Overview
What to Expect
Ruoergai Grassland is a vast high-altitude grassland located in Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, northern Sichuan Province, part of the eastern Tibetan Plateau. With an average altitude of 3,500 meters, it covers an area of over 30,000 square kilometers, making it one of the largest grasslands in Sichuan. The grassland is famous for its stunning alpine meadows, clear blue skies, and numerous lakes and wetlands, including the famous Flower Lake (Hua Lake) – a protected wetland area known for its colorful wildflowers in summer. Ruoergai also has important historical significance as part of the Long March route, with many revolutionary relics. The grassland is home to Tibetan nomadic communities, offering visitors a chance to experience Tibetan culture, including traditional yurt stays and Tibetan food. Best visited from June to August when the grassland is green and flowers are in bloom, Ruoergai Grassland is a paradise for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking Tibetan plateau scenery.
Vast high-altitude grassland (3,500m) on the Tibetan Plateau, over 30,000 sq km
Famous Flower Lake with colorful wildflowers and wetland scenery (June-August)
Important Long March historical site with revolutionary relics
Authentic Tibetan nomadic culture experience with yurt stays and Tibetan food
Perfect for nature photography, especially sunrise and sunset over the grassland
Things to Do
- Explore Flower Lake (Hua Lake) – walk the wooden boardwalk to see wetland scenery, wildflowers, and migratory birds
- Drive through the vast grassland and stop at scenic viewpoints for photography, especially at sunrise and sunset
- Visit a Tibetan nomadic family to experience life in a yurt, drink Tibetan butter tea, and try tsampa (roasted barley flour)
- Learn about the Long March history at local revolutionary memorial sites
- For adventure seekers: Try horse riding on the grassland (organized by local Tibetan guides, 50-100 RMB/hour)
Suggested Itinerary
- Day 1 – Chengdu to Ruoergai
Take an organized tour bus from Chengdu (6-7 hours with stops). Arrive in Ruoergai County in the afternoon. Check into a hotel and rest to acclimatize to the high altitude (3,500m). In the evening, visit a local Tibetan family for a traditional Tibetan dinner and cultural experience. - Day 2 – Flower Lake & Grassland Exploration
Early morning: Drive to Flower Lake (Hua Lake) (1-hour drive from Ruoergai County). Explore the lake and wetland area – walk along the wooden boardwalk to see wildflowers (June-August), migratory birds, and beautiful lake reflections. Have lunch at a local restaurant with Tibetan specialties. - Day 2 Afternoon – Grassland Scenery & Return
Drive through the vast Ruoergai Grassland, stop at scenic viewpoints for photos. Visit a Tibetan yurt to experience nomadic life. In late afternoon, start the return journey to Chengdu (6-7 hours). Alternatively, extend to 3 days to visit nearby attractions like Zoige Wetland.
How to Get to Ruoergai Grassland
- By organized tour (Recommended): Most visitors choose 2-3 day tours from Chengdu (600-1,000 RMB) which include transport, accommodation, and guide. This is the most convenient and safe option for high-altitude travel.
- By private car: 6-7-hour drive from Chengdu via Chengdu-Maerkang Expressway. A 4WD vehicle is recommended for some rural roads. Driver must have experience with high-altitude and mountain roads.
- By public transport: Take bus from Chengdu Xinnanmen Bus Station to Ruoergai County (8 hours, 150-200 RMB). Buses depart daily at 6:30 AM. From Ruoergai County, take local minibuses to Flower Lake (30 mins, 15 RMB).
- By plane + bus: Fly from Chengdu to Songpan Airport (1 hour, 500-800 RMB), then take bus from Songpan to Ruoergai (2.5 hours, 50 RMB). This reduces travel time but is more expensive.
Travel Tips
- Altitude sickness prevention: Average altitude is 3,500m. Drink plenty of water, avoid strenuous exercise for the first 24 hours, and avoid alcohol. Bring altitude sickness medicine (like Hongjingtian) if you have a history of altitude issues.
- Weather preparation: Temperature varies greatly (10-25°C during the day, 0-10°C at night). Even in summer, bring a warm jacket, hat, and sunscreen (strong UV rays at high altitude).
- Entrance fees: Flower Lake: 70 RMB (adults), 35 RMB (students). Grassland scenic areas: Most are free, some viewpoints charge 10-20 RMB.
- Accommodation: Ruoergai County has hotels (200-400 RMB/night) and Tibetan yurts (150-300 RMB/night). Yurt stays offer authentic culture but have basic facilities – bring toiletries.
- Respect local culture: When visiting Tibetan families, remove shoes before entering yurts, ask permission before taking photos of people, and respect Tibetan customs and religious beliefs.
FAQ
Is Ruoergai Grassland suitable for everyone?
Due to the high altitude (3,500m), it’s not recommended for people with serious heart or lung conditions, or young children under 3 years old. Healthy adults should prepare for possible mild altitude sickness.
When is the best time to see flowers in Ruoergai?
The best time for wildflowers is late June to early August. Flower Lake is especially beautiful during this period with colorful flowers around the lake.
Do I need a guide for Ruoergai?
A guide is recommended, especially for first-time visitors. They can help with altitude sickness prevention, explain local culture, and ensure you visit the best viewpoints. English-speaking guides are available with advance booking.
What should I pack for Ruoergai?
Essentials include: warm jacket (even in summer), sunscreen (SPF 50+), hat, sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes, altitude sickness medicine, water bottle, and toiletries (for yurt stays).
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