Hailuogou Travel Guide: Glaciers, Hot Springs & Itinerary Advice

Hailuogou Glacier is located in Luding County, Garzê Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, China, next to Moxi Town and about 380 kilometers southwest of Chengdu. It is a National 5A Tourist Attraction and a key part of the Gongga Mountain Scenic Area and National Nature Reserve.

Originating from the eastern slope of Gongga Mountain (Minya Konka), the main valley is about 30.7 kilometers long with an area of about 220 square kilometers. It features a modern marine glacier formed 1600万 years ago. The entire region displays a vertical distribution of bioclimatic zones, offering a natural experience of "four seasons in a single valley." The scenic area includes high mountain snow peaks, glacier ice-falls, pristine forests, geothermal hot springs, Red Rock Park, and glacier forests. It is home to around 3,000 species of vascular plants and over 400 species of wild animals. With its rich biodiversity, it forms a complete bioclimatic zone where visitors can experience weather variations across short distances. Beautiful in all four seasons, its magnificent scenery has earned it the reputation of being "half in heaven, half in the human world." It belongs to the subtropical alpine humid climate.

What Attractions Are in Hailuogou Glacier Park?

As a national rare glacier forest park, Hailuogou Glacier Park not only preserves ancient glacier ruins and dense forests for you to check out its original state, but also features numerous beautiful natural landscapes. These include misty snow mountains, unique red rocks, mysterious seas of clouds, and refreshing hot springs. Do not miss a wonderful trip to Hailuogou!

Hailuogou Glacier

Located on the eastern slope of Gongga Mountain in Luding County, Garzê, Sichuan, Hailuogou Glacier is a famous low-altitude modern marine glacier in China. It is also one of the easiest glaciers for tourists to access due to its relative proximity to major cities. The most shocking feature is the "Grand Ice Fall," which is about 1,080 meters high and 1,200 meters wide, making it one of the largest discovered ice falls in China. The Grand Ice Fall Observation Deck is the closest viewing point for tourists, offering views of Gongga Mountain, the Grand Ice Fall, and the century-old glacier. Weather permitting, you can also see natural wonders such as the sea of clouds and Buddha’s Light.

Pristine Forest

Hailuogou possesses a large area of alpine pristine forest. Along the way, ancient trees reach for the sky and mist lingers in the air, providing very fresh air that makes it a popular area for hiking, oxygen-absorbing, and enjoying natural scenery. It features a 70-hectare forest kingdom containing 7 vegetation zones and 7 soil zones, which is unique in the world. It holds over 4,880 species of plants, covering climates from subtropical to frigid zones. The dense forest of Hailuogou is also an ideal habitat for wildlife. During the autumn season, you can often see rare wild animals playing.

Sea of Clouds

The sea of clouds in Hailuogou is a magnificent sight. In the early morning, clouds and mist roll between the mountains, contrasting with the snow peaks and forests to create a fairy-tale setting. The sea of clouds is most easily seen in autumn and winter, or when it clears up right after rain, with the early morning around sunrise being the best time to watch. The morning light shining upon this mysterious sea of clouds creates a view so beautiful that it feels like heaven on earth.

Red Rock Park

Hailuogou Red Rock Park is famous for its unique red stone landscape. Large fields of red stones are scattered between streams and forests, looking exceptionally spectacular against the backdrop of the snow mountains. The air here is fresh and the scenery is primitive, making it suitable for hiking sightseeing and photography. The colors become even more vibrant after rain, making it one of the most representative natural landscapes in Hailuogou. In addition, you can also visit the ancient Tea Horse Road.

Hailuogou Hot Spring Experience

In Hailuogou, soaking in a hot spring surrounded by snow is an essential experience.

Best Hot Spring Choices

1. Hailuogou Gongga Deity湯 Hot Spring Hotel

• Address: Hailuogou Scenic Area, Camp 1, about 7 kilometers from Moxi Town, near the scenic area entrance.
• Price: Adult ticket is about 148 to 298 RMB per person.
• Features: Features 25 open-air pools, including Tibetan medicine baths and Five-Flavor Nectar pools. It has a strong Tibetan-themed atmosphere, suitable for tourists who do not want to enter high-altitude areas and prefer a comfortable soaking experience.

2. Camp 2 Glacier Hot Spring (Gongga Divine Spring)

• Address: Camp 2, Hailuogou Glacier Forest Park, Moxi Town, Luding County, Garzê, Sichuan.
• Price: Hot spring ticket is about 98 RMB per person.
• Features: A "boiling spring" with an outlet temperature reaching 92°C, ranked among the "Top Ten Hot Springs in China."

Hot Spring Tips

• Do not soak in hot springs immediately after drinking alcohol, on an empty stomach, or after strenuous exercise.
• Please bring your own swimsuit and swimming cap.
• Camp 2 has a relatively high altitude; tourists at risk of altitude sickness are advised to prioritize the Gongga Deity湯 Hot Spring.

Recommended Routes for Visiting Hailuogou Glacier Park

One-Day Essential Route (First Choice for Most Tourists):

Moxi Ancient Town → Scenic Area Visitor Center → Camp 1 → Camp 2 → Camp 3 → Glacier Cableway → Camp 4 Grand Ice Fall → Return for Hot Springs (This is the most classic and relaxing route, suitable for first-time visitors to Hailuogou.)

Deep Hiking Route (Suitable for Tourists with Good Physical Strength):

Moxi Ancient Town → Caohaizi → Glacier Rainforest Walking Trail → Camp 3 → Glacier Walking Trail → Glacier Observation Deck (This route is more suitable for people who like forest hiking and photography, allowing you to go deep into the pristine forest.)

Recommended Route for Photography (Golden Snow Mountains at Sunrise)

Stay near Camp 3 the night before → Photograph the Gongga Golden Snow Mountain at sunrise in the early morning → Take the cableway up to Camp 4 → Return for hot springs in the afternoon (Winter and early spring are the best seasons for this photography route.)

Two-Day Tour Arrangement Advice:

• Day 1: Moxi Ancient Town → Hailuogou Scenic Area → Camp 3 → Camp 4 → Hot Springs
• Day 2: Caohaizi → Red Stone Beach → Yanzigou (Optional) → Return (This itinerary is not too rushed and allows you to see both the red rocks and the Gongga snow mountain views.)

If you want a customized travel route, you can contact us to design a private itinerary. Just let us know the number of people and your details.

Email: [email protected]   WhatsApp:+86 15347723823 ,  ++86 15347723823
You can also join one of our tours listed below:

Western Sichuan Loop 4 Days Tour

Travel Guide

• How to Get There: You can start from Chengdu. Taking a bus or driving via Ya'an and Luding to Moxi Town usually takes about 4–7 hours. Then, transfer to the scenic area sightseeing bus to enter Hailuogou Glacier Park, which takes about 1–2 hours.
• Accommodation Advice: We recommend choosing accommodation in Moxi Town or around Camp 3 inside the scenic area. The former offers convenient transportation and more options, while the latter is more convenient for viewing the golden snow mountains and glacier views.
• Clothing: You need to bring cold-resistant jackets, down jackets, thermal underwear, hats, gloves, and anti-slip shoes for Hailuogou. The temperature difference between day and night is large, and the temperature on the mountain is low. Pay attention to wind protection, warmth, and rainy or snowy weather. It is also best to bring sunglasses, as the snow can be very bright.
• Tickets and Cableway Prices:
  • Scenic Area Admission: 90 RMB/person
  • Sightseeing Bus (Round Trip): 70 RMB/person
  • Cableway (Round Trip): 135 RMB/person (Online booking in advance is advised for peak seasons and holidays; tickets often sell out during popular winter periods.)

Safety Notice

• Keep Warm: The temperature on the mountain is low and the temperature difference between day and night is large, so down jackets and windproof coats are required.
• Slip Prevention: Ice and snow roads are slippery; wearing anti-slip hiking shoes is advised.
• Mild Altitude Sickness: Avoid strenuous exercise, get more rest, and reduce alcohol consumption.
• Pay Attention to Weather: Rain, snow, or heavy fog may affect the cableway operation and viewing effects.
• Ride Buses According to Regulations: You must take the scenic area sightseeing bus; private entry into restricted areas is not allowed.
• Plan Your Time: Lines can be long during peak seasons; starting early to avoid the crowds is advised.

Recommended Travel Time

• Spring (March - May): Flowers bloom all over the mountains in spring. Seeing snow mountains and rhododendrons together is very suitable for taking photos and relaxing.
• Summer (June - August): The summer weather is cool and comfortable, with green forests everywhere, making it a good time to escape the heat and relax.
• Autumn (September - November): In autumn, layers of colorful forests combine with snow mountains and glaciers, creating stunning views in every shot.
• Winter (December - February): In winter, white snow covers the glaciers, allowing you to soak in hot springs while watching the snow scenery, creating a great atmosphere. However, please note that roads can be icy.

Conclusion

Our high-quality Hailuogou travel itineraries take you into a glacier kingdom. Experience the magnificent presence of thousand-year-old glaciers up close, walk through the misty pristine forests, check out the popular red stone beach, and soak in natural geothermal hot springs to wash away your travel fatigue. Professional tour groups provide attentive service throughout the trip, with one-stop arrangements for transportation and accommodation. Pure travel with no shopping stops ensures you can enjoy the dreamlike wonderland under Gongga Mountain with peace of mind.

FAQ

Q: Is transportation to Hailuogou convenient?

A: You can go by self-driving or bus from Chengdu. The overall road conditions are good, but there are many mountain roads, so safe driving is required.

Q: Is Hailuogou good for taking photos?

A: It is very suitable for photography. Snow mountains, forests, seas of clouds, and glaciers appear together in the same frame, offering different scenery in all four seasons.

Q: What is included in the Hailuogou admission ticket?

A: Admission tickets usually do not include the sightseeing bus and cableway, which need to be purchased separately. Understanding the ticket combinations in advance is advised for better route planning.

Q: Can I soak in hot springs in Hailuogou?

A: Yes, there are multiple natural hot springs within the scenic area and surrounding locations. Soaking to relax your body and mind after sightseeing is a very popular activity.

Q: When is the best time to visit Hailuogou?

A: Hailuogou is suitable for all seasons. Autumn and winter offer the most shocking views of glacier snow scenery, summer is suitable for escaping the heat, and spring allows you to see the view of flower fields interwoven with forests.

Q: What are the must-see attractions in Hailuogou?

A: The Glacier Observation Deck, Red Stone Beach, pristine forest, sea of clouds at sunrise, and natural hot springs are all must-visit attractions, offering a very rich and diverse experience.