Songpan is an old Qing garrison town in south-west China. Situated at 8,000 feet this bustling market town is situated near the Shimending Mountain Range , in the midst of idyllic countryside, pristine forests, lakes and waterfalls.
Songpan is a throwback to a more simple way of life. The people here live a Tibetan lifestyle even though they are said to be descendants of the Mongols themselves. Within the old fortress walls, horses are tied up to every street corner and multiple vendors hawk their tasty street snacks of mystery meat skewers. The scene leaves you with the feeling that Clint Eastwood is going to come out of the saloon at any moment and face off with a Chinese Warrior.
The best way to explore the surrounding wilderness is to set out from Songpan on a horse trek. Trekking operators tout for business all over town, and expeditions range from 2 to 12 days.
