Hailuogou Glacier
Cable-car views of a 1,080-meter icefall and hot springs beneath the 'King of Sichuan.'
hailuogou glacier at a Glance
Everything you need to know before you go.
Hailuogou Glacier lies at the foot of Gongga Mountain, the 'King of Sichuan.' Ride the cable car to Camp 4 for a panorama of the 1,080-meter icefall and the glacier tongue, then explore red stone beaches and primeval forests. Natural hot springs at Camp 1 and Camp 2 offer a relaxing end to the day, while Moxi Old Town provides Tibetan culture and a touch of revolutionary history.
Where to Stay
Choose the neighborhood that fits your style.
Moxi Old Town
The charming gateway to Hailuogou, with stone-paved streets, a 1918 French Catholic church, and Tibetan-style guesthouses serving yak meat and butter tea.
Best for culture, local dining, and easy park accessHailuogou Scenic Area (Camp 1 & Camp 2)
Stay inside the park near natural hot spring pools and forested trails, with mountain views and early access to the glacier shuttle and cable car.
Best for hot springs, early starts, and immersive naturehailuogou glacier Highlights
The city's essential experiences, grouped by what you love most.
Drive through the legendary 4.1km tunnel with scenic mountain views.
Walk across the historic chain bridge built in 1705; enjoy a Sichuan lunch in Luding town.
Stroll stone-paved streets; visit the 1918 French Catholic church and Red Army memorial site.
Stop for photos of the dramatic river gorge en route.
Board the eco-bus through lush rhododendron and spruce forests.
Ride the cable car for aerial views; see the 1,080-meter icefall and Gongga summit on clear days.
Easy trail through primeval forest to first glimpse of the glacier tongue.
Explore unique red rocks along the riverbed; optional guided glacier walk (extra fee).
Soak in thermal pools at Camp 2 surrounded by snow-capped peaks; RMB 100-200.
Try local yak meat, butter tea, and barley wine at a cozy guesthouse in Moxi.
Drive 30min to trailhead; hike past red stones, waterfalls, and old-growth forests; hire local guide if going deep.
Try local mushrooms and wild vegetables before departure.
Best Time to Visit
Each season offers a different side of the city.
Spring · Mar–May
Mild weather and blooming landscapes — comfortable for exploring.
Summer · Jun–Aug
Warm days; highland areas stay cool while lowland cities get hot and humid.
Autumn · Sep–Nov
The best season in most of China — crisp air, clear skies, and golden light.
Winter · Dec–Feb
Cold in the north, mild in the south. Fewer crowds and lower prices outside holidays.
Suggested Itineraries
Three carefully-paced plans for your trip.
1-Day Express
Enter Hailuogou Glacier Park and take the eco-bus through virgin forests to Camp 3. Ride the cable car over the glacier to Camp 4, watching for the huge icefall and Gongga peak. Follow trails down to touch the glacier, then soak in thermal pools at Camp 2 before returning to Moxi.
2-Day Classic
Embark on a thrilling 2-day journey from Chengdu to the magnificent Hailuogou Glacier. En route, traverse the majestic Erlang Mountain, admire the rushing Dadu River, and step back in time on the historic Luding Bridge. The adventure culminates at Hailuogou, where you'll soar by cable car over the frozen expanse, witness the awe-inspiring Grand Ice Fall, and soak in natural hot springs. This trip perfectly blends stunning alpine scenery with cultural gems for an unforgettable escape.
Local Tips
Insider knowledge for a smoother trip.
Plan for Nov-Apr for clear glacier views, or May-Oct for lush greenery and blooming rhododendrons.
At Camp 4 (3,600m), pace yourself and wear warm layers even in summer.
Expect park ticket RMB 90 + eco-bus RMB 70, cable car round-trip RMB 150, and hot spring entry RMB 100-200.
In Moxi Old Town, visit the 1918 French Catholic church and Red Army memorial site; try yak meat, butter tea, and Tibetan barley wine.
Explore Red Stone Beach along the riverbed; a guided glacier walk (extra fee) requires moderate fitness.
FAQs About hailuogou glacier
Quick answers to common questions.
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