China : The South-West

Overview

South-west China, consisting of the provinces of Sichuan, Yunnan and Guizhou, has some of China's greatest highlights with its fascinating ethnic diversity which give the region much of its colour and charm, as well as its diverse topography which give rise to a spread of ecosystems that ranges from the tropical rainforests of Xishuangbanna to the permanent glacial peaks of western Sichuan and north-west Yunnan.

For lovers of all things Tibetan, this region holds great interest as much of western Sichuan and north-western Yunnan were once part of the Tibetan Empire and are still very much culturally Tibetan, perhaps even more so these days than many places in Tibet proper. These areas offer thundering rapids, breathtaking snowy mountains, vast grasslands, big skies, remote monasteries, and interesting and friendly people.