A Hidden Gem in Western Sichuan: The Southern Genyen Route, Beyond Your Wildest Imagination!

Friends, if you're looking for the ultimate scenic wonderland in Western Sichuan, the Southern Genyen Route is it! "I can't leave the holy mountain, so take a Gesang flower with you~" Doesn't that line alone capture the romance of the Southern Genyen Route? No matter how many times I visit Genyen, its beauty always leaves me in awe. If Xinjiang or Switzerland are too far, but you crave grasslands and flower fields, the Southern Genyen Route is your perfect choice. The Southern Genyen Route stretches from Litang to Batang, covering about 230 km. A 1- to 2-day self-drive trip is recommended. Along the way, you'll find a rich tapestry of plateau landscapes: snow-capped mountains, forests, lakes, grasslands, flower fields, valleys, hot springs, temples, and Tibetan villages. It's considered the ultimate route for admiring snow-capped mountain scenery. Below, we'll detail the must-see spots along the Southern Genyen Route. Where to See the Flowers Summer is Genyen's flower season. Azaleas bloom freely across the mountains, in shades of red, purple, white, and yellow, like a colorful painting spread across the grasslands. Near Cuopu Lake in the Cuopu Valley Scenic Area, vast flower fields complement the snow-capped mountains and lake, creating an almost surreal beauty. Must-Visit Popular Spots 1. Eye of Genyen: This is a super famous spot on the Southern Genyen Route. From afar, it resembles a deep, soulful eye. Drone shots capture the round lake reflecting the snow-capped mountains, like a divine artist's palette, both magnificent and stunning. 2. Xiazetong Village: This is Ding Zhen's hometown. The village is peaceful and serene, nestled among the snow-capped mountains. Every photo you take here is a masterpiece. You can also camp here and immerse yourself in nature's charm. The village's wooden houses face Mount Genyen, surrounded by small wildflowers, making it a picture-perfect location. 3. Lenggu Monastery: "Lenggu" means "gateway to the holy land." This monastery, nestled between Mount Xiaozha and Mount Genyen, feels like a world apart. Breathtakingly Beautiful Spots 1. Mount Genyen: As the last hidden snow-capped mountain paradise in Western Sichuan, Mount Genyen's peak is covered with snow year-round, like a sparkling diamond on the Hengduan Mountains. The sight of the sun illuminating the golden mountain is breathtaking, even more picturesque than the snow-capped mountains in Daocheng. 2. Gedilamu, the Sky City: Carousels, snow-capped mountain lighthouses, and cliff swings create a romantic atmosphere. Take photos on the swing in a light-colored dress and watch your social media feeds light up. 3. Ranrika Village: This village feels like a Tibetan Shangri-La. Here, you can ride horses through the village, savor butter tea, and learn to braid colorful hair from Tibetan mothers. The authentic local culture, set against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains, creates a truly immersive experience. 4. Hangda Camp: A paradise for camping enthusiasts. Lie in your tent and watch the Milky Way rise over Mount Genyen. Wake up to a breathtaking sunrise illuminating the golden mountain, checking off a dream from your bucket list. On the Southern Genyen Route, you can swing at the foot of snow-capped mountains, roll around in grassland flower fields, soak in wild hot springs beneath the holy mountain, and take photos worthy of a National Geographic cover. Don't hesitate, go for it!