What this solves
"Do I need a guide?" has changed three times since 2018. As of late 2024, the rule is roughly: Chinese citizens on the day-trip scenic loop (Chonggu → Luorong → shuttle) can go without a guide. Inner-kora multi-day treks for foreign trekkers require a licensed Tibetan guide (or a registered Chinese trekking agency). The tool applies the rule to your plan and tells you what booking you'll need.
Tell me about your plan
How to read the result
SOLO OK WITH PERMIT — The day-loop scenic trail is open without a guide for everyone. Buy your ticket at the entrance (¥150 entry + ¥120 shuttle) and walk. No guide booking required.
GUIDE REQUIRED BY CURRENT RULES — Inner-kora multi-day treks (especially for non-Chinese citizens) require either a licensed Tibetan guide or a registered trekking agency. You'll need to provide guide ID at the ticket check. Booking in advance through the park or a registered agency is essential.
NOT ALLOWED / NOT RECOMMENDED — Some combinations (foreign + solo + no Mandarin + multi-day) require a guide by law, not just by recommendation. Don't try to skirt this — they'll turn you back at Chonggu.
Note that "guide required" and "guide recommended" are different. A solo Chinese trekker with high-altitude experience can in principle do the 2-day route without a guide, but should still file a route plan with the park office.
Limitations
FAQ
A: For 2024, expect ¥600–900/day for an individual Tibetan guide, ¥300–500/day per person for an agency group of 4+. Includes local knowledge, route safety, and rescue contact.
A: Yading is in Sichuan Province, not Tibet Autonomous Region. You do NOT need a TTP. Foreign visitors only need a regular China visa, a park ticket, and (for inner kora) the guide booking.
A: Yes, but the foreign partner still needs the guide booking. Buy tickets together, walk with the guide. The Chinese partner can be with you on the trail.
A: Yes — the day loop is the answer most people need. If you can accept not doing Tanggu La, the rule question goes away and you have a stunning day at Milk Lake + Five-Colour Lake.