Where Nature Tells the Epic
For those who seek the sublime. Expeditions into China’s most epic landscapes, from sacred mountains to scenery that feels like it belongs in another world
wonder Journeys
The Three Sacred Summits
8 days
2 cities
From USD $ 1,154
Why this journey? A note from our founder
In the Tibetan tradition, some mountains are not just peaks of rock and ice; they are living deities, the sacred protectors of a region. To make a pilgrimage to their base is one of the most profound acts of devotion and a journey into the spiritual heart of the land itself.
I created The Three Sacred Summits for the traveler who seeks not just to see beauty, but to feel its power. This is a true pilgrimage, a journey high into the Kham Tibetan region of Western Sichuan, culminating in the breathtaking Yading Nature Reserve. Here, you will stand in the presence of the three sacred peaks of Chenrezig, Jambeyang, and Chanadorje—an experience that is both a physical challenge and a profound spiritual reward.
This is our invitation to undertake a journey that takes you higher, both in altitude and in spirit.
Signature Experiences on This Path
Make the Pilgrimage to Yading
This is the heart of the journey. You will undertake a challenging and breathtakingly beautiful hike through the Yading Nature Reserve, making your way past stunning alpine lakes to stand in the presence of the three sacred snow mountains: Chenrezig, Jambeyang, and Chanadorje.Live Among Prayer Flags and Lamas
Immerse yourself in the vibrant heart of Tibetan culture. You will explore the bustling streets of Litang, one of the highest towns in the world, and visit the serene Litang Monastery, a major center of Tibetan Buddhism and a place of profound spiritual energy.Witness the World of a Nomad’s Lens
In the high-altitude town of Xinduqiao, known as the “photographer’s paradise,” you will experience a landscape of dramatic light and shadow. We will ascend to a panoramic viewpoint to watch the golden hour light illuminate the rolling hills, winding rivers, and traditional Tibetan houses.Cross the Threshold of the Sky
The journey itself is a signature experience. You will travel by road across breathtaking mountain passes that exceed 4,000 meters (13,000 feet), witnessing a dramatic and ever-changing landscape of rugged peaks, vast grasslands, and deep river valleys that few travelers ever get to see.
Your Journey, Day by Day
Day 1: Arrival in the Land of Plenty (Chengdu)
Welcome to Sichuan, the legendary “Land of Plenty” and the vibrant gateway to the great Tibetan Plateau. Your journey begins upon your arrival at Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU), where our representative will greet you for your private transfer to the hotel.
The evening is yours to relax and acclimate before our swift ascent into the mountains. This is a perfect opportunity for an independent first taste of the city’s celebrated culinary scene. You might wander to the lively Kuanzhai Alley (宽窄巷子), where traditional teahouses and modern cafes sit side-by-side, and find a spot for a classic Sichuanese dish like Mapo Tofu or Kung Pao Chicken in the very city where they were perfected. Your guided Sinovistas adventure will officially commence tomorrow morning.
Accommodation: Selected 4-Star Hotel in Chengdu
Meals: None
Day 2: The Four Sisters & A Hidden Kingdom (Chengdu/Danba)
Our expedition begins as we drive from the plains into the high mountains to the magnificent Mount Siguniang (四姑娘山, “Four Sisters Mountain”). We will explore the beautiful Shuangqiao Valley (双桥沟), the most accessible of the mountain’s three valleys. A park bus will take us deep into the valley, from where we can walk and explore its breathtaking landscape of pristine forests, colorful alpine meadows, and serene lakes, all framed by dramatic, snow-capped peaks.
From there, our scenic drive continues to what is often called one of China’s most beautiful villages: Jiaju Tibetan Village (甲居藏寨). You will be greeted by the stunning sight of hundreds of traditional stone houses, with their distinctive crown-like roofs, clinging to a steep, green hillside. This evening, we gather for our official Welcome Dinner, a taste of hearty, home-style Jiarong Tibetan cooking in this beautiful and tranquil setting.
Accommodation: Selected 4-Star Hotel in Danba
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Welcome Dinner
Day 3: The High Road to a Sacred Place (Danba/Yading)
Prepare for an epic travel day. Today is a long but spectacular drive across the high Tibetan plateau, where the sky feels impossibly vast and close. You will watch the landscape transform with every mountain pass we cross, from green valleys to the wide, open grasslands of the high-altitude plains.
We will make a stop in the high-altitude town of Daocheng to visit the magnificent Daocheng White Pagoda (稻城白塔). This grand, pure white stupa, surrounded by 108 smaller stupas, is a powerful spiritual landmark and a place of devotion for local Tibetans. From there, we continue on the final leg of our journey, arriving in the evening at the small town at the entrance to the Yading Nature Reserve (亚丁自然保护区), with the sacred peaks now tantalizingly close. After the long journey, the evening is for a simple, restorative dinner and a good night’s rest to acclimatize.
Accommodation: Selected 4-Star Hotel in Yading
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 4: The Long Line: A Pilgrimage to the Sacred Lakes (Yading)
Today is the most challenging and rewarding day of our journey as we undertake the “long line” pilgrimage into the heart of Yading. We will travel by park bus to the stunning Luorong Pasture (洛绒牛场), a vast, idyllic meadow at over 4,150 meters, cradled between the three sacred snow mountains. With yaks grazing peacefully and a clear stream meandering through it, this is one of the most beautiful spots on earth.
This is our base for a vigorous, high-altitude hike to two of Yading’s sacred jewels. We will ascend a rugged path to the incredible Milk Lake (牛奶海), a basin of milky-blue water set in a dramatic cirque beneath a glacier. From here, we continue a short but steep climb to the Five-Color Lake (五色海), a smaller, more intense body of water whose colors shift in the light. Standing here, at over 4,600 meters, surrounded by the towering, silent peaks, is an unforgettable and soul-stirring experience.
Accommodation: Selected 4-Star Hotel in Yading
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 5: The Short Line: A Glimpse of Paradise (Yading)
After yesterday’s challenging ascent, today is a more relaxed day that allows us to appreciate the closer wonders of the Yading reserve. We undertake the “short line” pilgrimage, a gentler but equally beautiful hike to the magnificent Chonggu Monastery (冲古寺). You will explore this serene temple, nestled at the foot of the sacred peak of Chenrezig, with its prayer flags fluttering in the crisp mountain air.
From the monastery, a beautiful boardwalk path leads us further to the breathtaking Pearl Lake (珍珠海). This small, pristine pool of shimmering turquoise water sits directly at the base of the holy mountain. On a clear day, it perfectly mirrors the sacred, snow-capped summit of Chenrezig, creating a profound and awe-inspiring sight that feels like a true glimpse of paradise.
Accommodation: Selected 4-Star Hotel in Yading
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 6: The World’s Highest Town & A Photographer’s Dream (Yading/Xinduqiao)
We begin our journey back east, making a major stop in the high-altitude town of Litang (理塘), one of the highest and most important cultural centers in the Kham Tibetan world. Here, we will immerse ourselves in its rich history by exploring the Letong Ancient Town (勒通古镇). You will wander the lanes of the Thousand Households Tibetan Village (千户藏寨) and visit the historic former residence of the 7th Dalai Lama, the Renkang Ancient House (仁康古屋), a place of deep historical and spiritual significance.
After steeping ourselves in this vibrant culture, our scenic drive continues across the high plateau. We arrive in the evening in Xinduqiao (新都桥), a town revered by photographers as a “paradise of light.” Its idyllic pastoral scenery, with winding rivers, lines of poplar trees, and scattered Tibetan homes, is famous for how it catches the magical, golden light of the late afternoon and early morning.
Accommodation: Selected 4-Star Hotel in Xinduqiao
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 7: A Stone Forest, A Sky-High Steppe & A Bridge of Heroes (Xinduqiao/Chengdu)
Our final day on the road is a whirlwind of diverse wonders. We begin at the surreal Moshi Park (墨石公园), a landscape that feels like another planet. You will walk through a “stone forest” of dramatic, dark gray rock formations, their sharp, alien-like shapes creating a stunning contrast with the surrounding green hills.
We then ascend to the beautiful Tagong Grassland (塔公草原), a vast, high-altitude expanse of green that offers breathtaking, panoramic views of the iconic, pyramid-shaped Yala Snow Mountain in the distance. Our final stop is a piece of legendary history: the historic Luding Bridge (泸定桥). You will feel the sway of this legendary iron-chain bridge, famous from the history of the Long March, as you walk across its wooden planks, the Dadu River rushing far below. From here, we complete our loop, descending from the mountains back to Chengdu. Tonight, we gather for a celebratory Farewell Dinner, a final feast of fiery Sichuan cuisine.
Accommodation: Selected 4-Star Hotel in Chengdu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Farewell Dinner
Day 8: Farewell from the High Plateau (Chengdu)
After a final breakfast, your sacred pilgrimage to the three great summits officially comes to an end. Having journeyed across the roof of the world, from the vibrant energy of Litang’s monasteries to the profound stillness of Yading’s holy peaks, we hope you leave with a spirit that has been elevated and a heart full of awe.
Should you require any assistance this morning, from confirming flight details to arranging a new service like a private airport transfer, we invite you to contact your dedicated SinoVistas Trip Advisor, who remains at your service.
It has been our deepest privilege to share this path with you. May the peace of the high plateau and the strength of the mountains travel with you always.
Accommodation: None
Meals: Breakfast
Plan Your Journey
Dates & Prices
Start Date
End Date
Availability
Standard Tier
Start Date
End Date
Availability
Standard Tier
Pricing Notes:
Our starting price is based on a group of four or more travelers, sharing twin/double rooms in our curated selection of 4-star hotels.
For private journeys, smaller groups, or an upgrade to our Premium Tier with 5-star hotels, we would be delighted to provide you with a bespoke proposal.
A “Single Supplement” applies for solo travelers who wish to have their own room.
All prices are for the Land-Only package and do not include international airfare.
Ready to Begin?
Request a Detailed Proposal
Inclusions & Exclusions
What’s Included in Your Journey
-
Accommodation: 7 nights in carefully selected 4-star (Standard) hotels.
-
Meals: 7 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches and 2 Dinners as specified in the itinerary.
-
Transportation: All airport transfers and ground transport in a private, modern vehicle.
-
Guidance: A dedicated, expert English-speaking Sinovistas Storyteller Guide for each segment of your journey, will accompany you through each chapter of the narrative, ensuring seamless continuity and masterful interpretation.
-
Peace of Mind: Complimentary basic Accident Insurance for all foreign guests, with a maximum benefit of RMB 300,000 (approximately $41,000 USD).
-
Experiences: All entrance fees, workshops, and performances as listed in the itinerary.
What’s Not Included
-
International flights to/from China
-
Chinese Visa fees
-
Meals not specified in the itinerary
-
Gratuities for your guide and driver
-
Personal Expenses (e.g., laundry, drinks, souvenirs, etc.)
Essential Information
-
Activity Level: Very Demanding (Level 5/5)
This is a true pilgrimage for the physically fit and adventurous traveler. The entire journey takes place at very high altitudes (often exceeding 4,000 meters / 13,100 feet). It includes long and spectacular, but demanding, drives on mountain roads, as well as vigorous, full-day hiking at high altitude in the Yading Nature Reserve. A high level of fitness and resilience are essential. -
Accommodation
We believe where you rest is integral to the journey. In Chengdu, our standard tours feature excellent 4-star properties. In the remote, high-altitude towns of Danba, Yading, and Xinduqiao, we select the best-available local hotels or charming guesthouses that offer authentic character. Please be aware that hotel standards, amenities (like heating), and service levels in these areas will differ significantly from a major city. -
Transportation
This journey is a classic Western Sichuan road trip at its heart, relying exclusively on a private, modern, air-conditioned vehicle. This provides the ultimate flexibility to navigate the winding mountain roads, to travel at a pace that allows for acclimatization, and to stop for spontaneous photo opportunities in the breathtaking landscapes. -
Joining the Tour
This tour begins and concludes in Chengdu (CTU). Today is for your independent arrival. Your guided journey officially commences on the morning of Day 2. The tour concludes after breakfast on Day 8, which is your day for independent onward travel. -
Passports, Visas & Special Travel Permits
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your date of departure from China. A tourist visa is required for most nationalities. Importantly, travel to this Tibetan-inhabited region requires special travel permits which are separate from your Chinese visa. As part of your journey, SinoVistas will handle the entire application process for these permits on your behalf. We require clear, scanned copies of your passport and visa well in advance to secure them.
Important Notes
1. A Note on High Altitude: Your Health & Safety
This entire journey takes place at very high altitudes, starting from Xinduqiao (approx. 3,300m / 10,800ft) and reaching over 4,700m (15,400ft) during hikes in the Yading Nature Reserve. Your health and safety are our paramount concern.
Acclimatization: The itinerary is carefully designed to allow for gradual acclimatization. However, Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is a real risk for all travelers, regardless of age or fitness level. Symptoms can include headaches, fatigue, and shortness of breath.
Your Role: It is essential that you move slowly, stay extremely well-hydrated, avoid alcohol, and get adequate rest. Please communicate any discomfort to your Storyteller Guide immediately.
Medical Consultation: This journey is not recommended for those with pre-existing respiratory or heart conditions. We strongly advise consulting with your doctor before booking to discuss the effects of high-altitude travel.
2. A Note on the Physical Demands
This is a physically challenging journey. The “long line” pilgrimage in Yading (Day 4) is a long, strenuous, full-day hike at very high altitude on uneven terrain. The “short line” (Day 5) is less strenuous but still requires significant walking. A high level of fitness and sturdy, broken-in hiking boots are essential to safely and fully enjoy the experience.
3. A Note on Itinerary Flexibility & Weather
Travel in the high mountains of Western Sichuan is subject to the whims of nature. Weather can change rapidly and dramatically. While we make every effort to adhere to the itinerary, local conditions such as heavy snow, rain, or road closures may require your guide to make adjustments to the route or sequence of activities for your safety. Your flexibility and adventurous spirit are key to a successful journey.
4. Cultural Immersion & The Tibetan Heartland
This journey is a deep immersion into the unique culture of the Kham Tibetan people.
Cuisine: You will have the opportunity to try authentic Tibetan food, which is hearty and designed for the high altitude. This includes dishes made with yak meat, tsampa (roasted barley flour), and the ubiquitous yak butter tea. While we can cater to most dietary restrictions with advance notice, please be aware that options will be limited in this remote region.
Customs: We will be visiting active monasteries and sacred sites. We ask that you show respect by dressing modestly (covering shoulders and knees) when visiting these places and by being mindful and quiet during ceremonies. Your guide will provide detailed cultural context.
5. Your Digital Experience on the Plateau
Payments: While mobile payments are becoming more common, cash is still essential in the small towns and guesthouses of Western Sichuan. We recommend carrying a sufficient amount.
Connectivity: Access to many Western social media platforms and websites is restricted. Crucially, internet and cellular service will be very limited, slow, or completely non-existent in large portions of this journey, including in the Yading Nature Reserve and on the high mountain passes. Consider this an opportunity to disconnect and immerse yourself in the present moment.
6. Passport, Visa & Permit Information
To ensure a smooth journey, we require a clear, scanned copy of the personal details page of your passport and your Chinese visa no later than 45 days prior to departure. This is essential for us to secure the multiple, mandatory special travel permits required for foreign travelers to enter this Tibetan-inhabited region.
7. Tipping
Tipping has become a customary practice for rewarding good service from local guides and drivers in China’s tourism industry. While not mandatory, it is greatly appreciated. A guideline for gratuities will be provided in your pre-departure information packet.
8. Solo Travelers
We warmly welcome solo travelers. You will be paired with another traveler of the same gender for accommodation. If you wish to have your own room, a “Single Supplement” fee applies. Please inquire for the current rate.
Answer the Call of the Wild
Are you ready to stand in the presence of the sublime? Contact our specialists to receive our portfolio of expeditions or to begin crafting a bespoke adventure into China’s most breathtaking and otherworldly landscapes.