The Luoke Route

The most classic route once explored on foot by American explorer Joseph Rock, from which the term 'Shangri-La' originated. He once wrote in a letter to a friend, 'I would rather die in these beautiful mountains than in a cold hospital bed.' In March 1928, American explorer Joseph Rock set out from Muli, traversing areas such as Daocheng and Yading, and delved deep into the Gongga Range. After twice crossing the Daocheng Yading region, he published his writings and photographs in the National Geographic Magazine in the United States.

In April 1933, British-American writer James Hilton (James Hilton), using the articles and photos from Joseph Rock’s expedition as inspiration—especially Rock’s exploration of the three sacred peaks of Gongga Range (Xiannairi, Yangmaiyong, and Xianuoduoji)—wrote the famous novel Lost Horizon. The 'utopia' described in the novel came to be known as 'Shangri-La,' sparking a global craze to find this paradise. The route that Joseph Rock took from Muli through to the Gongga Range during his expedition is what later generations refer to as the 'Luoke Route.'

Since vehicles cannot pass through these areas, the only way to traverse it is on foot. The route passes through three major scenic areas: Yading, Daocheng, and Gongga, including two ancient temples—Chonggu Temple and Gongga Temple—and the Three Holy Mountains (Eastern Peak – Xianuoduoji, 5,958m, representing Vajrapani; Southern Peak – Yangmaiyong, 5,958m, representing Manjushri; Northern Peak – Xiannairi, 6,032m, representing Avalokiteshvara). To reach the Gongga Sacred Mountain, one must cross two high mountain passes at elevations of 4,800m (Xialuoduoji Pass and Riwuqu Pass), trek through the Moxigou and Riwuqu Valleys, and pass by numerous glaciers of Gongga. The endpoint is Kangding, the City of Love Songs, with breathtaking scenery along the way.

"The entire journey along the Luoke Road takes about five hours. If you're traveling from Zagulu to Zhagana, it's best to start in the morning when the lighting is excellent. Starting Points: There are currently two starting points: Dulu Village (traditional) and Jialuo Village (new)."

*Note: The road to Jialuo has now been paved and is very convenient, with only the section leading up to the blocked area featuring numerous potholes, making the ride feel like a rollercoaster. Moreover, you ultimately have to enter via an entrance near Jialuo Village, so it is recommended to start from Jialuo.

End Points: There are currently two end points: Kas Village (a toll gate has been built and barriers installed, just waiting to start charging), and Yading Scenic Area (exit via Chonggu Temple and Pearl Lake direction)

Transportation Methods from Various Regions in China:

1. Sichuan Province Options:

A. Take a direct vehicle (ride-share, bus, or train) to Xichang, then hire a car directly from Xichang to Jialuo (12 hours).

B. Take a direct vehicle (ride-share, bus, or train) to Xichang, then take the Xichang to Muli County bus (one daily), followed by a rural minibus to Shuiluo Township (departure times vary), and then hire a car to Jialuo.

C. Take a direct vehicle (ride-share, bus, or train) to Daocheng County, then hire a car to Jialuo (approximately 6–8 hours; the road is currently in poor condition and extremely difficult to travel—Not recommended).

2. Other Provinces Options:

A. Fly directly to Xichang, then hire a car directly from Xichang to Jialuo (12 hours).

B. Fly directly to Xichang, then take the Xichang to Muli County bus (one daily), followed by a rural minibus to Shuiluo Township (departure times vary), and then hire a car to Jialuo.

C. Fly directly to Yading, then take a bus to Daocheng County, and then hire a car to Jialuo (approximately 6–8 hours; the road is currently in poor condition and extremely difficult to travel—Not recommended).