The Golden Terraces of the Mountains
Plan My Trip →Huanglong, a UNESCO World Heritage site near Jiuzhai, is famous for its golden travertine terraces and turquoise pools — a geological wonder set beneath snow peaks. Here's your guide.
Huanglong means 'Yellow Dragon' — named for the golden travertine terraces that cascade down the valley like a dragon's scales. It's one of China's most extraordinary natural sights.
The area's signature are the pools — thousands of mineral-rich terraces filled with water in shades of turquoise, blue, and gold. The Five-Color Pond at the top is the most famous.
Huanglong sits at 3,100-3,600 meters — the altitude adds to the effort. The main trail is a boardwalk climb, with a cable car option to reduce the walk.
Beyond the pools, the area offers snow peaks, forests, and the high meadows of the plateau. It's a complete alpine landscape.
Huanglong is usually visited with Jiuzhai — the two are about 2 hours apart. It makes a wonderful pairing for a 4-5 day trip.
Allow at least half a day. The altitude requires a gentle pace — acclimatize first. Visit in summer and autumn when the pools are at their best; the area is cold year-round.