Day 1: Litang → Gela South Line → Zha Wala Pass
Cultural Immersion in Litang
Begin in Litang (4,014m), known as the “Sky City” and Tenzing Norgay’s hometown. Visit Changqing Kelam Monastery, the highest monastery in Sichuan, where the Three Treasures of Cold Valley Temple (mother deer antler, sacred conch, and heart-shaped stone) are enshrined
16. Don’t miss the Qianhu Tibetan Village, a 400-house complex showcasing nomadic traditions and handicrafts.
Scenic Drive Along Gela South Line
Follow the Gela South Line (260km), dubbed “Sichuan’s Ultimate 4×4 Route.” Highlights:
- •Tiejiangshan Pass (4,770m): Panoramic views of Gela’s granite peaks resembling “swords piercing the sky”56.
- •Nahai Lake: Twin alpine lakes flanked by wildflowers in summer; ideal for mirror-like reflections.
- •Yila Pass: Where Gela’s eastern face emerges dramatically, framed by prayer flags fluttering against glacial backdrops.
Zha Wala Pass (5,100m) – Gateway to the Gods
The highest point on the route, Zha Wala Pass offers:
- •Glacial Moraine: Jagged ridges shaped by ancient ice flows.
- •Sacred Rock Formations: Local legends speak of Three Ironsmith Giants who forged weapons to defeat demons, later petrified into peaks16.
- •Wildlife: Spot snow leopards and Himalayan vultures in the cliffs.
Travel Logistics
- •Transport: Mandatory 4×4 SUV (rental: ¥800–1,200/day). Public buses from Litang to Zha Wala (¥150) require 6-hour transfers.
- •Timing: Sunrise at Tiejiangshan; sunset at Zha Wala for golden-hour photography.
Risks & Tips
- •Altitude: Acclimatize in Litang (3,900m) first. Carry Diamox and oxygen canisters.
- •Weather: Sudden snowstorms in May–June; check road closures via 12123 Highway Hotline.
Day 2: Zha Wala Pass → Gela’s Eye
Hike to Gela’s Eye (4,200m)
Trek 5km from Zha Wala Pass through Rhododendron Forests to reach Gela’s Eye, a circular glacial lake:
- •Sacred Reflection: The lake mirrors Gela’s summit (6,204m) and neighboring Xiaoma Peak (5,807m), creating a “celestial eye” effect1315.
- •Botanical Wonders: Primula sikkimensis blooms amid lichen-covered rocks; Saussurea involucrata thrives in crevices.
Cultural Practices
- •Offerings: Locals toss tsampa (roasted barley flour) into the lake to appease deities.
- •Festivals: Visit in July for Gela Mountain Prayer Festival, featuring yak races and throat-singing rituals.
Natural Marvels
- •Hot Springs: Soak in Heguo Hot Springs near Gela’s Eye, heated by geothermal energy from glacial melt.
- •Rock Art: Petroglyphs of yaks and Buddhist symbols etched into granite slabs.
Travel Logistics
- •Guided Tours: Join local experts (¥600–800/day) for permits and safety.
- •Risk Management: Avoid loose scree slopes; use trekking poles.
Day 3: Gela’s Eye → Litang – Reflections & Farewell
Morning: Sunrise at Gela’s Eye
Capture drone footage of the lake’s concentric rings and snow-capped peaks. Best time: 6:00–7:30 AM.
Afternoon: Return to Litang
Retrace the Gela South Line, stopping at:
- •Lenggu Temple: Explore 1,000-year-old murals depicting the Bardo Thödol (Tibetan Book of the Dead)16.
- •Tibetan Thangka Workshops: Commission a custom scroll painting (¥200–500).
Evening: Litang’s Night Market
Savor yak butter tea, momos (dumplings), and tsampa porridge. Shop for yak wool blankets and silver jewelry.
Travel Logistics
- •Flights: Depart from Litang Airport (LGA) to Chengdu (2.5 hours).
- •Trains: Take the Chengdu-Litang Railway (12 hours), with stops in Daocheng and Tagong.
Essential Preparations
- 1.Packing Essentials
- •Clothing: Thermal layers, waterproof boots, UV-protective clothing.
- •Gear: 200mm telephoto lens, polarizing filter, satellite phone.
- 2.Cultural Etiquette
- •Photography: Ask permission before shooting monks or villagers. Avoid pointing cameras at prayer flags.
- •Dress: Cover shoulders and knees in religious sites; remove footwear before entering temples.
- 3.Health Precautions
- •Altitude Sickness: Gradually ascend; descend if dizzy/vomiting.
- •Emergency Contacts: Save 120(national ambulance) and 0836-110(Litang police).
Why This Journey Matters
This route unveils Sichuan’s dual identity—rugged wilderness and profound spirituality. From Zha Wala’s glacial grandeur to Gela’s Eye’s celestial reflection, every vista echoes Tibet’s ancient bond with nature. As a local proverb says, “Where prayer flags flutter, the soul of the mountains breathes.”
Pack resilience, curiosity, and reverence—your dance with Sichuan’s magic awaits!❄️🏔️