Shuoqu River Valley
硕曲河谷
The Shuoqu River Valley, running north to south through Xiangcheng, lined with white Tibetan village houses, poplar groves, and terraced fields; driving the S217 here is an autumn scenic drive.
The Shuoqu River, also called the Shuoyi River, rises in Litang, flows north to south through Xiangcheng County seat, and joins the Jinsha River. Between Xiangcheng and the villages of Qingde and Ranwu, the valley opens wide, with clusters of white Tibetan village houses, barley fields, and poplar groves along its banks. It is one of the most famous autumn color stretches on the Sichuan-Yunnan Loop. The recommended route is to drive south from the county seat along the S217, stopping beside villages such as Qingde and Ranwu to take photos, with the best light in the late afternoon. Villagers sell apples and walnuts along the way. The road has many curves, and livestock often cross it, so drive slowly.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Zhongde Village (Qingde)
- Ranwu Hot Springs
- Sampheling Monastery
- White Tibetan Houses & Seergong Village
- Shambhala Seven Lakes & Mt. Bamu
- Reda Township
- Maxiong Gorge
- Wuming Mountain (Glacial Boulder Field Viewpoint)