Mount Siguniang Scenic Area

A Traveler's Guide to Siguniangshan National Park: Peaks, Valleys, and Alpine Splendor

Nestled on the eastern fringe of the Hengduan Mountains within the Qionglai range, the Siguniangshan (Four Maidens Mountain) Scenic Area presents one of Sichuan's most dramatic and breathtaking landscapes. This guide synthesizes essential visitor information with descriptive detail to help you plan your journey to this alpine wonderland.

An Introduction to the Four Maidens The park's namesake and centerpiece are four contiguous, snow-capped peaks stretching from north to south. They are poetically envisioned as four graceful maidens veiled in white gauze, eternally standing guard over the valleys below. Their formidable heights are: * Daguniang Peak (Big Maiden): 5,355 meters * Erguniang Peak (Second Maiden): 5,454 meters * Sanguniang Peak (Third Maiden): 5,664 meters * Yaomei Peak (Youngest Maiden): 6,250 meters The significant altitude of the entire region means visitors must be mindful of the potential for Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Adequate acclimatization, staying hydrated, and avoiding overexertion upon arrival are crucial.

A Paradise for Hikers and Nature Lovers Siguniangshan has earned a revered status as a trekking mecca. The classic multi-day traverse from Changping Gully to Bipeng Gully covers approximately 70 kilometers of stunning and varied terrain.

• The Valley Trails Hikers will navigate narrow, rugged paths through deep gorges, where the silence is broken only by the sound of meltwater streams and waterfalls cascading from glacial sources high above. The air is crisp, and the views of the towering peaks are relentless.

• Alpine Meadows and Beyond Upon crossing mountain passes, the landscape transforms dramatically into vast, gentle alpine meadows. In summer, these meadows explode into a colorful tapestry of wildflowers, creating a serene contrast to the rugged valleys.

Key Attractions Within the Park Beyond the major peaks and trekking routes, several specific sites are considered unmissable.

• Jiajin Haizi (Jiajin Lakes) Famous for its stunning reflection of the surrounding mountains, this lake is particularly magnificent in autumn. The foliage turns brilliant shades of gold and crimson, mirrored perfectly in the calm, clear waters, offering a photographer's dream.

• Ancient Tibetan Buddhist Culture Dotting the landscape are sacred sites, including Lama temples with histories spanning over 2,000 years. These cultural landmarks offer a profound sense of place and a glimpse into the spiritual heritage of the Tibetan communities in the region.

• Wildlife Encounters: The Giant Panda While not within the park itself, the nearby Wolong National Nature Reserve is a highly recommended detour. As one of the most important sanctuaries for the endangered Giant Panda, it provides a unique opportunity to learn about and observe these iconic creatures in a conservation-focused environment.

Essential Practical Information for Your Visit

Planning Your Journey: Transportation The primary gateway to Siguniangshan is Rilong Town. The most straightforward access is from Chengdu: * Take a public bus from Chengdu Chadianzi Passenger Transport Center bound for Xiaojin County. * Disembark at Rilong Town, which serves as the base for exploring the park's three main valleys.

Understanding Park Admission The park is divided into three main valleys, each with separate entrance fees. Ticket prices vary by season.

• Peak Season (April 1 - November 30)

  • Shuangqiao Gou (Double Bridge Gully): 80 RMB
  • Changping Gou (Long坪 Gully): 70 RMB
  • Haizi Gou (海子 Gully): 60 RMB

• Low Season (December 1 - March 31)

  • Shuangqiao Gou: 50 RMB
  • Changping Gou: 50 RMB
  • Haizi Gou: 20 RMB

• Discounts and Exemptions

  • Half-price tickets are available for full-time students, adolescents (7-18 years), children over 1.2m, seniors aged 60-64, and certified religious personnel.
  • Free admission is granted to children under 6, seniors over 65, seniors 60+ on non-national holidays, active/retired military, disabled persons, and others meeting specific policy criteria. Always carry valid ID for proof.

• Additional Required Fees

  • Sightseeing Buses: Shuangqiao Gully (70 RMB/person); Changping Gully (20 RMB/person).
  • "Outdoor Activity" Ticket: For specialized trekking/climbing. 150 RMB for a 3-day base, plus 30 RMB for each additional day per person. This ticket replaces the standard valley entrance fee for the chosen gully.
  • Note: All fee information is for reference. Please verify the latest official prices before your visit.

Park Operating Hours * High Season (Apr 1 - Oct 30): 07:30 - 18:30. Last entry at 15:30. * Low Season (Nov 1 - Mar 31): 08:00 - 15:00. Last entry at 15:00. * Tip: Operating hours are subject to change. Confirm with the park directly for the most current schedule.

Contact Information For the most accurate pre-trip inquiries, you can contact the scenic area: * Tel: 0837-2791999; 400-688-6250