In the morning we leave Markham, drive eastward and cross Jinshajiang Bridge, the border bridge between Tibet and Sichuan, and arrive at Litang via Batang. Enjoy the scenery in the spectacular Yitang Canyon with its virgin forests and hot springs. We take a rest at Batang, famous for its traditional Tibetan songs and dances and Mount Genie standing proud on the horizon.

Mount Genie (or Genyen), standing at 6,204 meters above sea level, is the third highest peak in Sichuan Province. Ranking 13th among the 24 divine mountains in Tibetan Buddhism and one of the three places for ascetic practices, the mountain attracts numerous Tibetan pilgrims. Quietly lying on the Kangnan plateau, Mount Genie is rarely known to outsiders.

Litang is located in Sichuan Province in south-west China, has a population of approximately 50’000 and is also part of the ancient Tibetan province of Kham. The town is a major center of Tibetan culture in Kham and at an elevation of 4’100 meters one of the highest in the world. Several Dalai Lamas were born here and lived in the local monastery. Litang is a bustling little town with colorful street life thanks to the nomadic shepherds and Tibetan people coming to sell and buy their products. The older parts are situated on the hill slopes to the east, while busy construction works are extending the place into the surrounding grassy plains. Every year a 10 days horse racing festival takes place in Litang.

We stay overnight at the “Genie Hotel”.