroundings and warm service. Its prime location on Zhachang Street puts you steps away from Xiangbala Park—perfect for morning strolls or letting the kids run wild. The hotel is nestled close to the county government, making it both easy to find and super convenient if you want to explore local city vibes. What stands out at Xiangbala Hotel is the caring staff—front desk team members are always ready to help if you need directions or even a pickup service. The overall atmosphere is peaceful, which definitely helps when you’re traveling with little ones or just seeking a good night’s sleep. 🌳 Facilities are functional though some guests felt the hotel could update older amenities and improve ventilation to tackle strong room odors. Parking can be a bit tricky, so a quick call ahead or asking the staff for tips is a smart move. Cleanliness gets high marks, with tidy rooms that make settling in feel easy. Don’t miss the nearby photo spots—Xiangbala Park is the obvious pick for lush greenery and relaxed family pictures. For foodies, the city center location means tons of local eats within walking distance. 🍜 Use trip.com to grab the best rates and room choices. Book early if you want the quieter rooms or need extra help with parking. Muli tip: Plan a relaxed itinerary so you can roam the parks, enjoy the historic streets, and savor family time without rushing. #Muli #FamilyHotel #XiangbalaHotel #TravelTips #tripdotcom

Just got back from an epic escape to Muli, deep in the wilds of Sichuan, where jaw-dropping mountain drives and mystical kingdom vibes rule the day 🚗🏔️. If you want to ditch crowded routes and get some real nature + culture feels, Muli Kingdom is where it’s at! Top Spot to Visit in Muli: Muli-Muli Kingdom (木里王国) Address: Muli County, Liangshan Prefecture, Sichuan, China Opening hours: 8:00–18:00 Known as the “Shangri-La” of Sichuan, Muli Kingdom is packed with ancient Tibetan culture, stunning temples, and rugged landscapes. The drive into Muli County itself is an adventure, with views straight out of a fantasy movie — think endless green valleys, snow-capped peaks, and tiny villages you’ll want to photograph every mile. Pro tip: Stop often on the drive for pics and fresh mountain air! 🚙 You legit won’t want to rush through those views. Transport hack: Public transport is super limited, so renting a car makes all the difference for full flexibility. If you hire a local driver, you’ll get bonus insights into hidden spots — plus it’s way safer on those twisting mountain roads. Food rec: Try the local yak butter tea and Tibetan momo dumplings for truly authentic mountain flavors. Small restaurants in Muli town are your best bet. Essential tips: Bring cash (local ATMs are rare), pack layers (weather flips fast), and be ready for spotty phone signal. No visas needed for domestic travel if you’re Chinese, but always carry ID! #SichuanRoadtrip #HiddenChina #MuliKingdom #MountainViews #Tripdotcom

#mytraveldiary The Muli Grand Monastery (木里大寺), also known as Muli Monastery, is a significant Tibetan Buddhist site located in Muli Tibetan Autonomous County in southwestern Sichuan Province, China. Situated approximately 3000 meters above sea level in the Litang River Valley, the monastery is a prominent example of the Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. 🏛️ Historical Significance Foundation and Early History: The monastery was established in the early Qing dynasty, around the 17th year of the Shunzhi Emperor's reign (approximately 1660), and took about 12 years to complete. It was modeled after significant lamaseries in Tibet and was renowned for housing a massive golden statue of Maitreya over 10 meters high. Cultural Revolution and Restoration: During the Cultural Revolution, the monastery, along with other prominent lamaseries in the region, was destroyed. In 1987, restoration efforts began, and the monastery now houses around 80 young monks.

Deep in the folds of the Hengduan Mountains Lies the real-life version of "Lost Horizon" The untouched Eya Grand Village When muleteer bells pierce the sea of clouds Pushing open the wooden plank house door I felt myself tumbling into the living fossil epic of the Naxi people 200 households' homes interlock like Rubik's cubes growing together Shared exterior walls create rooftop sky corridors At dawn, you can step onto tiles to greet neighbors through windows An 80-year-old grandmother keeps records with knotted ropes by the hearth Witnessing plant-dyed prayer flag totems Suddenly understanding the azure greens of "A Thousand Li of Rivers and Mountains" Hidden all along in these mountain mineral pigments Retracing the romance of the Ancient Tea-Horse Road Follow mule caravans along the historic salt transport path Butter tea still swaying in woven back-baskets Looking up to see the Jinsha River meet the Chongtian River Turquoise whirlpools like overturned jade boxes Xichang - Muli - Eya route Depart from Xichang via Lugu Lake to Muli Then continue from Muli to Eya Township The long journey rewards with exceptional scenery Large temperature variations between day and night Bring warm clothing Strong UV radiation at high altitude - sun protection recommended Dry climate - bring moisturizing skincare items

The trip to Dindon Lake was a last-minute decision, but it turned out to be a stunning surprise on our Muli journey. Full of anticipation, we asked local herders about the way to Dindon Lake, but they just smiled and waved their hands, saying, "Dindon? It's just a small pond, nothing special." This dampened our spirits, and we almost changed our itinerary. Upon arrival, we were amazed to find that this so-called "small pond" was another hidden gem of Muli. Like an eye left behind by a god, it gazes tenderly at the world. The scenery that locals take for granted is the poetry and distant lands we dream of. 📍: Navigate to "Dindon" 🎫: Free 🔅: Altitude 3300m 🚗: 43 km from Muli County to Dindon Lake, half national highway, half rural road 📸: Photos were taken in late July 🏨: Camping is great, or you can stay in Muli County 🌟: You can walk to the lake. You can drive around the lake, and the panoramic view from the hillside is beautiful. ✨: Dindon Lake and Cundon Lake can be visited together; both are hidden gems of Muli.

I. Must-See Attractions 1. Mana Lake: The iconic landmark of Mana Chajin, the lake is as calm as a mirror, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and forests, creating a picturesque landscape. 2. Golden Grassland: This is an excellent location to admire the grassland scenery. During the transition from spring to summer, the grassland is covered with various wildflowers, resembling a natural oil painting. II. Itinerary Day 1: After arriving at Mana Chajin, visit Mana Lake and the surrounding snow-capped mountains and forests. Day 2: Explore local cultural relics, learn about the local ethnic culture, and enjoy the tranquility of nature on the grassland. III. Precautions 1. Clothing: Due to the changeable local climate, it is recommended to bring enough clothing to cope with cold weather. 2. Food: Taste local specialties such as roasted whole lamb and tsampa. 3. Photography: Remember to bring a camera or phone to capture the beautiful moments. IV. Recommended Experience Take a hot air balloon ride to overlook the panoramic view of Mana Chajin and experience the magnificence and vastness of nature. V. Conclusion Mana Chajin is a tourist destination worth visiting. Its natural scenery and cultural heritage are unforgettable. Hopefully, this guide can inspire your short videos.

Manachajin: The awe-inspiring sunrise over the golden mountain. As I stepped onto the 270-degree panoramic viewing platform at Manachajin, I knew that a feast for the eyes and soul was about to begin. At first, the peak of Mount Chalangduoji was faintly visible in the morning light, like a sleeping giant. As the sun slowly rose, the first ray of light, like a lively golden veil, gently brushed over the peak. In an instant, the peak seemed to be ignited, and the golden hue was dazzling, forming a stark contrast with the surrounding mountains still shrouded in darkness. As the sunlight grew stronger, the golden glow slowly spread along the ridge, as if a deity was sowing the seeds of hope. The texture of the mountain became clearer under the light, with each fold telling the story of time. At this moment, Mount Chalangduoji resembled a war god clad in golden armor, majestic and sacred, evoking a sense of awe. When the entire mountain was bathed in golden light, the feeling of awe was indescribable. The snow-capped peaks shone under the blue sky, pure and untainted. Everyone on the viewing platform held their breath, hands clasped together, as if receiving a sacred blessing. In that moment, all the troubles of the world vanished, leaving only the magnificent sunrise over the golden mountain, etched deeply in our hearts. This trip to Manachajin allowed me to appreciate the wonders and greatness of nature. The sunrise over Mount Chalangduoji is not just a visual spectacle, but a pilgrimage of the soul. Those who witness it are blessed, and I have cherished this blessing and awe in my heart, never to be forgotten.

Meet the Blue Moon - Sichuan Muli Autumn Travel Guide 🎈 ✨Why do you want to go to Muli? Of course, it's because of the stunning scenery! For those who have never been to Tibet but want to experience the scenery and culture of the Tibetan area, Muli is the "beginner's village." With an average altitude of 3,100 meters, it is not easy to get altitude sickness. There are large areas of primitive forest, and the air is full of oxygen. It's like a place favored by nature, full of surprises 💖. 🧷 🌈[Must-visit places] 1⃣Muli Monastery: This is one of the largest monasteries in the Kham region, built in 1656, with later expansions and renovations. The patterns on the exterior of the building are stunning. When you walk in, you can feel the strong Tibetan culture. However, when taking photos indoors, you must respect the local culture and not take photos randomly 📷. 2⃣Shangri-La Lake: Also known as Changhaizi, this place is super quiet, with few tourist convoys passing by. There is a small hill by the lake where you can climb up to enjoy the view. The meadow is full of cattle and sheep, and any photo you take is a masterpiece. You can also walk to the lake and pick a bunch of wildflowers to enjoy the beauty of nature 🌼. 🧷 🚗[Transportation Guide] You can take the high-speed train to Xichang Station, and then drive about 220 km to get there. If you drive directly from Chengdu, it's about 640 km. Although there are many winding mountain roads along the way, there are few social vehicles, so the drive is still very smooth. 🧷 🏨[Accommodation] Muli All Seasons Hotel, newly opened, is located outside the county, with a gas station nearby, very convenient. 🧷 🍲[Food] Tianma ham chicken, a must-try! It's on Longqin North Street, near a three-way intersection, on the second floor up a narrow staircase. I've been there several times, and the taste is amazing 👍. 🧷 🍄[Specialties] Dried mushrooms, Muli's dried mushrooms are very famous, you can buy some to take home. 🧷 💃[My feelings] The scenery here is really beautiful, like a painting. At Muli Monastery, you can feel the solemnity and sanctity. Shangri-La Lake amazed me even more, with its crystal-clear water reflecting the surrounding mountains and trees, creating a stunning view. Walking by the lake, it feels like time has stopped. The rest stop selling roasted potatoes and instant noodles, and the Bouyei father and daughter I met, their stories made me feel the simplicity and kindness of the people in the western mountains. The Tibetan snacks in the county are also super delicious, and the Tibetan Guozhuang dance in "Shambhala Park" made me feel the strong Tibetan style. In short, this trip was really unforgettable, and you must come and experience it 😘. 🧷

one, Wenchuan is a place full of vitality and vigor. It not only has a rich historical and cultural heritage, but also many beautiful natural scenery. As a shining pearl of Wenchuan, Songlin Bay attracts countless tourists with its unique natural scenery and cultural customs. The following is a travel guide to Songlin Bay in Wenchuan. 2. Travel preparations Transportation: Starting from Chengdu, drive along Chengguan Expressway and Duwen Expressway and you will reach Wenchuan in about 2 hours. After arriving in Wenchuan, you can choose to drive or take local transportation to Songlinwan. 🏠Accommodation: There are various hotels and homestays in Wenchuan County, which can be booked according to personal needs. There are also a few farmhouses near Songlin Bay where you can experience rural life. Food: Wenchuan has rich food, including tofu, bacon, native chicken and other special dishes. Don’t miss them. 🎫Tickets: Songlin Bay is currently open to the public free of charge. Some attractions may charge admission fees, which is subject to actual conditions. 👔Clothing: Choose appropriate clothing according to the season, and pay attention to sun protection and warmth. 3. Tour Guide Overview of Songlinwan Scenic Area Songlin Bay is located in the south of Wenchuan County, about 10 kilometers away from the county seat. The area is picturesque with beautiful mountains and clear waters, a forest coverage rate of up to 90%, and rich in negative oxygen ions. It is an ideal place for leisure, vacation, and health care. Main attractions (1) Pine Forest Plank Road: It is about 5 kilometers long and winds through the mountains and forests. Along the way, you can enjoy natural landscapes such as primitive forests, waterfalls, and streams. (2) Millennium Pine Tree: This tree is a thousand years old, with lush branches and leaves, witnessing the vicissitudes of Songlin Bay’s history. (3) Moon Bay: A stream landscape shaped like a moon, with clear water and beautiful environment. (4) Guanyin Temple: First built in the Tang Dynasty, the temple enshrines Guanyin Bodhisattva and is very popular. Tour route (1) Half-day tour: Pine Forest Plank Road - Millennium Pine Trees - Moon Bay (2) One-day tour: Pine Forest Plank Road - Millennium Pine Trees - Moon Bay - Guanyin Temple 4. Special Activities Picking experience: There is an orchard near Songlin Bay where visitors can experience the fun of picking fruits. Farmhouse: Taste authentic farmhouse dishes and experience the rural customs. Parent-child activities: Bring your children to get close to nature in Songlin Bay and engage in parent-child interaction. five, Songlin Bay in Wenchuan is a place where people will linger. Here, you can enjoy the gifts of nature and feel the beauty of life. Take action now and embark on this beautiful journey!

The Austrian explorer, botanist and geographer Joseph Locke once described it in the Kingdom of South West Gunner, China: "The entire Gongga Mountain Range and the Wuliang River were once ruled by the Naxi chiefs, during the Ming Dynasty Wanli Period. (1573-1619). There are many Naxi villages, collectively known as Russia, and the residents of the village are descendants of Naxi soldiers who used to defend those areas. According to today's administrative division, the Russian village is located in Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province. Lizi Tibetan Autonomous County is located at the junction of Yunnan Ninglang, Lijiang, Shangri-La and Sichuan Daocheng and Muli five counties. It is truly a chicken, two provinces and five counties.