Sichuan
Sichuan
This is a land of sacred snow-capped mountains, deep gorges, and waterfalls that dance through the air.
Tranquil lakes surrounded by forests, and herds of cattle and sheep grazing on the mesmerising grasslands. Skies as clear as a polished mirror, while golden monasteries shine in breathtaking splendour. Everything here exudes a beauty that takes your breath away. The people are pure and hospitable, warmly welcoming guests from all realms and nations.
Here, you can live the essence of ancient China with its stunning natural landscapes, the wisdom of Tibetan Buddhism, the genuine hospitality of its people, the adorable pandas, and the modern vibrance of the city of Chengdu.
HIGHLIGHTS OF Sichuan
BEST EXPERIENCES
Reflect on Tibetan beliefs at Tagong’s sky burial site, a sacred place where life, death, and rebirth are deeply intertwined.
Learn from nomads how to make tsampa and butter tea, and taste the most traditional foods of Tibetan life.
Get close to lambs and calves while learning the art of herding from nomads.
Learn ancient Nyingma Dzogchen meditation with a monk at Tagong Monastery, one of Tibetan Buddhism’s oldest schools.
In Zhonglu Tibetan Village, every household has century-old pear trees, and you’ll savor a yak meat hotpot beneath their blossoms in a village courtyard.
Dance hand in hand with locals in Litang’s main square, moving to the rhythm of the Guozhuang as the plateau night comes alive
Tours Featuring Sichuan
Travel to Sichuan with like-minded people on one of our small group tours (usually max size 6), featuring knowledgeable local guides and an expert tour leader or join our self-guided tour with our English driver and local guides.
Group Tour
SIGNATURE TRIP
7-Day Soulful Journey Across Sichuan
This 7-day journey takes you into the Sacred Highlands of Western Sichuan: stand before Mount Gongga, capture the light of Xinduqiao, and walk the timeless lanes of Zhonglu Village—before crossing the Tagong Grassland to Litang on the boundless plateau. This is our most immersive route through Sichuan.
7 days from €1155 euros
SIGNATURE TRIP
Group Tour
5-Day Essence of Tibetan Plateau Journey
This 5-day journey brings you to the very essence of Sichuan—trek the valleys of Mount Siguniang, share life with nomads on the grasslands, and learn ancient Nyingma meditation in Tagong Monastery—before wandering the timeless lanes of Zhonglu Village and Shangli Ancient Town.
5 days from €875 euros
Why travel to Sichuan?
What’s the weather like in Sichuan?
Sichuan Basin has four distinct seasons: winters are damp and chilly (around 5–10°C) with little snow, while summers are hot and humid (up to 28–35°C). Spring and autumn are mild (15–25°C), though cloudy and rainy days are frequent.
By contrast, Western Sichuan sits on the plateau, where the air is thin, the sunlight strong, and the weather changes quickly. The elevation ranges from 2000 to 4500m. The temperature difference between day and night is significant, making layered clothing essential. In summer, average temperatures are around 20°C, while in winter they can drop to about -5°C, with day–night differences of up to 10°C.
Top five dishes to try
1. Tsampa – A staple food made from highland barley, often mixed with tea or butter.
2. Mapo Tofu – Silky tofu with minced beef, chilli bean, and Sichuan peppercorns
3. Sichuan Hotpot – A spicy broth with chili and Sichuan peppercorns, where meats, vegetables, and tofu are cooked at the table.
4. Momo Dumplings – Steamed dumplings filled with juicy minced beef and onions.
5. Yak Meat – Flavorful and chewy, with a stronger taste than regular beef.
Top Places to visit in Sichuan
Chengdu
Chengdu is the spice capital of China and one of the country’s most welcoming, laid-back cities. Known as the homeland of giant pandas. Slow down and savor the fiery flavors of Sichuan cuisine, from bubbling hotpot to street snacks, and feel the warmth of a city celebrated for its openness and inclusiveness.
Tagong
Tagong is a small Tibetan town where faith runs deep. Snow-capped mountains, vast grasslands, and sacred monasteries share the same stage, creating a powerful spiritual atmosphere. Wander through Muya Monastery, sip butter tea in a nomadic home. This is the kind of place you could spend weeks in without ever growing tired.
Leshan
Leshan is home to the world’s tallest stone-carved seated Buddha. Beyond its cultural treasures, Leshan is also famous for its mouthwatering local dish—“Qiaojiao Beef.” A boat ride to view the Giant Buddha from the river is an experience you simply can’t miss.
Litang
Litang is the cultural heart of the Kham Tibetan region, where faith and daily life blend seamlessly. Stroll through the ancient halls of Changqingchunkeer Monastery. In the evening, wander Letong Old Town, where locals gather in the square to dance the traditional Guozhuang.
