Volosem

Introducing Volosem

Wolo Semo, also known as Wolo Semo Sacred Mountain, is a beautiful snow-capped mountain located within the Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area. Legend has it that long ago, a male deity named Dago fell deeply in love with the beautiful goddess Wolo Semo. Once, Dago used a piece of silk to polish a mirror and gifted it to his beloved goddess. However, a demon intervened, and the goddess accidentally shattered the mirror. The fragments scattered across the human world, forming 114 shimmering lakes, nestled like gems in the valley's serene forests. From then on, the fairytale wonderland of Jiuzhaigou came into being.

Climate and best time to travel

Highland humid climate;

Winter is the best time to see snow-capped mountains

Tickets

Included in the Jiuzhaigou scenic area ticket

April 1-November 15, peak season ticket price: ¥110/person

January 16th - March 31st of the following year, off-season ticket price: ¥40/person

Attraction opening hours

Peak season: 06:30~18:00

Off-season: 06:30~17:00

---

Most Popular FAQs for Volosem

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Volosem is a remote Tibetan village located in the Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan. It is significant for its pristine natural beauty and its deep-rooted Tibetan Buddhist culture. The village is an example of Tibetan life, surrounded by dramatic mountains and monasteries, offering insight into the rich history of the region.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Volosem is located in the Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Sichuan Province, China. The best way to reach Volosem is by taxi or private car from Chengdu or other nearby towns, as public transportation options are limited. It is recommended to travel by road as the area is remote and situated in the mountains.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Volosem is a village, so there are no specific opening hours. The best time to visit is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is milder, and the area is lush and green. The winter months can be cold and challenging for travel due to the altitude.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no entrance fee to visit Volosem, as it is a rural village. However, certain monasteries and cultural sites within the area may charge a small fee for entry. Tickets for these can typically be bought on-site.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Tickets are not required for visiting the village, but it is advisable to book tours or accommodation in advance, especially if traveling during peak tourist seasons (summer and Tibetan holidays).

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Volosem can take anywhere from a half-day to a full day, depending on how much time you spend hiking and exploring the monasteries or engaging with the local Tibetan culture.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The main highlights include the Tibetan monasteries, the picturesque mountain views, and the local villages. The surrounding nature and Tibetan architecture provide the most enriching experiences in Volosem.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available for visitors, particularly for those interested in the region's culture and monasteries. Local guides are typically available in Mandarin, and some may offer English-speaking tours. It is best to arrange tours in advance, especially for foreign visitors.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots in Volosem include panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, Tibetan monasteries, and traditional Tibetan houses. The sunrise and sunset over the mountains provide exceptional photo opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit by exploring the village and interacting with the locals. Then, head to the nearby monasteries and take a hike through the surrounding natural landscapes. If time allows, visit other Tibetan villages nearby to gain a deeper understanding of the culture.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

There are no special night visits or light shows in Volosem. However, visiting the village at night offers a peaceful, serene experience, with starry skies and a tranquil atmosphere.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Volosem is generally not crowded, as it is a remote destination. It is best to visit during the weekdays, avoiding Tibetan holidays and summer weekends when tourism can increase.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities like public toilets are available in and around the village. There are limited food options, mostly offering Tibetan and local Sichuan cuisine. It is recommended to bring bottled water and snacks with you, as the area is remote.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The terrain in Volosem can be challenging due to the mountainous environment, so it may not be suitable for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can enjoy the village and surrounding nature, though some hiking may be required.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is the preferred method of payment in Volosem, especially for local shops and small establishments. Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay may be accepted in some places, but it is advisable to carry cash.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are limited food options in Volosem, primarily local Tibetan eateries offering traditional dishes such as yak meat, butter tea, and Tibetan bread. For more variety, consider traveling to nearby towns in the Aba Prefecture.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available, especially for those who prefer plant-based Tibetan food, such as barley and vegetables. Halal food is not widely available, but vegetarian dishes can be easily found.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are basic guesthouses and homestays in Volosem, offering simple but comfortable accommodations. For more luxurious options, travelers may need to stay in larger towns like Aba or Chengdu.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Tibetan monasteries in Aba Prefecture and the scenic areas of the Tibetan Plateau. These can be combined in a day trip to explore the cultural and natural beauty of the region.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops in Volosem offer traditional Tibetan crafts such as handmade textiles, jewelry, and thangka paintings. Visitors can purchase these items as mementos of their visit.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Volosem, travelers can continue their trip by taxi or private car to other parts of Aba Prefecture or Chengdu. There are also buses available to nearby towns, though private transportation offers more flexibility.