8-Day 7-Night Self-Drive Tibet via Sichuan & Yunnan: Save This Guide! Come Feel the Wind I've Felt~
The story of our Tibet adventure begins: The 318 Highway is a dream for many. The word 'entering Tibet' means either zero times or countless times. For travel enthusiasts, the choice is definitely 'countless times.' My first journey to Tibet wasn't smooth—flying directly from Hangzhou to Lhasa, I had prepared a plan, but I 'almost died on the road.' So this time, we chose to self-drive. This summer-autumn trip is not about speed, but about feeling the road. Every stop brings us closer to that dream.
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For most people, flying to Chengdu and renting a car for a self-drive trip is the most comfortable way. Starting from Chengdu, head along the G5 Beijing-Kunming Expressway to Ya'an City and stop at the first rest area, China Yayu Village. This is a hidden gem camping 🏕 site in Caoba Town, Yucheng District. Even if you're not doing the full 318 route, it's perfect for a short self-drive getaway. Bring a few friends, set up a canopy, unfold the roll-up table, pitch a small tent ⛺️, and lay out tasty snacks. Enjoy the lush green mountains and clear waters; when there's no wind, you can see the mountains perfectly reflected on the water—truly beautiful. You can also play frisbee 🥏 or board games on the grass, or just have heart-to-heart chats, read, or daydream to release pent-up emotions and enjoy nature's quiet moments. [Warm Tips] In this hot season, bring insect repellent to avoid bug bites. Camping cost: around 130 yuan.
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Where there's beautiful scenery, there's always good food. We ate at a farmhouse restaurant along the way: Pujiang Daxi Valley Small Pond Garden Restaurant. It's in Daxi Valley, Pujiang County, offering delicious food at great prices. A unique feature is that each table is in its own little pavilion, so you can savor the meal while immersed in the scenery—truly the Sichuanese 'ba shi' (comfortable). Signature dishes: Double-pepper diced rabbit, clay pot old duck stew, rustic grilled pork ribs platter, mixed coarse grains, and garlic-sliced sauced beef. [Warm Tips] The restaurant has ample parking, but the road leading in is narrow; female drivers, take extra care. Meal cost: around 130 yuan.
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We stayed at Shangyuan International Hotel, the first five-star standard hotel in Ya'an City, and it didn't disappoint. Located on Wu'an Road in Tianquan County, it offers easy highway access, a refined environment, and a wide breakfast selection—a great choice before heading to the Sichuan-Tibet Plateau. [Warm Tips] Ya'an has a lot of rain, and rooms along the way tend to be damp; open windows frequently. Accommodation cost: 500 yuan.
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After a full night's rest and adjustment, we climbed higher, passing through the Erlang Mountain Tunnel to Luding Bridge, where we felt the immortal spirit recorded in textbooks. After dining at Wenjiang Old Restaurant, we entered the highway from Luding and drove straight to Kangding. At the Zheduo Mountain Snow Viewing Platform, over 4,000 meters high, we truly understood what 'boundless' means. Continuing on, we passed Xinduqiao and witnessed the golden sunlight—every camera shutter click is what photography enthusiasts long to capture in this photographer's paradise.
Let's talk about Erlang Mountain Tunnel first. Connecting Tianquan County in Ya'an with Luding County in Garzê Prefecture, it's hailed as the 'first tunnel on the Sichuan-Tibet Highway.' Passing through, it's easy to recall the heroic deeds from books, movies, and stories—their willpower and faith seem to resonate even more deeply here. [Warm Tips] There's no auxiliary lighting in the tunnel, so always turn on your headlights and maintain a safe distance.
Next, Luding Bridge. 'Storming the Luding Bridge' is probably the only primary school text I still vividly remember. Located in Luding County, it's 103.67 meters long and made of 13 iron chains. Reliving the heroism here makes you appreciate the sacrifices even more. [Warm Tips] For safety, the bridge now allows one-way passage and requires life jackets. Due to holiday crowds, allow at least 2 hours if you want to cross; we just admired it from afar. Scenic area ticket: 10 yuan/person; parking: 20 yuan.
Then Zheduo Mountain Snow Viewing Platform, a must-stop on the 318 National Highway and the first barrier on the Sichuan-Tibet route. You can take a short break and resupply here, entering the plateau in a more leisurely state. [Warm Tips] Depending on your constitution, you may start feeling altitude sickness. Remember to walk slowly. There's a huge temperature difference between day and night, so dress in layers with long sleeves and pants. Most importantly, apply and reapply sunscreen frequently.
Finally, my favorite: Xinduqiao. Every part of the 318 offers stunning scenery, and here every photography lover can capture their own stunning images. The interplay of light and shadow, the vast grasslands, the winding streams—all are fertile ground for creativity. [Warm Tips] Xinduqiao has plenty of shops, making it a great place to stock up on supplies.
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For authentic Sichuan cuisine on your Western Sichuan trip, we recommend Wenjiang Old Chicken Feather Restaurant. It's on Chengwu Road in Luding County, opposite the People's Hospital. The portions are generous and the flavors are genuine. Best of all, it's close to the Luding Bridge scenic area with easy parking. Signature dishes: Fiery Green Pepper Fish, Pressure Cooker Duo, Stir-fried Baby Rabbit with Hot Peppers, Jianghu-style Mao Xue Wang, and Farmhouse Chicken Salad. Meal cost: around 120 yuan.
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On the Western Sichuan journey, we found accommodation along the way. For instance, Yajiang Kangba Zangyi Hotel, located at Erdaoqiao Village on the 318 National Highway in Yajiang County. It's right on the highway, a must-pass spot on the 318, so priorities are convenient dining, complete facilities, and easy parking. [Warm Tips] Being next to the highway, it's not ideal for light sleepers; bring earplugs. Accommodation cost: 800 yuan.
I mentioned at the beginning that I'm a severe altitude sickness sufferer—I once fainted in a lobby while getting a border permit. So at 4,000 meters, altitude sickness hit as expected. But the stunning natural scenery along the way soothed my soul. From the Kazila Mountain Viewpoint, we gazed toward Litang, the land where Dingzhen roams.
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From Yajiang to Litang, you must cross the 4,659-meter Jianziwan Mountain. Along these winding and spectacular mountain roads, the best spots for aerial photography capture the charm of the 'Eighteen Bends of the Heavenly Road.' Almost touching the blue sky, with layer upon layer of peaks, it's like a stringed instrument playing beautiful melodies every moment. You must try the beef rice noodles—they're incredibly delicious.
At the Kazila Mountain Viewpoint, my altitude sickness got worse. But the scenery is undeniably beautiful. Park, take a break, catch your breath, and grab a skewer of grilled meat from the scenic area—it's not bad. [Warm Tips] To ease altitude sickness, besides walking slowly, bring plenty of oxygen canisters.
My favorite find on the way was the traditional handwoven 'Ni Re' textiles from Litang. A daily necessity on the snowy plateau, it's been listed as a prefecture-level intangible cultural heritage. It reflects the life of Tibetan nomads and also contributes to their income. Here, you can better understand and immerse in Tibetan culture.
Leaving the Ni Re workshop and continuing ahead, you reach Shase La in Gaocheng Township, a great spot for camping 🏕 enthusiasts. Imagine driving onto the alpine grassland, setting up your tent, and witnessing the rare Tyndall effect. [Warm Tips] The temperature difference between day and night is huge; wear thick enough jackets, and if camping, ensure proper warmth.
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As before, every meal stop was unplanned—we just stopped where we were. Today we dined at the Chuanzang Hotel. Mainly because it's close to our night's lodging, at the Third Bridge over the Yajiang River mouth. This is the king of value along the route. The portions are astonishing, the flavors superb, all authentic Sichuan home-style cooking. Signature dishes: Twice-cooked pork, boiled pork slices in spicy sauce, and hot and sour shredded potatoes. Meal cost: around 100 yuan.
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For this stop, we stayed at Medo Boutique Hotel, right in the center of Litang County. It's close to many sights like 'Thousand-Household Tibetan Village' and 'East-West Gate.' Don't expect too much from hotels on the Sichuan-Tibet route; just a comfortable environment, hot water, and decent amenities are enough. [Warm Tips] All hotels along the route make it easy to buy oxygen canisters or rent oxygen concentrators, available anytime. To avoid serious altitude sickness complications like pulmonary edema, don't push yourself. If you feel unwell, keep inhaling oxygen. Accommodation cost: 300 yuan; oxygen concentrator rental: 60 yuan.
Litang is getting more popular. Dingzhen's simplicity has spread the word about this high-altitude city. But you might not know it's also one of the closest places to heaven. Not only is it the mysterious 'World High City,' but it's a place that haunted the heart of the Tibetan poet Tsangyang Gyatso, where his beloved once lived. This early autumn at 20°C gave us a special feeling for Litang.
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If there's anything else romantic about this 'City in the Sky,' it's the vast expanse of kelsang flowers. Driving to the 4,000-meter grassland, you'll find a magical sea of flowers dancing with the local prayer flags in the breeze. Only those who've been here might understand this feeling.
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In Tibetan areas, trying authentic Tibetan cuisine recommended by locals is a must. At the Kelsang Flower Sea Mongolian Yurt, the copper pot yak meat is truly pure in flavor. The butter tea is also very rich. Sitting around the stove in a Tibetan-style yurt lets you experience Tibetan culture in the most down-to-earth way. [Warm Tips] Meal cost: around 150 yuan.
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We didn't change accommodations today; we stayed again at Medo Boutique Hotel to rest up in Litang. [Warm Tips] Accommodation cost: 300 yuan; oxygen concentrator rental: 60 yuan.
Leaving Litang, our next stop was Xiangcheng, known as the 'Rosary in Hand.' The scenery along the way was incredibly diverse: mountains, grasslands, rocks, and a unique ancient glacial relic.
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We encountered the world's largest ancient glacial relic for the first time, in the northern plateau of Xiangcheng County. It lacks widespread renown, and at first glance, it seems like a barren wasteland. But as they say, 'to each their own'—some people can't bear to leave, wanting to experience this largest ancient glacial remnant on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau at Haizi Mountain. Its desolation feels more like 'the surface of Mars on Earth.' If you get the chance to take dramatic photos in a spacesuit here, it'd be incredibly fun.
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For this meal, we had self-heating hot pot, haha. After all those restaurants along the way, we had to be a bit proud and have one self-heating meal, right? (Meal cost: 50 yuan/person)
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Tired from the journey, we stayed at Zhaxi Hotel on Xiangbala North Road, the best hotel in Xiangcheng. Stepping out, you're on the commercial street, making it easy to resupply. If you walk a little further, you can see cornfields and local houses. [Warm Tips] Accommodation cost: 300 yuan.
If you ask me how many times I've been to Lijiang, I'd answer 'the Nth time.' This time, due to force majeure, we switched from the Sichuan-Tibet route to Sichuan-Yunnan, but it didn't dampen our spirits.
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When visiting Lijiang, you absolutely cannot miss the Old Town of Lijiang, the most famous of Lijiang's ancient towns. Its streets are built alongside hills and waters, featuring spots like Sifang Street, Mu's Mansion, Wufeng Tower, Black Dragon Pool... Last time I visited, I rode a little scooter; this time, I plan to walk more. [Warm Tips] With 'small dirty braids' everywhere, be sure to compare prices and bargain seriously. Entrance fee: Free.
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Lunch today was at Gesang Flowers Music Bar in the heart of Lijiang Old Town, one of the many live music restaurants in Lijiang. The wooden architecture, the bustling dining atmosphere, and the richly flavored soups make you want to slow down and enjoy life. Signature dishes: Cured pork ribs, cold beef salad, fish-flavored shredded pork, and banlangen (isatis root) salad. [Warm Tips] Meal cost: around 97 yuan.
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Accommodation this time was at Shuxiang Xinbo Hotel, not inside the old town but in a superb location with brand-new facilities. It's right next to the north gate of the old town; a few minutes' walk and you're in the heart of the hustle and bustle. It's a great alternative to guesthouses. [Warm Tips] Accommodation cost: 499 yuan.
From the quaint town of Lijiang, we slowly made our way to Erhai Lake. Not our first encounter, yet we still love this undisturbed tranquility. Letting time pass quietly is the best respect for Dali.
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At this moment, all we wanted was to wander around Erhai Lake with the most leisurely heart, enjoying the ancient town scenery. This isn't about being idle, but about letting the mind find peace and beauty instantly.
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This trip brought us yet another stunning meal at Cang Er Fisherman · Dali Bai Ethnic Specialty Restaurant. Enjoying authentic steam fish, that's the taste of the Bai people in Dali. The restaurant has an antique decor, and the fresh steamed fish is so delicious it'll make your eyebrows drop—definitely a must-recommend. The pot: the stone pot used for the fish is made of Yun stone from Dali, containing many trace elements beneficial to health—pleasing to the eye and good for the body. Fast: the stone pot fish uses 160°C high-temperature steam, taking only 15 minutes from live fish to table. Fish: they use fish from the Yangtze River at depths of six meters or more, mainly red and white catfish, with delicate meat, no small bones, and a milky soup with a texture like tofu, full of flavor. Mushrooms: Yunnan has many local mushrooms; stewing them with the fish adds freshness upon freshness. Dipping sauce: Yunnan's local sauces are rich and varied; you can mix your own to taste, exploring the charm and mystery of Yunnan cuisine. Signature dishes: Bai-style sour and spicy stone pot fish, Nuodeng ham copper pot braised rice, stone pot battered tofu, and Dali Yongping yellow braised chicken. [Warm Tips] Meal cost: 95 yuan/person.
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Indeed, this was the most luxurious stay of the entire trip: Longxing Courtyard Hotel, located within the ancient city. It's a clever blend of new architecture and old houses, seamlessly integrated, exquisite and unique. Most importantly, the attentive butler service made us feel incredibly comfortable as our long journey neared its end. This trip to Dali once again healed our souls. [Warm Tips] Accommodation cost: 1,000 yuan.
Along this journey, starting from Chengdu, traveling the 318 Sichuan-Tibet Highway, passing through the world's highest city Litang, then switching to the Sichuan-Yunnan route, until the very end—the road was long and full of surprises. We revered every piece of nature's sculpted beauty. If we had to choose again, we'd still set off immediately. No matter what lies ahead, we firmly believe that the land measured by our own footsteps is the true haven where dreams come true. At the foot of Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake, I'll wait for you to feel the wind I've felt~
