Begin your adventure with a pickup from your hotel in city centre Chengdu.

Travel to Taoping Village, a living fortress frozen in time. Built in 111 BC, this is the world's best‑preserved ancient Qiang settlement still inhabited today. Known as the “Mysterious Eastern Castle” and a “living fossil of Qiang architecture,” it's a labyrinth of stone where 8 hidden entrances and winding passages only locals can navigate. At its heart rise 30‑metre stone watchtowers, built without nails or mortar, yet they've survived centuries of earthquakes. Beneath your feet, an ancient spring‑fed water network still flows, and visit local Qiang households, where the people keep alive their traditions, embroidery, and a way of life unchanged for generations.

Next, head to Ganbao Tibetan Village, the largest and best-preserved Gyalrong Tibetan settlement in Li County. Built entirely from river stones and giant boulders, the village's houses are connected like a fortress, earning it the title “First Gyalrong Tibetan Village.” This is also the birthplace of “Boba Senge” (Tibetan Lion Dance), a national intangible cultural heritage – a powerful, slow dance created by returning soldiers to commemorate their fallen comrades in battle.

Enjoy a traditional Tibetan lunch in a Tibetan family-run restaurant. After lunch, explore the village, admire traditional stone-built Tibetan houses, and hike up to the viewpoint for a panoramic view of the valley and the village. Optionally, rent Tibetan costumes for photos, try butter tea, and other Tibetan drinks (at your own expense).

Finally, relax on the drive back to Chengdu, reflecting on your unforgettable journey through time and civilisation.