Since ancient times, caravans have traveled via the tea horse path between Lijiang in northern Yunnan and Kangding in southwest Sichuan. This is an important trade route linking land locked Sichuan and the border province of Yunnan. Carrying tea, caravans set off from Lijiang. After arriving at Kangding, wranglers load up their horses with Tibetan herbs, furs and games and then return home. The distance of this part of Tea Horse Path is about 400 km long.

In 1928, American Botanist Joseph Lock set off from Lijiang, passed through Muli and Yading, finally reached Daocheng. His experience was published in National Geographic and this route was thereafter named "Road of Lock".

About Daocheng

Daocheng in Sichuan province is considered another Shangri-la hidden within the mountains in southwest China.

Daocheng, subordinate to the Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, is special with its geographical features and natural scenery. The area is enveloped by waterfalls, thick forests, snow-capped mountains, made further unique by the Tibetan culture of the people.