Abu Jicuo Hiking: A Complete Guide to Exploring the Pure Land of the Plateau

Itinerary 📅 - Departure time and transportation: It is recommended to leave Shangri-La city at around 6:30 am 🚗, and take a chartered car or carpool to the starting point of the hike, Xilianpen Pass, which takes about 40–50 minutes. - Hiking route: - From Xilianpen Pass, hike 3 km to the first pasture 🐄. This section has many short uphill sections, and the altitude rises from 3,400 m to about 3,700 m. - From the first pasture to the second pasture, hike 4 km on a long gentle slope, and the altitude rises to about 3,800 m. - From the second pasture to the third pasture, hike 2 km on a gentle slope, and the altitude rises to about 3,900 m. - From the third pasture to the fourth pasture, hike 4 km on a steep slope, and the altitude rises to about 4,100 m. - From the fourth pasture to the top of Abu Jicuo, hike about 1 km on a steep slope, and the altitude is about 4,100–4,300 m. Route highlights 🌟 - Natural scenery: Walk through the virgin forest 🌳, where you can see rich vegetation and various fungi (do not pick them), and pass through alpine meadows and unknown small lakes. - Ethnic customs: The Mani piles, pagodas, prayer flags, and other scenery along the way are unique. You may encounter herdsmen's tents and can communicate with them to experience the local customs. - Alpine lakes: Abu Jicuo is located in a valley at an altitude of 4,200 m, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The lake is green and clear, and the rhododendrons on the shore complement the snow-capped mountains. Equipment recommendations 🎒 - Clothing: Prepare quick-drying clothes and pants, fleece jackets, lightweight down jackets, high-top waterproof shoes 👟, thick socks, fleece hats or headscarves, and sunglasses 🕶. - Other: Bring 2 trekking poles, a backpack, a thermos, sunscreen, lip balm, and high-energy foods such as chocolate and beef jerky. Precautions ⚠ - Environmental protection: Be sure to protect the environment, do not litter, and protect this pure land. - Safety: The signal in this area is poor, so inform others of your itinerary in advance and download offline maps. In case of an emergency, stay calm, find a high place or open area to call for help, and try to travel with others. - Altitude sickness prevention: Take anti-altitude sickness medicine in advance, keep your breathing steady while hiking, take appropriate rest, and avoid strenuous exercise. If you experience symptoms of altitude sickness, stop and adjust immediately. Embark on a hiking trip to Abu Jicuo, embrace the magnificence and tranquility of the plateau, and prepare according to this guide to start your wonderful adventure!