Huanglong Scenic and Historic Interest Area – Sichuan:
Description: Huanglong Scenic and Historic Interest Area, often simply referred to as Huanglong, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture of Sichuan province, China. It is famous for its stunning travertine terraces, colorful pools, snow-capped mountains, and diverse ecosystems. Huanglong is a natural wonder that captivates visitors with its unique geological formations and scenic landscapes.
Visitor Fee: As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, there was an entrance fee to access Huanglong Scenic and Historic Interest Area. The ticket price varied depending on the season, and there were different fees for domestic and foreign visitors. Additionally, there might be extra charges for shuttle buses within the area. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date ticket pricing and reservation information.
Transportation: Huanglong is located approximately 53 kilometers from Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport, which serves direct flights from Chengdu and other major cities.
- By Air: Visitors can fly to Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport and then take a bus or taxi to Huanglong.
- By Bus: Buses operate regularly from Chengdu, Jiuzhaigou, and other cities to Huanglong.
Things to Do:
- Travertine Terraces: The main attraction is the impressive travertine terraces, shaped by calcium carbonate deposits from hot springs over thousands of years.
- Huanglonggou (Yellow Dragon Valley): Explore the scenic valley with its cascading waterfalls, colorful pools, and lush forests.
- Five-Color Pond: Marvel at the stunning Five-Color Pond, named for its vibrant and ever-changing colors.
- Xishen Cave: Discover the mystical Xishen Cave, a limestone cave with various stalactites and stalagmites.
- Danyun Gorge: Enjoy a hike through Danyun Gorge, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes.
Why People Enjoy Coming Here:
- Unique Natural Beauty: Huanglong’s travertine terraces and colorful pools create a surreal and captivating landscape, drawing visitors to witness its beauty firsthand.
- Ecological Diversity: The area is rich in biodiversity, with various plant and animal species inhabiting the diverse ecosystems.
- Hiking and Nature Exploration: Nature enthusiasts enjoy exploring the numerous hiking trails and experiencing the tranquility of the scenic area.
How Old is This Place: The formation of the travertine terraces and other geological features in Huanglong has been ongoing for thousands of years.
Additional Nearby Attractions:
- Jiuzhai Valley National Park: Huanglong is located near Jiuzhai Valley, and many visitors combine trips to both scenic areas to explore the stunning natural beauty of the region.
- Muni Valley: Muni Valley, situated nearby, is known for its high-altitude pasture and scenic landscapes.
List of Activities:
- Explore the Travertine Terraces
- Visit Huanglonggou (Yellow Dragon Valley)
- Marvel at Five-Color Pond
- Discover Xishen Cave
- Hike through Danyun Gorge