Daocheng to Litang: High Plateau Grassland Day Trip

This day trip heads north from Daocheng to Litang, crossing some of the most open plateau scenery in western Sichuan. You drive over Haizi Mountain, pass the Sister Lakes, and reach Litang, a historic trading town at 4,000 m. The day combines a visit to Litang Monastery with time on Maoya Grassland, giving a different landscape from Yading's steep valleys.

Sample itinerary

• 07:30 Hotel pickup in Daocheng and drive north
• 09:00 Stop at Haizi Mountain and Sister Lakes for photos
• 10:30 Continue through open grassland to Litang
• 12:00 Lunch break in Litang town
• 13:30 Visit Litang Monastery (Changqingchun Ke'er Temple)
• 15:00 Walk or drive on Maoya Grassland with distant mountain views
• 16:00 Return drive to Daocheng
• 18:30 Arrive back at Daocheng hotel

Good to know

The drive is roughly 3 hours each way on high plateau roads, crossing passes above 4,500 m; the day involves less walking than Yading but still gains altitude. Weather changes quickly, so bring warm layers, sun protection and water. Litang Monastery may close certain halls without notice for religious activities.

Highlights

• Drive over Haizi Mountain and its ancient glacial boulder field
• Stop at Sister Lakes and high-altitude viewpoints
• Visit Litang Monastery, a major Gelugpa center on the plateau
• Walk on Maoya Grassland with views of distant nomad camps

What’s included

• English-speaking guide
• Private air-conditioned vehicle
• Litang Monastery entrance ticket
• Bottled water
• Travel insurance

What’s not included

• Personal expenses and gratuities (tips)
• Meals arranged on your own outside the itinerary
• Optional activities and attractions not listed in the itinerary
• Compensation for damage or loss caused by personal reasons

Pickup & meeting point

Hotel pickup in Daocheng city area, around 7:30 am.