Haizishan Mountain Nature Reserve between Daocheng and Litang, Garze

Overview

The Haizishan (海子山) National Nature Reserve is located in Daocheng County (稻城县) and Litang County (理塘县) in Garze Prefecture (甘孜州), Sichuan Province (四川省). Established in 1995 and upgraded to a national nature reserve in 2008, it spans an area of 459,161 hectares and is designated for the protection of alpine wetlands and wildlife, particularly the endangered musk deer. This reserve is one of the largest high-altitude wetlands on the Tibetan Plateau, serving as a vital water source for the Jinsha River (金沙江) and the Yalong River (雅砻江).

Historical Background

The Haizishan National Nature Reserve was founded in 1995 and was initially recognized as a provincial nature reserve in 1997. It gained national status on January 22, 2008, following approval from the State Council.

Geography

Location

The reserve is situated between longitudes 99°33′00″ and 100°31′48″ east and latitudes 29°06′36″ and 30°06′00″ north.

Topography

The reserve features a high-altitude plateau within the Hengduan Mountain range. The highest peak, Mount Geni (格聂神山), rises to 6,204 meters, while the lowest point near Lama Long (拉玛隆) in Daocheng is at 3,160 meters, resulting in a relative elevation difference of 3,044 meters and an average elevation of 4,200 meters.

Climate

Haizishan is characterized by a cold temperate climate typical of high-altitude regions, with cold, dry air and intense sunlight. The average annual temperature is around 3°C, with a frost-free period that is quite short. Precipitation is unevenly distributed throughout the year, peaking between June and August, while the period from December to February experiences the least rainfall, averaging 718.9 millimeters annually.

Hydrology

The Haizishan area serves as a watershed for the Yalong and Jinsha rivers. Two significant tributaries, Litang River (理塘河) and Wuliang River (无量河), flow through the reserve.

Vegetation

The reserve hosts diverse vegetation types, including deciduous broadleaf forests, mixed coniferous and broadleaf forests, coniferous forests, shrubs, alpine meadows, and rocky tundra. The vegetation displays unique layering and mixing patterns.

Protection Goals

Conservation Focus

The reserve aims to protect alpine wetlands and musk deer, which are among the key wildlife species in the area.

Wildlife Resources

Surveys conducted between 2003 and 2005 identified 64 mammal species within the reserve, 26 of which are nationally protected. These include critically endangered species such as the takin, white-lipped deer, and snow leopard.

Plant Resources

The reserve is home to 1,418 species of seed plants across 456 genera and 101 families, including 40 species listed as national key protected plants.

Tourism Information

Visitors can explore various attractions within the reserve, including Mofanggou (磨房沟), Xingyicuo (兴伊错), Rubuchaka Hot Springs (茹布查卡温泉), Sangdui Town (桑堆小镇), and several monasteries.

How to Get There

Transportation

By Air: The nearest major airport is in Kangding (康定). From there, you can take a bus or hire a taxi to Daocheng or Litang.
By Bus: Regular bus services connect Chengdu (成都) to Daocheng and Litang. The journey may take around 10-12 hours.
By Car: Renting a car is an option for those who prefer flexibility. The roads are scenic but can be challenging, so it’s recommended to check conditions beforehand.

Travel Tips

Altitude Awareness: Due to the high altitude, visitors should acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness.
Best Time to Visit: The best months to visit are from May to October when the weather is milder and the scenery is lush.
Wildlife Watching: Early mornings or late afternoons are the best times for spotting wildlife.
Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of water and snacks as facilities can be sparse in remote areas.
Respect Local Culture: Be mindful of the local Tibetan culture and practices while visiting the monasteries and natural sites.

Conservation Significance

The Haizishan National Nature Reserve is crucial for the conservation of high-altitude wetlands and musk deer, showcasing unique ecosystems and biodiversity. Its natural landscapes and rich wildlife make it a vital area for ecological, economic, and social values in China’s conservation efforts.