Overview
Songpan serves as the main access point for Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve and Huanglong National Park, but also offers quieter attractions: remnants of Songpan's old city walls and gates you can climb, and multi-day horse treks through Tibetan villages to 4000-m summits. Compared to Chengdu or Jiuzhaigou town, Songpan has a slower pace, cheaper accommodation (dorms from ¥12-20), and direct contact with local Hui and Tibetan communities.
Budget Travel · Day Trips · Nature · Trekking
Before you go
Health
Altitude ~2,800 m; acclimatize from Chengdu before trekking to avoid altitude sickness.
Information
Emma's Kitchen is the main traveler hub offering internet, tour booking, car rental, and local advice.
Shopping
Bargaining expected for crafts on main street; best silver prices at southern-end smiths. Avoid fur products.
Transport
Buses depart from the north-of-town station to Chengdu (11h), Jiuzhaigou (2h), Zoige/Langmusi (5h), and Huanglong. Tricycle taxis serve short hops within town; horses and motorcycles for longer trips.
