Things To Do
in Aba

Aba, located in the Sichuan province of China, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich Tibetan culture. Surrounded by the majestic mountains of the Tibetan Plateau, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The area is home to diverse ethnic groups and vibrant traditions, making it a fascinating destination for travelers.

With its stunning national parks, serene monasteries, and welcoming local communities, Aba is a must-visit for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Aba
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture Museum to learn about the region's unique culture and history.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby Huanglong National Park, famous for its colorful pools and stunning mountain scenery, and take a leisurely hike through its picturesque trails.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Tibetan dinner at a local restaurant, sampling dishes like yak meat and butter tea, followed by a cultural performance showcasing local music and dance.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Visit the scenic Jiuzhaigou Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its multi-colored lakes and diverse wildlife.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour of the valley, exploring its beautiful waterfalls and vibrant autumn foliage in the fall season.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a visit to a local night market, where you can sample street food and shop for handmade crafts.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at Local Restaurant$5
🏨Budget Hotel Night$20
🚍Bus Ticket$1
Coffee$3
🧣Souvenir$10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences with Tibetan traditions
  • Breathtaking natural landscapes and outdoor activities
  • Delicious and unique local cuisine
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Potential language barrier for non-Mandarin speakers
  • Altitude may present challenges for some travelers
  • "Tashi Delek" - Hello/Good Luck
  • "Chai" - Tea
  • "Ngakpa" - Yes
  • "Dü kyi" - Thank you
  • "Nyi ma yul" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Aba

Visit one of these nice places.

Huanglong National Park

Famous for its colorful travertine pools, this park offers stunning landscapes and diverse flora.

Jiuzhaigou Valley

Known for its multi-colored lakes and waterfalls, it's a photographer's paradise, especially in autumn.

Buddhist Monasteries

The region is dotted with beautiful monasteries that provide a glimpse into Tibetan architecture and spirituality.

Culinary Guide

Food in Aba

Aba offers a unique culinary experience that reflects its rich cultural heritage and local ingredients. Visitors can indulge in traditional Tibetan dishes, fresh produce, and vibrant street food.

Aba Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Yak Meat

A staple in Tibetan cuisine, yak meat is often served grilled or in stews and is known for its rich flavor.

Must-Try!

Momos

These Tibetan dumplings are filled with meat or vegetables and are often served with spicy dipping sauce.

Butter Tea

A traditional beverage made from tea, butter, and salt, providing warmth and energy, especially in colder months.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Aba Night Market

A bustling market where you can find a variety of street food vendors offering local delicacies and snacks.

Benduo Street

Famous for its food stalls, this street offers everything from grilled meats to traditional sweets.

Climate Guide

Weather

Aba experiences a varied climate due to its elevation. Summers are warm with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), while winters can be quite cold, averaging -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F). Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making these seasons popular for tourism. Rain is common in summer, so packing waterproof gear is advisable.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Traditions

Be respectful when visiting monasteries and participating in local ceremonies.

Greeting

A polite greeting is appreciated; a nod or a simple 'hello' in Tibetan is a nice touch.

Photography

Always ask permission before taking photos of people, especially in rural areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Aba is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it’s wise to take standard safety precautions, such as keeping valuables secure and being cautious when hiking in remote areas. Additionally, altitude sickness can be a concern due to the region's elevation, so it's important to acclimatize gradually.

Tipping in Aba

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in most restaurants, but rounding up the bill is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used, alongside cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer is warm but can be rainy; it's perfect for hiking but be prepared for sudden downpours.

Autumn

Autumn showcases vibrant foliage, especially in Jiuzhaigou, making it a picturesque time to visit.

Winter

Winter can be very cold with snow; however, it offers a different beauty and opportunities for winter sports.

Nightlife Guide

Aba at Night

Aba has a relatively low-key nightlife scene compared to major cities, but there are cozy bars and tea houses where locals gather. Cultural performances, especially Tibetan music and dance, can often be enjoyed at local venues. Night markets offer a vibrant atmosphere with street food, crafts, and sometimes live music, providing a taste of local life after dark.

Hiking in Aba

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Wolong Nature Reserve

A beautiful area known for its biodiversity, offering various trails for hiking and wildlife viewing.

Minya Konka

This challenging trek leads to Sichuan's highest peak, providing stunning views and a thrilling adventure for experienced hikers.

Airports

How to reach Aba by plane.

Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport (JZH)

Located approximately 50 kilometers from Aba, this airport offers domestic flights and is the closest airport for travelers heading to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Aba is moderately walkable, particularly in the downtown area where many attractions, shops, and restaurants are located within a reasonable distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, but some areas may lack pedestrian crossings or have uneven surfaces. For exploring natural sites, public transportation or guided tours may be more suitable.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Tibetan Ethnic Group

The majority of the population in Aba is Tibetan, with a rich cultural heritage and distinct traditions.

Qiang Ethnic Group

Another significant demographic group, the Qiang people have their own unique customs and are known for their craftsmanship.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is popular among the youth, with many local teams and matches held throughout the year.

Basketball

Basketball courts are common in urban areas, and the sport enjoys significant popularity across different age groups.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Aba is relatively light, with most local transport consisting of buses, taxis, and motorbikes. Roads can be narrow and winding, particularly in mountainous areas, so caution is advised. Public transportation is available, but schedules may vary, and private transport can be more convenient for reaching remote locations.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Aba.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to communicate dietary preferences clearly.

Halal Food

Due to the presence of Muslim communities, halal options can be found in some eateries.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Aba are basic but adequate for minor issues. Larger cities nearby, such as Chengdu, offer more comprehensive medical care. Travelers are advised to carry a basic first-aid kit and consider travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide