Daofu Travel Guide (Ganzi (prefecture)/Sichuan/Southwest China/China/East Asia/Asia)

Daofu, located in the Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Sichuan Province, Southwest China, is a charming town that is full of natural beauty and cultural significance. From stunning outdoor adventures to historical sites and museums, Daofu has something to offer for everyone. This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your trip to Daofu with ease, covering everything from where to stay and what to eat to the best things to do and see.

Introduction to Daofu

Daofu is a small town with a population of just under 60,000 people. The town is surrounded by lush green mountains and is home to many cultural and historical landmarks. It is an ideal location for those looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination that is full of natural beauty and rich in culture.

List of Places to Visit in Daofu

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Daofu Museum The Daofu Museum is an excellent place to learn about the ancient history of the town. It houses a collection of traditional Tibetan artwork, calligraphy, and historical artifacts.

Xifeng Temple Xifeng Temple, located at the top of a hill, offers visitors incredible views of the surrounding scenery. The temple is also a great place to learn about the local Buddhist culture and history.

Natural Attractions of Daofu: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Yading Nature Reserve Located in the southern part of Daofu, Yading Nature Reserve is a stunning natural wonderland that attracts visitors from all over the world. With its snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear turquoise lakes, and green forests, Yading is a breathtaking destination that is perfect for hiking and camping.

Xinluhai Lake Xinluhai Lake, also known as the “Little Jiuzhaigou,” is a pristine alpine lake located just 36 kilometers northwest of Daofu. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and lush forests and is a popular spot for hiking, picnics, and photography.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Daofu

Yading Kora Trek The Yading Kora Trek is one of the most popular hiking routes in the entire Sichuan province. The trail takes you through stunning scenery, past several Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, and eventually leads to the three holy peaks of Chenresig, Jampayang, and Chenadorje.

Best Things to Do in Daofu: Activities and Tours

Join a Local Festival Daofu hosts several festivals throughout the year that are full of local culture and tradition. The most famous festival is perhaps the Daofu Horse Racing Festival, which takes place in August and includes horse racing, traditional Tibetan opera, and other festivities.

Visit a Local Village Visiting one of the many villages in and around Daofu is a great way to get a taste of rural life in Sichuan. You can learn about the traditional customs, try local food, and meet friendly locals.

Week-Long Itinerary for Daofu

Day	Activity
1	Arrive in Daofu and check into your hotel
2	Explore the Daofu Museum, Xifeng Temple, and Jiujin Village
3	Go on a day trip to Xinluhai Lake and enjoy a picnic
4-6	Embark on the Yading Kora Trek and camp overnight
7	Attend a local festival or visit a nearby village

Food and Drink Scene of Daofu

Must-Try Dishes

Kazi Kazi is a popular traditional Tibetan dish that consists of roasted barley flour mixed with water and butter. It is often served with yak meat or vegetables.

Yak Butter Tea Yak butter tea is a staple in Tibetan cuisine and is made by boiling tea leaves with water and adding butter and salt. It is a great way to warm up on a chilly day and is said to have many health benefits.

Local Beverages

Chang Chang is a type of Tibetan alcoholic beverage made from fermented barley. It has a slightly sour taste and is similar to beer.

Butter Tea As mentioned above, butter tea is a staple in Tibetan cuisine and is often served to guests as a welcoming gesture.

Where to Stay in Daofu: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Daofu Hotel Daofu Hotel is centrally located in Daofu and offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant that serves both Chinese and Western cuisine.

Dorje Ling Homestay Dorje Ling Homestay is a traditional Tibetan-style home that offers guests a unique cultural experience. The rooms are clean and comfortable, and the owner is friendly and welcoming.

What to Buy in Daofu: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Thangkas Thangkas are traditional Tibetan artworks that are painted on silk or cotton. They often depict religious scenes or famous spiritual figures and make excellent souvenirs.

Tibetan Knives Tibetan knives are famous for their unique designs and sharpness. They are often used as tools for hunting or as decorative items in the home.

Local Culture and Customs of Daofu

Daofu is a town that is steeped in Tibetan culture and tradition. Visitors should be respectful of local customs, such as not touching religious artifacts or disturbing monks during prayer.

Best Time to Visit Daofu

The best time to visit Daofu is from May to September when the weather is warm and the skies are clear. However, be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms during the summer months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Daofu

Do:

Respect the local culture and customs
Try local Tibetan dishes and beverages
Learn a few phrases in Tibetan

Don’t:

Touch religious artifacts without permission
Wear revealing clothing when visiting religious sites
Be loud or disrespectful

Safety and Health

Safety in Daofu

Daofu is a relatively safe town, but visitors should be cautious of traffic when crossing the streets.

Health in Daofu

The high altitude of Daofu may cause altitude sickness in some visitors. Be sure to stay hydrated and rest if you experience any symptoms.

Getting to Daofu: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Daofu

The nearest airport to Daofu is Garze Gesar Airport, located in Garze, about a five-hour drive away.

Bus Stations Near Daofu

There are several long-distance bus stations in Daofu that offer transportation to nearby cities and towns.

Other Options

Many visitors opt to hire a private car or driver to get to Daofu to ensure a comfortable and stress-free journey.

How to Get Around in Daofu

The best way to get around Daofu is by foot, as the town is relatively small. Visitors can also rent bicycles or hire a taxi for longer journeys.

Where to Go Next from Daofu: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Danba Danba, located about 60 kilometers north of Daofu, is a picturesque town that is famous for its traditional stone watchtowers and beautiful scenery.

Jiuzhaigou Jiuzhaigou, located about 240 kilometers from Daofu, is a natural wonderland that is home to stunning lakes, waterfalls, and forests. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see destination in Sichuan.

Conclusion

Daofu is a hidden gem in Sichuan that offers visitors a unique cultural and natural experience. With its stunning scenery, rich history and culture, and friendly locals, it is a destination that should not be missed. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your trip to this charming town and enjoy everything that Daofu has to offer.