Huanglong Scenic and Historic Interest Area
"UNESCO site in Sichuan, China. Stunning terraced limestone pools, snow-capped peaks & diverse wildlife. 'Fairyland on Earth' for hiking & photography.
1. Attraction Introduction
Huanglong (Yellow Dragon) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sichuan, famous for its colorful travertine pools, snow-capped peaks, and alpine forests. The Golden Sand Site features thousands of calcified pools resembling a golden dragon. Key highlights include the Multi-Colored Ponds, Ancient Buddhist Temples, and Danyun Canyon. At 3,000-3,600m elevation, it’s a challenging but rewarding hike with breathtaking views.
2. Historical Background
Huanglong Scenic Area, located in Sichuan Province, China, is renowned for its stunning travertine pools, waterfalls, snow-capped mountains, and lush forests. The name "Huanglong" (Yellow Dragon) comes from the area's golden-colored limestone formations that resemble a dragon winding through the valley.
Historically, Huanglong has been a site of Tibetan and Qiang ethnic culture, with several ancient temples, including Huanglong Temple, dating back to the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644). For centuries, it was considered a sacred land, and pilgrims would travel to worship here.
In modern times, Huanglong gained global recognition for its unique karst landscapes and rich biodiversity. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992 and later became part of the Man and Biosphere Reserve Network in 2000. Conservation efforts have helped protect its fragile ecosystem, including rare species like the giant panda and Sichuan golden snub-nosed monkey. Today, it is a popular tourist destination, offering both natural beauty and cultural heritage.
3. Map & Key Spots
Multi-Colored Ponds (五彩池): Over 700 vibrant blue/green/yellow pools.
Golden Sand Site (金沙铺地): 1.3km-long golden travertine flow.
Huanglong Temple (黄龙寺): Ming-era temple at 3,558m.
Danyun Canyon (丹云峡): Red-rock canyon with waterfalls.
4. Suggested Route
1-Day Classic Route:
Cable car (80RMB up) → Hike 2.5km to Multi-Colored Ponds (1.5hrs).
Descend on foot via Golden Sand Site → Huanglong Temple → Exit (3-4hrs).
Alternative: Full hike (6-7hrs round-trip) for fit travelers.
5. Best Season / Seasons to Avoid
Best: September-October (clear skies, autumn colors).
Avoid: November-April (snow/ice closes upper trails).
6. Transportation Guide
Location: Songpan County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, China
From Jiuzhaigou: Bus (2hrs, 45RMB) or taxi (~300RMB).
From Chengdu: Train to Jiuzhai Huanglong Station about 2~3 hours, then 1hr drive.
7. Ticket Prices & Fees
Peak Season (Apr-Nov): 170RMB (entrance).
Off-Season (Dec-Mar): 60RMB (entrance).
Cable Car: 80RMB (up), 40RMB (down).
8. Special Notes
Altitude Sickness: Oxygen cans sold onsite (50RMB).
Hiking Gear: Wear non-slip shoes; poles recommended.
Photography: Best light at 11AM-2PM for pool colors.