Since May 2026, no permits are given, nor checked…
Since 2026 spring, almost all permits have been suspended to all peaks in Sichuan. All commercial climbs are stopped or are conducted un-permitted style.
Who is in Charge now?
Sichuan Mountaineering Association (who used to permit on climbing trips) no longer has power to issue permit without approval from local authority of where the mountains are located. No authorization process from local authority has been established.
What’s still Permitted?
Around 10 commercial 5000m summit. (these are usually touristy, busy & easy, non-technical 5000m summits near Siguniang/Songpan). Please contact us for any newer updates on this.
What’s actually happening?
The climbing are still happening domestically among the independent small groups. Most independent climbing/first summits (non-commercial climbs or even commercial climbs) done by domestic Chinese climbers aredone without a permit and nothing really happens to the climbers. The remote places have zero checks by any authority.
Climbing without a Permit as a foreigner, what’s the worst result?
Please read the “Regulations for Foreigners Climbing in China” for the consequences of climbing without permits in Sichuan. Normally the checks are done by the local authority, and the consequences for unauthorized climbs depend on how you respond to local authority checks. If you are on a guided trip, nothing will happen as long as guide’s advice is followed. If you do self-supported climbs, try to do your homework well and choose the remote places and just go, or find someone who knows the places and access. Plan for redundancy on risks. If mountain accident happens, try to avoid attention.
Sichuan Mountain Guide only writes the above content based on the facts. To follow on the most recent updates and regulations or other easier ways of climbing in Sichuan, you may contact the following people for more information: alexlitang@aliyun.com
