5-Day Gongga Short Circuit Backpacking Trek
Overview
Quick Answer
5 days from Chengdu back to Chengdu. Two mountain camp nights with personal backpacking gear.
Carry your own camping system into Gongga’s western valleys on a route through Liangchahe, upper Riwuqie and the Ridaman pass. Village nights follow the two camping stages, with Lenggacuo and a conditional Bawanghai exit adding variety. The backpacking format is central to the experience: personal shelter, sleep kit and food need careful planning. verotrip confirms exactly what the guide and transport team provide before the journey begins.
Why Choose This Journey
- Two mountain camp nights with personal backpacking gear
- Ridaman pass crossing
- Lenggacuo and a conditional Bawanghai exit
Your Route at a Glance
Itinerary at a Glance
| Day | Route | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chengdu to Liangchahe | Liangchahe camp |
| 2 | Liangchahe to Upper Riwuqie | Upper Riwuqie camp |
| 3 | Ridaman Pass to Shangmuju | Shangmuju guesthouse |
| 4 | San’encuo and Lenggacuo | Shangmuju guesthouse |
| 5 | Conditional Bawanghai Exit and Chengdu Return | Not included; Chengdu night recommended |
Good to Know Before You Go
Activity level: Very challenging
This is the self-carried version. Do not assume porterage, meals or personal camping gear are included. Day 5 may use a direct road return if the Bawanghai route is unavailable or cannot fit a safe schedule.
Dates and Mountain Conditions
Choose dates after checking current trail access, snow, rainfall and the availability of the required mountain support. Clear views and summit or pass access cannot be promised. verotrip will confirm the operating plan before booking.
Plan Your Journey
Share your dates, group size, previous mountain experience and accommodation preference through Plan My Trip. verotrip will return with a route-specific plan and quotation, including any extra acclimatization nights.
Daily Itinerary
Drive via Kangding and Laoyulin to the approach, then walk through the Gexi grassland corridor toward Liangchahe. Carry the equipment and food specified for the backpacking version, keeping the load within your tested capacity. Set up camp in the agreed location and organize the evening routine. The guide reviews the next stage and the forecast for the high crossing.
Overnight: Liangchahe camp
Today’s pace: Approximately 8 km walking after a long road transfer
Continue up-valley through open pasture beneath the surrounding peaks. The distance is moderate by mountain standards, but the pack weight and increasing altitude affect the pace. Reach upper Riwuqie and pitch camp in the location selected by the guide. Prepare food and equipment early, giving the team time to assess readiness for the next day’s pass.
Overnight: Upper Riwuqie camp
Today’s pace: Approximately 10 km; around 6 hours
Leave camp early for the ascent to Ridaman Pass, approximately 4,980 metres on the planned route. The crossing involves sustained climbing and uneven ground with a full backpack. Descend toward the confirmed village approach and settle into simple accommodation at Shangmuju. Optional sunset transport to a viewpoint is only considered if the mountain stage finishes comfortably.
Overnight: Shangmuju guesthouse
Today’s pace: Approximately 13 km; around 8 hours
Explore the western lake landscape according to the guide’s chosen line and local access. The programme links San’encuo and Lenggacuo, with time for mountain views and a return to the village. Carry the day’s food and weather protection, and keep the descent within the agreed schedule. Horse transport, where available, is a separate service rather than part of the backpacking package.
Overnight: Shangmuju guesthouse
Today’s pace: Approximate walking distance around 10 km
The planned exit uses the Zimei area and the forested Bawanghai valley before meeting transport toward Caoke and Chengdu. This is only operated when trail access, water levels and the day’s timing permit. Otherwise return by road through Kangding. The final arrangement is confirmed by the guide; either version requires a flexible Chengdu arrival and no onward connection that night.
Overnight: Not included; Chengdu night recommended
Today’s pace: Mountain exit and long road transfer; alternate road return possible
