So if I really do the Minya Konka hike, what would be the best way to go there from Beijing?
Flight to Chengdu are expensive, at least 1200RMB including tax, so i will take a train. There is a 26.5 hours train, but maybe there is a interesting place on the way where i should stay a couple of days?

http://www.trainby.com/train-number/T7.html

And also the slower K train could be a option because the fast train will arrive in the late evening, so if I stay one night more on train I dont have to pay a hotel for that night.

http://www.trainby.com/train-number/K1363.html

I dont want to stop in Xian, I know that city very well. Any other advice?