Aba Travel Guide: The Fairyland of Jiuzhai and the Queen of Mountains

1.Introduction: The Transition from Basin to Plateau Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, often referred to as the "Roof of Sichuan," is located in the northwestern part of Sichuan Province. Geographically, it sits on the southeastern edge of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, marking the dramatic transition zone where the Chengdu Plain rises sharply into the rugged plateau mountains. This unique topographical position has created a landscape of immense vertical diversity, characterized by high mountains, deep valleys, and vast grasslands. The terrain generally descends from the northwest to the southeast, with the highest point being the peak of Mount Siguniang at 6,250 meters. This region is not only a geological wonder but also a cultural corridor where the Tibetan and Qiang ethnic groups have thrived for centuries, creating a rich tapestry of history and tradition against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks and emerald waters.

2.Jiuzhaigou: The Fairyland on Earth The most iconic jewel of Aba is undoubtedly Jiuzhaigou (Nine Village Valley). Located in the Minshan Mountain range, this UNESCO World Heritage site is celebrated globally as a "Fairyland on Earth". The valley is named after the nine Tibetan villages scattered within it. Jiuzhaigou is renowned for its water, which is often described as the soul of the scenery. The water here presents an array of vibrant colors—greens, blues, and turquoises—that are so stunning they gave rise to the saying, "No water is worth seeing after returning from Jiuzhaigou",. The valley is shaped like a "Y," consisting of three main gullies: Shuzheng, Rize, and Zechawa. Within this area, there are 108 alpine lakes (locally called "Haizi"), 17 groups of waterfalls, and numerous calcified shoals. The Long Lake (Changhai) is the largest and deepest lake in the park, sitting at an altitude of 3,060 meters, reflecting the surrounding snowy peaks like a massive blue mirror. The Five Flower Lake (Wuhua Hai) is perhaps the most dazzling, with its lake bottom crisscrossed by ancient fallen trees that have been calcified over time, creating a "coral-like" underwater landscape. The Nuorilang Waterfall, one of the widest in China, creates a majestic curtain of water that thunders down the cliffside, a sight that is both powerful and poetic. The formation of these landscapes is due to the unique geological history of the quaternary glacial period and the high concentration of calcium carbonate in the water, which encrusts any object it touches, preserving ancient trees in the water for eternity.

3.Huanglong: The Golden Dragon and Jade Pools Situated in Songpan County, Huanglong (Yellow Dragon) is another World Heritage site that rivals Jiuzhaigou in beauty. It is famous for its "four wonders": colorful pools, snow mountains, canyons, and forests. The main attraction is the 3.6-kilometer-long calcified slope that resembles a massive golden dragon winding through the primeval forest. The Five Color Pond (Wucai Chi) located at the top of the valley is a cluster of nearly 700 calcified pools. These pools, formed by distinct travertine ridges, are filled with water that varies in color from azure to emerald and amber, looking like a palette of gems spilled by the gods,. This geological phenomenon is unmatched anywhere else in the world. The "Golden Sand Pavement" (Jinsha Pudi) is another spectacular sight where water flows over a long slope of yellow calcite, sparkling like flowing gold under the sunlight. At the head of the valley stands the ancient Huanglong Temple, encompassing Buddhist and Taoist influences, which adds a layer of spiritual solemnity to the natural grandeur.

4.Siguniang Mountain: The Queen of Sichuan Mountains For mountaineers and nature lovers, Siguniang Mountain (Four Girls Mountain) in Xiaojin County is a pilgrimage site. It consists of four continuous peaks that are said to resemble four beautiful girls. The main peak, Yaomei Feng (the youngest sister), stands at 6,250 meters and is known as the "Queen of Sichuan Mountains". The mountain is surrounded by three main valleys: Shuangqiao Valley, Changping Valley, and Haizi Valley. These valleys offer a vertical ecological spectrum, ranging from sub-alpine meadows and shrublands to alpine forests and permanent snow lines,. The scenery changes dramatically with the altitude, offering habitats for rare animals like the giant panda and the golden snub-nosed monkey. The mountain is not just a visual spectacle; it is a center for outdoor activities, attracting climbers who wish to challenge its steep, knife-like ridges, often compared to the Alps in Europe for their jagged beauty,.

5.The Vast Grasslands and Wetlands: To the north of the prefecture lies the vast Zoige (Ruorgai) Wetland, one of China's three most beautiful wetlands. This area is a sharp contrast to the deep valleys of the south. It is a flat, expansive plateau wetland characterized by meandering rivers and lush grass. The First Bend of the Yellow River is located here, where the river winds gracefully through the grasslands, creating a mesmerizing sight at sunset. The Flower Lake (Huahu) is a central feature of the wetland, a paradise for birdwatchers where the rare Black-necked Crane can be seen dancing among the reeds. This region offers a glimpse into the nomadic Tibetan lifestyle, where yak tents dot the horizon and the sky feels incredibly close to the earth.

6.Cultural Heritage and History: Aba is a corridor of history. It was a crucial region during the Red Army's Long March. The Snowy Mountains and the Grasslands that the Red Army traversed with great difficulty are located here, leaving behind numerous revolutionary sites,. Culturally, the prefecture is a blend of Tibetan and Qiang traditions. The Qiang people, known for their stone architecture, have built impressive watchtowers (Diaolou) that still stand in counties like Maoxian and Wenchuan. These tall, stone structures were used for defense and storage and are unique architectural marvels. The region is also dotted with Tibetan monasteries, such as the Geerdeng Monastery, which are centers of spiritual life and festivals. From the ancient Tea Horse Road that facilitated trade to the modern preservation of its pristine environment, Aba represents the harmonious coexistence of man and nature. Whether it is the roar of the Nuorilang waterfall or the silence of the Siguniang snow peaks, Aba offers a travel experience that touches the soul.