Ngawa རྔ་བ།

Ngawa Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture (阿坝藏族羌族自治州, Ābà Zàngzú Qiāngzú Zìzhìzhōu) is a region in northern Sichuan Province known for its stunning natural landscapes, deep Tibetan and Qiang cultural roots, and rich Buddhist heritage. With its impressive highlands, sacred monasteries, and diverse ecosystems, Ngawa (also known as Aba) is a unique part of the Tibetan Plateau that offers both spiritual and natural attractions. Visitors to Ngawa are often captivated by its colorful temples, serene lakes, dense forests, and dramatic mountain ranges.

Jiuzhaigou Valley National Park

One of China’s most famous national parks, Jiuzhaigou Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its multicolored lakes, waterfalls, forests, and snowy peaks. The park is home to the Tibetan and Qiang ethnic communities and is known for its year-round scenic beauty.

Visitors can explore the turquoise and emerald lakes like Five-Flower Lake, the beautiful Nuorilang Waterfall, and the quiet Rize Valley. In autumn, the park transforms with vibrant fall colors, creating a magical landscape that attracts photographers from around the world. Jiuzhaigou also has well-maintained boardwalks and trails, making it accessible for most visitors.

Huanglong Scenic and Historic Interest Area

Huanglong, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for its terraced limestone pools filled with bright blue, green, and yellow waters. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush forests, the area is a geological and natural wonder.

The main highlight is the Huanglong Valley, where visitors can hike along wooden pathways through terraced ponds, waterfalls, and alpine landscapes. The valley is also home to the endangered golden snub-nosed monkey and other rare wildlife, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.

Ngawa (Aba) Town

Ngawa Town is a traditional Tibetan town and the administrative center of the Ngawa Prefecture. Known for its Tibetan culture and Buddhist temples, it is also a center of Tibetan art, crafts, and traditions.

The Ngawa Kirti Monastery is a significant site for Tibetan Buddhism and an active religious center where you can observe monks engaging in prayer, meditation, and ceremonies. Strolling through Ngawa Town, you’ll encounter prayer flags, stupas, and local Tibetan shops selling handicrafts and prayer beads.

Barkam (Ma’erkang)

Barkam is a small town and the prefectural seat of Ngawa, known for its scenic beauty and historic Tibetan and Qiang architecture. It’s a gateway to many of the scenic attractions in the region.

Barkam has a charming old town with traditional Tibetan buildings and colorful prayer flags. From here, visitors can access the nearby Zhuokeji Tibetan Village, where well-preserved Tibetan stone houses provide a glimpse into traditional life. The town also offers scenic views of the Minjiang River and surrounding valleys.

Zhuokeji Village

Known for its distinctive Tibetan fortress-style architecture, Zhuokeji Village (卓克基藏寨) is a historical and cultural site that showcases the traditional lifestyle of the Gyalrong Tibetans.

The village’s fortress-like houses, known as “Diaolou,” were built for both defense and residential purposes. Visitors can explore these impressive multi-story homes, learn about the Gyalrong Tibetan culture, and enjoy panoramic views of the valley. Zhuokeji is a beautiful blend of history, culture, and architecture.

Ruoergai Wetlands

The Ruoergai Wetlands, also part of the Zoige Grassland area, is a large wetland and grassland area shared with neighboring Zoige County. It is known for its vast plains, colorful wildflowers, and rich birdlife, especially the rare black-necked crane.

In summer, the wetlands are carpeted with wildflowers and migratory birds. The Flower Lake is a popular spot for viewing the wetlands and birdwatching, with black-necked cranes, geese, and ducks often seen around the lake. This wetland is essential for the ecological health of the Yellow River, which has its source in the Tibetan Plateau.

Siguniang Mountain (Four Sisters Mountain)

Located in the southeastern part of Ngawa Prefecture, Siguniang Mountain is known as the “Alps of the East” due to its rugged, snow-capped peaks. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and popular with trekkers and mountaineers.

The mountain has four main peaks, with the tallest reaching 6,250 meters (20,505 feet). Hikers can enjoy scenic trails in Shuangqiao Valley, Changping Valley, and Haizi Valley, each offering different views of the mountains, rivers, and forests. Siguniang Mountain is also known for rock climbing and snow trekking, making it a year-round adventure destination.

Tibetan and Qiang Cultural Heritage

Ngawa is home to both Tibetan and Qiang ethnic groups, each with rich cultural traditions that are evident in local architecture, music, dance, and festivals.

Visitors can experience the Tibetan culture through monastery visits, traditional ceremonies, and Tibetan cuisine. The Qiang people, one of China’s oldest ethnic groups, are known for their stone towers, colorful costumes, and unique shamanistic practices. Festivals such as the Tibetan New Year (Losar) and the Qiang New Year provide vibrant cultural displays of dance, music, and costumes.

Tips for Visiting Ngawa

1. Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit Ngawa are spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when the weather is pleasant and landscapes are particularly beautiful. Autumn offers the added appeal of fall foliage in many areas.
2. Altitude Precautions: Many areas in Ngawa, such as Jiuzhaigou and Ruoergai, are at high altitudes, with elevations ranging from 2,500 to 4,500 meters. Travelers may experience mild altitude sickness, so it’s best to acclimate gradually, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous activities upon arrival.
3. Environmental Considerations: Many natural areas in Ngawa, especially Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong, are ecologically sensitive. Visitors should respect nature by sticking to designated trails, not littering, and following all park guidelines to help preserve these beautiful landscapes.
4. Respecting Local Customs: Ngawa is predominantly Tibetan, and cultural respect is crucial. When visiting monasteries, dress modestly, remain quiet, and always ask for permission before photographing people or religious ceremonies.
5. Local Cuisine: Tibetan and Qiang cuisine is widely available, featuring dishes like yak butter tea, tsampa, barley wine, and grilled lamb. Tibetan noodle soups and dumplings are also common and provide a comforting meal, especially in the colder months.

Ngawa’s blend of cultural and natural wonders makes it a rewarding destination for travelers seeking a combination of adventure, nature, and Tibetan culture. From UNESCO-listed parks and pristine wetlands to vibrant Tibetan and Qiang communities, Ngawa offers a memorable experience on the Tibetan Plateau.