Why this trip
This is the trip we would send a strong walker on if they wanted the real thing rather than a route built for tourists. Genyen is the third-highest peak in Sichuan and the circuit around it is a proper wilderness trek: no lodges, no road access in the middle, horse support for the heavy loads and a support crew that has run this line for years.
Highlights
- Three-sided circumambulation of the Genyen massif, with the north face in view for most of the middle section
- Cold-water hot springs at the valley head — the traditional wash stop on day four or five
- Lenggu Monastery, a small Nyingma house of worship at the foot of the peak, still used by local herders
- Two passes near 4,900 m, walked early in the morning when the snow is hard
- Camping at 4,000 m+ under skies with no light pollution for a hundred kilometres
On the route
Photographs published by Western Exploration (Jianlang), the operator who runs this trip.
The shape of the trip
An indicative outline. The operator sets the exact daily routing for each batch, and we send it to you in writing before you pay.
- Days 1–2
Chengdu pickup, drive west through Kangding and Litang, acclimatisation night at 3,600 m before the trailhead.
- Days 3–5
Enter the eastern valley, gradual climb through forest and pasture to the first high camp below the north face.
- Days 6–8
Cross the two passes, descend to the hot springs, contour around the western flank with the massif continuously in view.
- Days 9–11
Final valley walk out past Lenggu Monastery, vehicle transfer, overnight in a town with a hot shower.
- Day 12
Return drive to Chengdu. Buffer day built in for weather or road delays.
What's included
Included
- Licensed Chinese trek leader and local herder guides
- All camping equipment except your personal sleeping bag and mat
- Horse or yak support for group gear and duffel
- All meals on trek, cooked by a trail cook
- Chengdu–trailhead return transport
- Entrance fees and pasture-access fees
Not included
- International flights and China visa
- Personal trekking gear and sleeping bag
- Travel insurance with trekking cover (mandatory)
- Tips for guides and horse handlers
- Hotel nights in Chengdu before and after
Before you book
This trip is listed ahead of the 2027 season opening. The following are set by the operator and confirmed in writing at booking, not in advance:
- Exact departure dates for the 2027 season
- Final per-person price for your chosen batch
- Whether an English-speaking trek lead can be arranged
Every trip we sell requires travel insurance that covers trekking and reaches your maximum altitude (≈4,900 m pass). A standard city policy will not cover an evacuation from this height. Send us the certificate before departure.
Who runs it
Western Exploration (Jianlang)
A Chengdu-based operator running Genyen batches for Chinese domestic groups. English-speaking trek lead is arranged for international joiners — confirm at booking.
Batch reference: 2027 season
