Huanglong Travel Guide: A Colorful Wonderland in Sichuan

Located in Songpan County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Huanglong is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a 5A-rated national park. Known for its stunning travertine pools, snow-capped mountains, deep valleys, and lush forests, Huanglong is often called the “Fairyland on Earth.” Its most famous feature, the multicolored travertine pools, resembles a celestial palette and is a must-see for any traveler. Situated about 100 kilometers from Jiuzhaigou, Huanglong is often paired with it for a comprehensive Sichuan travel experience. This Sichuan travel guide will help you explore one of the most mesmerizing Sichuan attractions.

Getting to Huanglong

Huanglong is approximately 330 kilometers from Chengdu, and transportation options include:

By Air
Fly from Chengdu Shuangliu Airport to Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport (approx. 1 hour, CNY 500-1500 depending on the season). From the airport, take a shuttle bus (CNY 22) or taxi (approx. CNY 100-150) to Huanglong Scenic Area (50 kilometers, 1 hour).

By Bus
Take a long-distance bus from Chengdu’s Chadianzi Bus Station to Songpan County (approx. 6-8 hours, CNY 100-150). From Songpan, hire a local taxi or private car to Huanglong (40 minutes, CNY 50-100).

By Car
Drive from Chengdu via G213 or the Jingkun Expressway, passing through Wenchuan and Songpan (approx. 6-7 hours). The mountain roads are winding, so drive carefully. Parking is available near the scenic area (CNY 10-20/day).

Within the Scenic Area
The park is best explored on foot via well-maintained boardwalks. For those who prefer to save time and energy, a cable car is available (CNY 80 one-way, CNY 40 downhill).

Top Attractions and Activities

Huanglong’s main attractions are centered around its travertine landscapes, which stretch along a single valley:

Multi-Colored Pools (Wucai Chi)

• Highlights: Located at the highest point of Huanglong (3,600 meters above sea level), these pools are the park’s crown jewel. Hundreds of pools shimmer in hues of blue, green, and yellow, creating a surreal, dreamlike scene.
• Tip: Visit in the morning on a sunny day for the best lighting and photo opportunities.

Welcome Pools (Yingbin Chi)

• Highlights: A series of vibrant travertine pools near the park entrance, offering a stunning introduction to Huanglong’s natural beauty.
• Tip: Walk along the boardwalk to fully appreciate the intricate patterns and colors.

Huanglong Ancient Temple

• Highlights: A small, serene temple built during the Ming Dynasty, surrounded by colorful pools and nestled at an altitude of 3,400 meters.
• Tip: Take a break here to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the blend of culture and nature.

Contending Pools (Zhengyan Chi)

• Highlights: A group of vividly colored pools that resemble a natural artist’s palette.
• Tip: Follow the boardwalk for the best views and photo spots, but avoid touching the pools to preserve their delicate ecosystem.

Flying Waterfall (Feipu Liuhui)

• Highlights: A dramatic travertine waterfall where water cascades over golden-yellow rocks.
• Tip: Visit after rainfall for the most impressive flow.

Suggested Itineraries

Half-Day Trip: Park Entrance → Welcome Pools → Huanglong Ancient Temple → Cable Car to Multi-Colored Pools → Return.

One-Day Trip: Park Entrance → Welcome Pools → Flying Waterfall → Huanglong Ancient Temple → Multi-Colored Pools (by cable car or hike) → Return.

Food Recommendations

Huanglong’s cuisine combines Tibetan and Sichuan flavors. Here are some must-try dishes:

Yak Meat Hotpot

• Try: Tender yak meat served in a flavorful broth, often paired with wild vegetables (CNY 40-60/person). Available in Songpan or near the park entrance.

Butter Tea and Tsampa

• Try: A traditional Tibetan combination of butter tea and roasted barley flour, perfect for warming up in the high-altitude climate (CNY 10-20).

Grilled Lamb Skewers

• Try: Spicy and aromatic skewers, a popular street food near the park (CNY 20-30/serving).

Wild Mushroom Soup

• Try: A hearty soup made with locally foraged mushrooms, rich and flavorful (CNY 30-50/pot).

Sichuan Noodles

• Try: Classic dishes like dandan noodles or fat intestine noodles in Songpan (CNY 10-15/bowl).

Accommodation Options

Songpan County: Located about 40 kilometers from Huanglong, offering a range of hotels and guesthouses (CNY 50-300/night).

Chuanzhusi Town: About 30 kilometers from Huanglong, with more accommodation options (CNY 100-500/night).

Near the Scenic Area: Simple guesthouses near the park entrance (CNY 100-200/night), ideal for early starts.

Practical Tips

Best Time to Visit

• Autumn (September-November): The pools are at their most colorful, especially in October.
• Summer (June-August): Cool and refreshing, perfect for escaping the heat.
• Winter (December-February): Snowy landscapes, but some areas may be closed.

What to Pack

• Sturdy, non-slip hiking shoes (the boardwalks can be wet and slippery).
• Warm clothing for high-altitude areas (temperatures can drop significantly).
• Sunscreen and rain gear for summer visits.

Costs

• Peak season (April 1-November 15): Entrance fee CNY 170/person.
• Off-season (November 16-March 31): Entrance fee CNY 60/person.
• Total budget (including meals and cable car): CNY 200-400/person.

Safety Tips

• Be mindful of altitude sickness; carry an oxygen bottle (available at the park entrance for CNY 20).
• Respect the environment: Do not litter or touch the travertine pools.
• Check weather forecasts, as conditions can change rapidly.

Sample One-Day Itinerary

Morning: Depart Chengdu (by air or bus) → Arrive at Huanglong Scenic Area → Explore Welcome Pools and Flying Waterfall.
Midday: Rest near Huanglong Ancient Temple and enjoy a simple lunch (packed snacks or park restaurant).
Afternoon: Take the cable car to Multi-Colored Pools → Admire the panoramic views → Walk downhill to see Contending Pools.
Evening: Return to Songpan or Chuanzhusi for a yak meat hotpot dinner → Stay overnight or return to Chengdu.

Huanglong’s ethereal landscapes, from its shimmering travertine pools to its cascading waterfalls, make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers. Whether you’re marveling at the vibrant colors of the Multi-Colored Pools or soaking in the tranquility of the Huanglong Ancient Temple, this Sichuan travel guide ensures your journey to Huanglong will be nothing short of magical.