Danba County (丹巴县) lies deep in the eastern Garzê Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in western Sichuan Province, where the Dadu River carves its way through dramatic cliffs. This tiny town, once dubbed “China’s narrowest county seat,” stretches tightly along the river valley, with steep rock walls rising on both sides. At over 1,800 meters above sea level, Danba is an unforgettable stop on the popular Western Sichuan Small Loop.
Join me as we follow the winding roads through Danba County—past ancient Tibetan villages like Jiaju Tibetan Village (甲居藏寨) and Suopo Tibetan Village (梭坡藏寨), and through landscapes dotted with stone towers, fortress-like homes, and jaw-dropping mountain views.
1. Scenic Drive from Tagong to Danba County (120 km)
After soaking in the wide-open beauty of Tagong Grassland (塔公), we hopped back into our SUV and continued the drive toward Danba County. The route followed the scenic S303 highway, cutting through the rugged landscapes of Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture.
Roughly 30 kilometers later, we reached Bamei Town (八美). At first, the drive felt a bit quiet—less picturesque than the dreamy countryside between Xinduqiao and Tagong. However, we still spotted bursts of color and culture. Massive mantras were painted across the hillsides, and prayer flags danced wildly in the wind.
At Bamei, the S303 split into two routes. One headed north through town; the other curved east toward Danba. Naturally, we followed the eastern road—eager for what lay ahead.
Just before the turnoff, a Sichuan restaurant sat on the left. It looked like a decent stop for lunch. If you’re planning this route, I’d recommend eating here—there weren’t many food options along the next 87 kilometers to Danba. But we decided to keep moving, snacked from our supplies, and saved our appetite for a big dinner in town.
Along the way, two sights stood out.
First, we passed the historic Huiyuan Monastery (惠远寺) in Xiede Township, once known as Tai Ning City. Built in 1725 during the Qing Dynasty, it served as a military garrison under General Nian Gengyao. Later, in 1728, it became a refuge for the 7th Dalai Lama, transforming the area into a vibrant hub of trade and pilgrimage.
Next, we caught sight of Yala Snow Mountain (亚拉神山), rising 5,820 meters into the sky. Its snow-capped peak stood majestic, sacred to locals in the Kham region. Ten deep valleys stretched from its base—each one a natural wonder.
We finally rolled into Danba town (Zhanggu Town) around 3:40 p.m. and checked into Xingji Hotel (兴吉大酒店0836 – 3520666,8989777), right beside the Dadu River. Tired but thrilled, we were ready to dive into the wonders of Danba County the next day.
2. Morning in a Storybook Village: Exploring Jiaju Tibetan Village in Danba County
We woke up early to crisp October air and the smell of firewood drifting through the hills. After a cup of butter tea at our cozy guesthouse, we set out to visit Jiaju Tibetan Village (甲居藏寨)—one of the most famous and picturesque villages in Danba County.
Located just 10 kilometers north of Zhanggu Town (the seat of Danba County), Jiaju is a typical Jiarong Tibetan village. The name “Jiaju” means “a village of a hundred households” in Tibetan, though today it’s home to over 270 unique homes spread across the hillside.
Even though we’d seen countless photos of it online, nothing compared to seeing Jiaju in person. The entire village looked like it had been gently poured down the slopes of the Mo’erduo Mountain (墨尔多神山) with the Dajin River flowing below like a silver ribbon. Some homes clustered together, while others stood alone, framed by misty pine forests and terraced fields.
These aren’t ordinary homes—they’re Tibetan fortress-style blockhouses, built with stone and timber, layered into the mountain like steps. The first floor once housed livestock, the second was for living, and the top stored food and drying corn. We even saw ladders leading to the upper levels—a glimpse into the past.
The homes wore a palette of red, white, and yellow. Many had four upturned eaves, representing Tibet’s four sacred mountains. And almost every home bloomed with Galsang flowers—a symbol of happiness. Locals say, if you find one with eight petals, you’ll be lucky in life.
Before we left, our kind host posed quietly for a photo—seated at his doorstep, pipe in hand, gazing over the mountains. It was one of those small, perfect travel moments I’ll never forget.
3. Legends in Stone: Exploring Suopo Township and the Ancient Watchtowers of Danba County
That afternoon, we left Zhanggu Town (章谷镇), the heart of Danba County, and drove east along the Dadu River. Curiosity pulled us toward Suopo Township (梭坡乡)—a place often called the “Eastern Kingdom” for its legendary past.
The road hugged the riverbank before gently climbing into the hills. After just 7 kilometers, we arrived at Moluo Village (莫洛村), one of Suopo’s most iconic communities. Here, dozens of ancient stone watchtowers stood guard over the valley, just as they had for centuries. Some say there are still 84 towers standing—earning Suopo the nickname “the Eastern Pyramids.”
According to local legend, Suopo was once part of the Eastern Kingdom of Women, a matriarchal realm from the Sui and Tang dynasties. The queen ruled from atop a tall square tower, while men farmed or went to war. The story may be myth, but it adds a mysterious charm to the area.
At the base of the village, we paid 10 yuan to park. A young Jiarong Tibetan woman collected the fee. Her traditional headdress sparkled with beads and pendants. With her permission, I took a photo—her long braids tucked neatly under layers of woven color. Beauty and quiet pride radiated from her.
A friendly man approached us. He introduced himself as a watchtower owner and part-time bank security guard. On weekends, he guided visitors through his family’s ancestral home. We agreed to the 50-yuan entry and followed him up a winding path of stone steps.
Along the way, he shared stories. Danba County, he said, once had over 560 towers, with Suopo home to around 175 across 13 villages. Most were private, passed down through generations.
The towers weren’t just shelters—they were fortresses, beacons, and storerooms. Originally built to ward off demons, they later protected families from invaders. Some even served as symbols of fertility during the rule of the Eastern Kingdom of Women.
His home sat high on the slope, surrounded by blooming Galsang flowers. We climbed a wooden ladder into the second floor—his family’s main living space. Then, he led us to the attached watchtower. Another ladder took us inside. Step by step, we ascended its dark wooden interior, reaching narrow windows that framed the valley below like a painting.
From the rooftop, I could see more towers rising from neighboring homes. Their silhouettes reminded me of the Kaiping Diaolou in Guangdong—but older, rawer, and wrapped in legend.
By sunset, we descended back down the slope, hearts full of awe for this ancient corner of Danba.
4. Danba Travel Tips: What to Eat, Where to Stay & How to Travel Kindly
After a few unforgettable days in Danba County, I gathered some travel tips that might help fellow explorers make the most of their visit.
Where to Eat in Danba
First things first—don’t leave Danba without trying Tibetan food. In the heart of the villages, small family-run restaurants served us comforting dishes like tsampa (roasted barley flour), butter tea, yak meat, and crispy highland barley pancakes. A full meal cost around 40 yuan per person.
Near the scenic area entrances, we also found casual countryside eateries like Gao Xuewang Restaurant, where locals hung out over steaming pots. I recommend trying Tibetan honey pears and the quirky but delicious pear syrup lollipops—a sweet local specialty.
Where to Stay in Danba County
I highly recommend staying in a village guesthouse inside one of the Tibetan stockaded villages. We booked a cozy homestay in Jiaju, and waking up to morning mist and mountain views was magical. The golden hour light here is perfect for photography. Expect to pay 300–600 yuan per night, and do book ahead—especially during peak seasons like Golden Week.
Essentials to Pack
October in Danba means cool mornings and chilly nights. I brought a thick jacket, windproof layers, and outdoor shoes for village walks. Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Even with crisp mountain air, the sun can be intense!
Cultural Etiquette & Safety
Respect is everything here. Locals appreciate when visitors walk clockwise around prayer wheels, remove hats in temples, and ask before taking photos, especially of monks or rituals.
Altitude in Jiaju Village is about 2,100 meters. I took it slow on arrival and packed Rhodiola supplements just in case. An oxygen bottle can also come in handy for sensitive travelers.
Bonus Tip for Photographers
Jiaju has five main viewing platforms—labeled 1 through 5. If you’re self-driving, try to visit them all. For those using public transport, Platform 1 and 5 are the highlights. Most of the iconic postcard shots were taken from these spots.
Danba County is more than just a scenic stop—it’s a living storybook of Tibetan culture, ancient watchtowers, and mountain beauty. From the vibrant homes of Jiaju to the legendary towers of Suopo, every corner of Danba invites exploration. Whether you’re a photographer, a culture lover, or simply chasing mountain air, Danba County offers unforgettable experiences. I left with a full heart, countless photos, and a deep appreciation for this magical hidden gem in western Sichuan.
🌟Further Reading
Ya’an, Sichuan: Maps, Best Things to Do and Travel Tips
Moxi Town, Sichuan: Maps, Best Things to Do and Travel Tips
Hailuogou Glacier Park: Map, Best Things to Do and Travel Tips
Kangding: Map, Routes, City Walks, and Travel Tips
Xinduqiao: Map, Scenic & Driving Routes, Must-See Spots and Tips
Litang: Map, Scenic Routes, Top Attractions & Travel Tips
Daocheng Yading: Map, Scenic Routes, Highlights and Travel Tips
Deqin: Map, Scenic Routes, Highlights and Travel Tips
Shangri-La, Yunnan: Map, Scenic Routes, Highlights and Tips
Yading: A Journey to Inner Peace
How to Visit Mount Emei: Tickets, Transport, Routes, Hotels & Tips
How to Visit Leshan Giant Buddha from Chengdu
How to Visit Mount Qingcheng: Transportation, Highlights & Tips
