With impressive landscapes, pristine waters and colour-changing lakes, Jiuzhaigou National Park in Sichuan Province is one of China's most popular natural destinations. But there's a lesser known alternative, just off the beaten track.

In a neighbouring valley, adventurous travellers can get a close glimpse of some spectacular natural scenes, combined with enigmatic Tibetan culture. Let's head down to the northern edge of China's Sichuan Province to take a closer look.

Jiuzhaigou, or "Nine Village Valley", is China's pioneering and most visited National Park.

Nestled between snow-capped mountains on the eastern slopes of the Tibetan Plateau, its far-flung location is proving no deterrent.

The highlight is the color-changing lakes of emeralds, turquoise and vivid blues, caused by the special geological conditions.

It's these picturesque natural landscapes that are tempting tourists to the region.

Max Chiu & Elaine Hon, HK tourists, said, "We've been to lots of places. This is very colourful, and the lakes are beautiful. So that's one reason why we decided to choose Jiuzhaigou for taking our wedding pictures."

With tickets at nearly 50 US dollars, including the fee to be able to board the park buses, visiting is far from cheap.

Despite the cost, around two million tourists visit the park every year. Domestic tourists usually arrive in tour groups with tight schedules.

But in order to get closer to nature and enjoy a slice of real local Tibetan culture, one must go further into the mountains.

The hidden and unspoiled Zharu valley opens its doors for those willing to pay a small premium. Tours range from a one day walk and a visit to a small local museum, to a two or three day trek around the sacred Zhayizhaga mountain -- a four and a half thousand meter colossus, and a destination for Buddhist pilgrims.

Zhuo Ma is greeting a new tourist. She was among the first to open her house for visiting guests.

The arrival of so-called eco-tourists in the area requires a new model of lodges - a far cry from gleaming urban hotels. Here, Zhuo Ma shows a regular visitor the family's honeycombs, part of the home grown produce served to guests.

Zhuo Ma, owner of Zhuo Ma Home Stay, said, "I am a Tibetan, and I was born here. So I can introduce them to our culture and I feel very proud. "

Zhuo Ma once thought that business opportunities only lay in modern cities. But since she came back home to open her business, she's definitely changed her mind.

As Zhuo Ma serves her guests typical yak-butter tea, she hopes many other residents of Jiuzhaigou will follow suit. 

source: CNTV