Meishan to Aba: Ultimate Road Trip Guide for Scenic Highways

The drive from Meishan to Aba traverses the transition from the Sichuan Basin's red hills to the eastern Tibetan Plateau's high grasslands. The route, often via the G317 and G213, crosses the Min River at Wenchuan, a town rebuilt after the 2008 earthquake. Expect a 420-kilometer journey with elevations climbing from 500 meters to over 3,500 meters.

Two main highways connect Meishan and Aba: the G0511 and G317 via Chengdu, and the S9 plus G213 via Dujiangyan. The latter offers more dramatic scenery but adds 30 minutes to the drive. The fastest route is around 7 hours without stops, but plan for 10-12 hours to appreciate the landscapes.

Curves and steep grades demand caution; use low gears when descending to avoid brake failure. Watch for free-roaming livestock (especially yaks) on the grasslands. For families, the route offers ample rest areas with toilets and picnic spots. Yingxiu has a memorial museum that is educational for children.

For pets, many guesthouses in Wenchuan and Barkam accept dogs, but on the road, keep your pet secure in a carrier. Never leave pets in the car under high-altitude sun.

Plan rest stops every 2-3 hours; key points include Yingxiu (near the quake ruins), Maoxian (with Qingcheng Mountain views), and Barkam (a Tibetan cultural hub). Use roadside pullouts at Zengtou and Gonggar to stretch legs. A 15-minute power walk combats altitude fatigue.

Leaving Meishan, you pass bamboo forests and tea plantations. As you climb toward Wenchuan, the vegetation shifts to dry valleys and rugged peaks. The Wolong National Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a detour from the main route, offering panda conservation areas.

Along the way, small towns like Yingxiu sell local produce: apples, walnuts, and honey. In Maoxian, try the Qiang-style hotpot and taktak (a barley flour dish). For handicrafts, stop in Heishui County to find yak wool weavings.

The climate changes drastically: Meishan is subtropical (20°C in May), but Aba is cold alpine (5°C). Pack layers and be prepared for snow at high passes even in summer.

For unique stops, consider the how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities guide.

Fuel stations are abundant in Meishan and along the G317, but once you pass Wenchuan, they become sparse. Fill up in Yingxiu or Maoxian, places that also offer basic mechanical services. Petrol prices in Aba are typically 0.50 RMB/liter higher than in the basin.

• Best stops Meishan to Aba: Wenchuan for earthquake memorial, Maoxian for Qiang culture, and Barkam for grassland scenery.
• How long to drive Meishan to Aba: About 7 hours non-stop; with breaks, expect 10-12 hours with photo stops and meals.
• Is it worth driving Meishan to Aba: Yes, for the dramatic elevation change and access to hidden valleys only reachable by car.

Road quality is generally good, with the G317 a well-maintained asphalt highway. However, landslides and maintenance work can cause delays, especially during summer rains. Check local weather and road reports from Sichuan Transportation Department before departing.