"Little Switzerland of Western Sichuan" — Bipenggou
Bipenggou is located in Li County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, China. It is a natural valley at the northern foot of the Four Sisters Mountain, renowned for its pristine forests, snow-capped mountains, lakes, waterfalls, and meadows, earning it the nickname "Little Switzerland of Western Sichuan"!
Main Attractions and Features:
Dragon King Lake:
A glacial lake near the valley entrance with crystal-clear blue waters, surrounded by ancient forests. In autumn, the colorful foliage reflects on the lake, creating breathtaking scenery.
Namu Lake:
A high-altitude lake that freezes in winter, allowing for ice skating, while wildflowers bloom along its shores in summer.
Red Stone Beach:
Rocks covered with special algae that turn red, forming a striking contrast with the snow-capped mountains and streams.
Panyang Lake:
A core scenic spot at 3,676 meters above sea level, featuring clear waters and distant views of snow-capped peaks like Camel Peak.
Swallow Rock Meadow:
A high-altitude meadow at the end of the valley, blanketed with wildflowers in summer and snow in winter, perfect for hiking.
Best Travel Times:
Autumn (mid-to-late October): The foliage season, when the forests are ablaze with color, is Bipenggou's most famous spectacle.
Winter (December–March): The snow-covered landscape is picturesque, offering activities like skiing and ice waterfall viewing.
Spring and Summer (May–September): Rhododendrons and wildflowers bloom, and the cool climate makes it ideal for escaping the heat.
Nearby Attractions:
Gulergou Hot Springs: About a 30-minute drive from Bipenggou, perfect for relaxation after hiking.
Miyaluo Red Leaf Area: One of China's largest red-leaf scenic spots (best in late October, 1-hour drive from Bipenggou).
Four Sisters Mountain: A cross-country trek connects Bipenggou with Changping Valley (requires a professional guide, 2–3 days).