Rock’s Route Trek Circuit: A Pilgrimage Through Shangri-La

The Yading Great Trek is a world-class hiking route and the most elite trail in Western Sichuan. Renowned for its breathtaking scenery, challenging terrain, and high-altitude grandeur, this journey is truly a masterpiece of alpine exploration. Over seven days, trekkers traverse elevations between 4,300 and 5,000 meters, crossing over a dozen mountain passes—seven of which soar above 4,700 meters.

This clockwise circuit winds around the three sacred peaks—Chanadorje, Chenresig, and Jambeyang—before concluding at the Chonggu Monastery, the starting point of the trek. The landscape unfolds as a pristine tapestry of ancient forests, rushing rivers, cascading waterfalls, turquoise lakes, lush meadows, and snow-capped summits. Each day brings unforgettable vistas, immersing travelers in a visual feast that never ceases to amaze.

From September to early November, the route is blanketed in intense autumn colors, evoking the dreamlike realm of Shangri-La. Untouched and wild, this trail is a magnet for photographers and backpackers alike. Often described as a journey “from hell to heaven,” it challenges the body while rewarding the eyes with the ethereal beauty of the “last pure land on the Blue Planet”—Daocheng Yading.

Originally a pilgrimage route used by Tibetan Buddhists to circumambulate the Three Sacred Peaks—each representing Compassion (Avalokiteshvara), Wisdom (Manjushri), and Power (Vajrapani)—the Yading Great Trek invites modern adventurers to embark on both an outer and inner journey. May every trekker return with a heart full of compassion, a mind sharpened by wisdom, and a spirit fortified with strength.

As we walk this path, faith floats in the air.

Highlights of the Route

1. World-Class Alpine Trek
   A demanding yet rewarding expedition around the Three Sacred Peaks, leading deep into the heart of Daocheng Yading. Experience raw highland scenery composed of forests, rivers, waterfalls, lakes, meadows, and glacial mountains.
2. A Photographic & Spiritual Quest
   This high-altitude exploratory trek offers intimate encounters with the sacred mountains. Discover compassion, wisdom, and strength amid the majestic, rarely visited landscapes of a real-life Shangri-La.
3. Expert Guidance & Local Insight
   Led by professional outdoor guides and local Tibetan guides with a 1:7 staff-to-guest ratio for personalized support and safety.
4. Comprehensive Camping Equipment
   We provide shared gear including high-quality camping tents (2 people/tent), foam sleeping pads, groundsheets, satellite phones, first-aid kits, and emergency oxygen canisters.
5. Full Camp Support
   Your personal tent will be set up and taken down by our camp crew. Enjoy dining tents, seating areas, heating equipment, and limited hot water for morning and evening hygiene.
6. Celebratory Traditions
   The journey concludes with a festive farewell dinner, a commemorative trekking medal, and a traditional Tibetan Khata scarf ceremony.
7. Lightweight Trekking & Nutritious Meals
   Hike without heavy loads! We provide hearty breakfasts and dinners, plus fresh fruits and beverages to keep you energized.
8. Emergency Horse Support
   Backup horses are available for emergencies or optional riding (riding fees not included).
9. Power Supply at Camps
   Generators are available at campsites for charging phones, cameras, and drones.
10. Relaxation After Trekking
    Select camps offer hot water for foot soaking, with portable buckets provided (excluded during holidays).
11. Self-Operated Excellence
    We operate all trips independently to ensure consistent quality and safety.

Special Complimentary Services:

1. Personal tent set-up and takedown service at camps.
2. Hot water for foot soaking at select camps (excluding National Day holiday).
3. Use of trekking poles.
4. Complimentary hiking buff/neck gaiter, commemorative medal, backpack rain cover, and traditional Tibetan Khata scarf.

Personal Gear Checklist

Essential Gear:

• Large Backpack or Duffle Bag (for pack animals, personal gear limit: 15kg)
• Small Daypack (to carry daily essentials)
• Sleeping Bag (Rated to -15°C / 5°F)
• Hiking Boots (Medium/High-ankle, waterproof)
• Multiple Pairs of Hiking Socks
• Headlamp or Flashlight (with spare batteries)

Clothing (Layering System):

• Waterproof Jacket & Pants (Gore-Tex or equivalent)
• Fleece Jacket & Pants (Insulating layer)
• Down Jacket (Warm camp layer)
• Warm Hat (Beanie) & Sun Hat
• Sunglasses (UV protection)
• Gloves (Insulating & waterproof)

Accessories & Personal Items:

• Trekking Poles (We provide one; bring the other if you prefer a pair)
• Insulated Water Bottle / Thermos (1L minimum)
• Gaiters
• Sunscreen (SPF50+) & Lip Balm (with SPF)
• Personal First-Aid & Medications
• Bowl, Mug & Utensils
• Toiletries & Quick-Dry Towel
• Rain Poncho
• Crampons (Highly recommended for early/late season trips – Nov, Dec, Mar, Apr)
• 6 x Trail Lunches / Snacks

Participant Requirements

To ensure your safety and enjoyment, participants must meet the following criteria:

• High-Altitude Experience: Sustained hiking experience at altitudes of 4,000 meters (13,123 ft) or above.
• Camping Experience: At least one overnight camping experience above 3,000 meters (9,842 ft).
• Fitness Level: Capable of hiking 10 km (6.2 miles) or more per day in mountainous terrain. A history of regular physical activity—such as running, team sports, or frequent weekend hiking—is essential.
• Age Requirement: 12 to 60 years old.
  • Participants aged 60 must provide a recent medical certificate confirming fitness for high-altitude, strenuous activity.
  • Participants under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

Please Note: This is a physically demanding, high-altitude trek. Honest self-assessment of your fitness and experience is crucial for a successful and safe adventure. Please prepare accordingly.