Daocheng Yading in Ganzi, Sichuan, sits above 4,000m, famed for three holy peaks (Xiannairi, Yangmaiyong, Xianuoduoji) and Milk Lake and Five Colour Lake.
Highlights: Yading village, Chonggu Monastery, Luorong pasture, Milk Lake (4,600m) and Five Colour Lake (4,700m).
Route: 2 days by road from Chengdu or fly to Daocheng airport; two days in the park - D1 short loop, D2 the long hike to Milk Lake.
Altitude: the highest scenic area of the whole trip - start rhodiola 3 days before, carry oxygen, no strenuous exercise, drink warm water.
Best time: September-October for autumn colours with snowy peaks; May-June for flowers; winter roads are risky.
Tickets: ~RMB 270 incl. bus; horses to Milk Lake cost about RMB 300, then walk the last kilometre.
