2025 Meri Snow Mountain Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

Getting There - From the Upper Yubeng Village, it is about two hours’ hike to reach Yakou with an alititude of 3,700 meters. Then you will pass through a primitive forest to reach the Base Camp. From there, it’s another one hour’s hike to reach the Ice Lake. I hiked from upper Yubeng village to the Iced Lake for less than three hours one way and honestly the views along the way were absolutely stunning - having traveled to quite some places I have never seen anything like that in the entire world. It is literally out of the world. When you reach the Iced Lake, you will see that it is a dark green lake that is formed by the melting snow water from the Meili Snow Mountain. The blue glaciers and the green lake complement each other, as melt water from the glaciers and snow falls from the cliff constantly replenishing the lake. #hiking #yunnan #naturalwonders #nationalpark #wintergetaway #awesomepic

Getting There - The trail to Sacred Waterfall from Yubeng village is one of the three main hiking trails that travelers explore in Yubeng. From upper Yubeng village, the hike takes around four hours (three in my case) depending on your speed but it is definitely at beginners’ level as the trail is already well paved. Along the way you will see primitive forests, wild animals roaming freely, colorful prayer flags, stones piled up for prayers, and of course a beautiful waterfall at the end of the trail. I finished the hike on the same day after I hiked from Xidang village to Upper Yubeng village so it was around 40km in total for that day. And I did it only because this trail is really easy. For anyone at beginners’ level I highly recommend this trail as it’s beautiful and overall relaxing if you are not carrying big backpacks. #hiking #naturalwonders #tigeryear2022 #nationalpark #wintergetaway #awesomepic #

Sacred Waterfall is about 6kms from lower Yubeng Village. There is already a paved trail leading to the Sacred Waterfall, so don't worry that you will get lost or sth. First you will walk through the forest along the stream with many 玛尼堆s piled up. There are also several pavilions you can rest a bit. But if the squirrels see you, they will run over or jump on you for food. In the middle, there is a store selling yak milk which was pretty yummy and snacks. The boss also raises some lovely and docile horses, I can't help touching them though I was a little bit afraid😅 It took me around 3 hours to reach the top with a wild area of prayer flags. Unfortunately, it was winter time, so no waterfall, instead of some ice fall But it's a stunning view, the colorful prayer flags waving in the white snow. It's said your dream will come true if you pray under the waterfall sincerely. So if you go there, do remember to make a wish! I wanna go back again in May or June when it's green with flowers, as well as falling waterfall. #momentsmission #hikingtrails #hike #waterfalls

Yubeng Village is an idyllic land of 3000m altitude with only 2 available roads from Xidang Village or Ninong direction. It takes 6-8 hours to hike into the village from Xidang Village or 1 hour drive (cost 200 RMB, other cars are not allowed to drive into the village as it's really difficult to drive). It was stunning all along not only because of the virgin forest with snow, but also the amazing snow mountains, which you will feel so close to. The village is seperated as upper village and lower village with 900m altitude difference, takes 35-40 minutes to reach. Staying in upper village, you can enjoy two snow mountains: 神女峰 & 五佛峰, and a nice view of lower village, closer to the Icy Lake(冰湖). While in lower village, there is a temper and small lake with the reflection of the snow mountain, feels like a drawing, it's closer to Sacred Waterfall（神瀑）and Sacred Lake（神湖）and the Ninong valley. In the morning, you can enjoy morning bell ring of the cows, early sunrise reflecting on the snow mountains; enjoy the forest or stream at noon, and sunset in lower village. What else can we ask for!? #momentsmission #vacation

The Icy Lake near Yubeng Village is about 3800m height, which takes 4-5 hours to arrive and 3 hours to go back. It's my first snow hiking trail, kinda of super excited. First we will come across a farm, then all the way up into the forest with more and more snow piling up. It's unbelievable how those lovely and bold those squirrels are. They just came into us and even jump onto us for food, eat and carry some back to their home. There is a platform where we can have a quite open view of the icy lake, and forest decorated with snow, what a Christmas vibe! Coming down from the platform, here comes my favourite part：super thick snow in the forest! Can't help laying down and have fun, while other people have a snowball fight! Hahaha~ After 1.5 hours hike through another farm, and a small peak, we finally arrived the gorgeous Icy Lake covered in white, with some glaciers on the top. Beautiful as it is, but watch out when you walk around the lake as there are constantly icy bricks or rocks falling down. Here are some photos! #momentsmission #hikingtrails #hike #hikingadventures

there are 2 ways to get there, both arrive in Xidang （西当), then you can choose to hike till Yubeng which it's taking about 6-7 hours, or use the car which the cost is 200 rmb per person. there are 3 main hikes to do it: the glacier lake, will take around 8-9 hours go and back, it's super nice, the hike is pretty hard for the water falls, it takes 5 hours, the path is made complete by concrete so not so good, the water falls are nice, you can walk under them and drink the water. the third one, I didn't do so I can't say how it is. both the hikes I did, unfortunately there's rubbish around even if there are rubbish bin and behind the house where you can buy water, it's very dirty. there are many hotels to choose, depends on your budget, some are in construction, I stayed whole the time in upper Yubeng which from my point of view has better view. #waterfall#beautifulsunsets#naturalwonders#hiking#nationalpark#lakes

Getting There -  Start this hike from Upper Yubeng Village Attractions - Many prayer flags and sites along the way. The trail is marked with red flags and a great viewing platform half way. It’s quite steep in some parts. I completed this hike in 5 hours. Hotels - I stayed in Upper Yubeng village at Gap Time. Food & Restaurants - There’s some noodles and water available at base camp but I recommend bringing your own. #naturalwonders#summervacation#hikingtrails

Yubeng is one of the best places to hike in China (in my opinion). The 11kish hike from Xidong is a pleasant one and there are 3 main hikes from Yubeng Village. the Sacred Waterfall and Glacier Lake. both are lovely but the lake is a much tougher hike. There are 2 parts to Yubeng… upper and lower. upper is where you start the lake hike and the waterfall is from lower. leaving the village you can either hike to Ninong ( I would advise this) or back to Xidong. you can find buses from Ninong back to Deqen or Shangri La. #summervacation

Sacred Waterfall hike in Yubeng Getting There - Start your hike at either Lower or Upper Yubeng. Stone path leads the way to the waterfall! Attractions - Many sacred sites and colorful prayer flags along the way. The first half of the hike follows the river 💦 Hotels - Many options in Lower and Upper Yubeng - I liked Gap Time Hostel Food & Restaurants - Small shop just before the summit for water and snacks but I recommend bringing your own I completed this hike in about 3 hours. #naturalwonders#summervacation#hikingtrails

Another of Yubengs epic hikes. This one is more difficult than sacred waterfall. There is a nice easy trail in the approach to the forest. Then the incline begins. There is a rough track and you mostly covered by the forest for about 2km. This was the most challenging part of the hike. From here you move out of the forest to a plateau. There is a straight forward walk towards the lake. The final 800m are quite tough. You will stop a lot for rests. The plateau scenery is fantastic. The 3n half hr hike is worth it when you see the glacier lake. The hike down is easy in the dry , unfortunately it rained and we descended slowly as it’s dangerous when it rains. Fantastic experience overall . #naturalwonders#summervacation#hikingtrails

One of 4 hikes offered in the Yubeng area this one is probably the easiest. The trek begins in lower Yubeng with a nice stroll into the forest. You can here the river flow beside you as you walk. The first 3k are easy and then the walk gets steeper. It’s concrete steps all the way and when you reach the waterfall you won’t be disappointed. There is one place to get snacks along the way but you should bring your own. It took us 2 n half hrs from upper Yubeng to reach the summit. Decending is fine. Fantastic hike overall. No need to hit it that early as there is limited things to do in the evening in Yubeng. #summervacation#hikingtrails

Great view of Meli mountains. This viewing platform is located in the heart of downtown deqen. The lady at the entrance assured us that the reasonable 40rmb entrance was for 3 days and made sure we knew to be there at 6:38 in the morning. Across the road there is a westernish cafe although it’s expensive you can sit out and see the mountains with a coffee. #summervacation#hikingtrails

On our visit to Yunnan ancient town in Shangrila, situated in Deqen, we suddenly got bumped into this serene buddha temple. Although I know there's a huge bell or drum sort of thing in Yunnan, we never searched about it🥸. So luckily in Deqen, on our night market exploration we found this beauty. Also the speciality of this temple is with the female buddha👸, which is quite rare to find as far as my travel in China. The huge tower like structure that you see here, will be rolled by people and you make a wish💫. From this place, you also have the whole view of the market, which is fantastic🎉🍾. #shangrila #ancienttowns #maydaytrip#urbanexplorer#happylaborday

Yubeng Village: A secluded and unknown place in an alphine valley mere kms from the Tibetan border. It was never discovered and not accesible by road. You can either trek in on your own or ride a mule to go to the village. Everyone may have heard of tiger leaping gorge or Jade Dragon Snow Mountain but not many people have heard of this small village - A village that is situated 3000m above sea level. Day 1: Yubeng Village 13-16km Day 2: Sacred waterfall 14-18km DAY 3: Glacier lake trek 18km Glacier lake formed by snow water from Meili Snow Mountain and the main water resource of Yubeng Village. Absolutely intimidated by the snowmelt point and the narrow path along the way and the trek itself was no easy feat mainly due to the uninvited visitor AMS at 3.6ft. As we ascend and descend so quickly for the first 3-4km, the AMS symtoms started showing when i was at 3.6 and above. But i conquered the entire trail and managed to reach to the top (3.8ft above sea level). #urbanexplorer #mydestinations #hikes #mountainview #yunnantravel

Stunning view of glaciers ND mountains around Yubeng Village on our hike to lake of god. #yubengvillage #glaciers #yunnantravel #unforgettableexperiences #hiking

1. Best Travel Season Golden Viewing Period: October to May is the ideal time to visit Meili Snow Mountain. In late autumn, the multicolored valleys contrast beautifully with the snow-capped peaks. Winter transforms the area into a snowy wonderland, with a 70% chance of witnessing the "Golden Sunrise" phenomenon. From March to May, melting snow reveals alpine rhododendrons in full bloom, painting a breathtaking floral landscape against the mountain backdrop. December to February is especially recommended, as dry and clear weather significantly increases visibility of Kawagarbo Peak. 2. Transportation Guide (1) Public Transport • Air + Bus Combo: Fly to Shangri-La Airport, then take a shared shuttle (¥120–150/person, ~4 hours) directly to Feilai Temple Viewing Deck. • Long-Distance Bus: One daily direct bus from Lijiang Bus Station to Deqin (~6–7 hours). More frequent departures from Shangri-La Bus Station (8:30 AM–12:00 PM). From Deqin, a 20-minute taxi ride takes you to Feilai Temple. (2) Self-Driving Tips Follow National Highway 214 (Yunnan-Tibet route). Key notes: • The Shangri-La to Deqin section has continuous hairpin turns with speed limits of 40–60 km/h. • Chains are required when crossing Baima Snow Mountain Pass (4,292m) from November to March. • Download offline maps—mobile signals are weak in some areas. 3. Must-Visit Attractions | Attraction | Highlights | Recommended Experience | |------------|------------|-------------------------| | Feilai Temple Viewing Deck | World’s best spot for "Golden Sunrise" views | Arrive by 6:30 AM for panoramic shots of the 13 peaks | | Mingyong Glacier | Low-latitude maritime glacier | Hike the 7km trail or take an electric cart to save energy | | Yubeng Village | Hiking paradise dubbed "Shangri-La" | Classic 3-day trek: Xidang entry, Nilong exit | | Wunongding Viewing Deck | Secluded gem | Perfect for capturing starry skies with the snow mountain | 4. Accommodation Picks (1) Luxury Stays • Songtsam Lodge Meili: Tibetan-style retreat with stargazing gear and mountain yoga sessions. • JISUNYATA·Meili: Panoramic suites facing Kawagarbo Peak, featuring Instagram-famous golden photo frames (peak season: ¥3,500+/night). (2) Budget-Friendly • Meili Memory Inn: Rooftop terrace with VIP views for ~¥200/person. • Pearl Valley Hotel: 3-minute walk to Feilai Temple; some rooms offer mountain-view bathtubs. (3) Immersive Experience • Yubeng Hiker Hostels: Experience village life at "Hiker’s Home" or Meiduo International Youth Hostel. 5. Local Flavors 1. Butter Tea Set: Paired with tsampa (roasted barley flour) and dried cheese for an authentic Tibetan breakfast. 2. Yak Meat Feast: Try stir-fried yak jerky with chili or yak hotpot (¥80–120/person). 3. Tibetan Pastries: Butter-infused ginseng fruit cakes and barley bread—sweet yet light. 4. Specialty Drinks: Homemade barley wine and butter tea to ward off the cold. 6. Itinerary Ideas (1) 2-Day Highlights Day 1: Sunrise at Feilai Temple → Mingyong Glacier hike → Return for sunset and stargazing. Day 2: Wunongding Viewing Deck → Light hike in Nilong Grand Canyon → Depart. (2) 3-Day Deep Dive Day 1: Arrive from Lijiang/Shangri-La → Sunset at Feilai Temple. Day 2: Trek from Xidang to Yubeng → Sacred Waterfall round trip. Day 3: Yubeng → Ice Lake → Exit via Nilong Canyon → Return. 7. Packing Essentials ✅ Altitude Prep: Take Rhodiola supplements 10 days prior; carry oxygen cans (pricey onsite). ✅ Clothing: Windproof jacket, fleece liner, anti-slip hiking boots, thermal gloves. ✅ Photography: Wide-angle lens for mountain vistas, tripod for time-lapses. ✅ Cultural Etiquette: Follow "circle mountains, don’t point" tradition; spin prayer wheels clockwise. ✅ Eco-Tip: Bring trash bags—littering is strictly prohibited in glacier zones. Pro Tip: Weather changes rapidly—allow 1–2 flexible days to maximize chances of seeing the "Golden Sunrise." May every traveler be blessed with a glimpse of the sacred mountain’s glory!

😍 Dear friends, this Lijiang + Shangri-La + Meili Snow Mountain trip is absolutely amazing! 🌄 Off-the-beaten-path hiking routes, avoid the crowds, and enjoy an exclusive feast of snow mountains and glaciers. 🏔️ Untouched secret spots, like stepping into a fairyland, every shot looks like a masterpiece. 👀 The Goddess Peak is mysterious and charming, exploring the southeast slope is super thrilling. 🌳 Dense forests and riverbanks full of wild charm, a paradise for hiking, photography, and adventure lovers! 👫 Couples and friends traveling together will feel their bonds strengthen quickly, a must-share experience! 👇 Click below to easily start a 6-day, 5-night small group tour! 👨‍🦯 Led by experienced guides, small groups of fewer than 10 people are super reliable! 💪 Avoid travel pitfalls and enjoy a fun, cost-effective trip! 🎒 This itinerary is packed with highlights! Starting from Lijiang, first head to Shangri-La to experience Tibetan culture. 🏔️ Meili Snow Mountain is the main attraction, the southern slope is exclusive and stunning, with snow mountains and glaciers right before your eyes, leaving you speechless! 🌲 Hike through dense forests and riverbanks, breathe fresh air, and have fun encountering small animals. 📷 Goddess Peak is a photographer’s paradise, capturing different beauties from various angles. Explore the southeast slope, challenge yourself, and feel an overwhelming sense of achievement! 👫 Couples stroll through the secret spots, filling the atmosphere with romance; friends travel together, full of laughter and joy. The professional team takes care of everything, from accommodation to meals, so you can just fully enjoy the journey!

The Hidden Glacier Heartland of Meili Snow Mountain Worth Visiting, Yet Overlooked by Many||I don’t know how many people share this inexplicable yearning for snow-capped mountains like I do, which led me to Meili Snow Mountain. I set aside two days to witness the golden sunrise over the mountains. At dawn, the viewing platforms at Feilai Temple and Wunongding were packed with crowds. But as soon as the sunrise ended, most people hurried away, leaving the areas nearly empty. Yet, still craving more, we chose to go against the flow—heading to the Mingyong Glacier at the foot of Kawagarbo Peak! A few awe-inspiring facts about this sacred mountain and glacier: 🔸 Kawagarbo is the foremost of Tibet’s eight sacred mountains. 🔸 Mingyong Glacier is the longest glacier in the Meili Snow Mountain range. 🔸 Yet, over the past 20 years, it has retreated by more than 500 meters. There’s no direct shuttle from Feilai Temple to the glacier, so we hired a private car (prices are fairly transparent). Crossing the Lancang River, we wound our way up to Mingyong Village, deep in the mountains. The bumpy ride prompted our driver to sigh: "A few years ago, there were so many tourists we couldn’t keep up. Now, hardly anyone comes…" At the glacier site, tickets cost ¥45, and the shuttle (highly recommended) is ¥75. The winding road led us to the shuttle’s endpoint, where only four people began the hike. The trail was destroyed by avalanches, forcing us to trek along a muddy horse path. The sound of glacial meltwater echoed through the forest, and the closer we got to the snow-capped peaks, the more it felt like an adventure. But when we finally stood before the glacier—I was stunned. The ice tongue had turned completely "blackened," with terrifying fissures and only scattered ice chains barely holding it together. This was the tangible reality of climate change. Then, the chanting from Lotus Temple reached us. A solitary monk struck a bell rhythmically, and in that moment, everything felt strangely healing. Some honest takeaways: 1️⃣ It’s so uncrowded it feels like a private tour, but the trail is rough—go with companions. 2️⃣ The horse path is muddy; wear slip-resistant shoes! 3️⃣ Altitude ranges from ~2,800m to 3,400m—watch for altitude sickness. 4️⃣ Trekking poles are optional (I didn’t use them and managed fine). 5️⃣ Almost entirely uphill—not recommended for those with weak knees or mobility issues. 6️⃣ The ascent took us 3 hours (with lots of photo stops); descent was quicker at 1 hour. 7️⃣ Key stops along the trail: Prince Temple and the final destination, Lotus Temple. 8️⃣ The glacier view from Lotus Temple is breathtaking, with the towering Kawagarbo looming overhead—an indescribable sight. If you plan to visit Mingyong Glacier, check the weather first. Clear days are ideal; otherwise, clouds may obscure the peaks, diminishing the views and making the trek harder.

Meili Snow Mountain is located at the border of Dêqên County in Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, and Zayü County in Tibet Autonomous Region, China. It is one of the four sacred mountains of Tibetan Buddhism (alongside Mount Kailash, Amnye Machen, and Gado Jowo) and an important part of the Nu Mountains in the Hengduan Mountain Range. Its main peak, Kawagarbo, stands at 6,740 meters, making it the highest peak in Yunnan. Due to religious and cultural reasons, it remains unclimbed to this day. **Key Highlights:** 1. **Sacred Kawagarbo Mountain** - Meaning "God of Snow Mountain" in Tibetan, it is the foremost of Tibet's eight sacred mountains and a revered spiritual symbol. After a 1991 avalanche claimed the lives of a Sino-Japanese climbing team, the local government banned all climbing in 2001 to respect Tibetan beliefs. 2. **Golden Sunrise Spectacle** - At dawn, sunlight bathes the snow-capped peaks in golden light, especially stunning during clear autumn and winter days (October to May). Feilai Temple and Wunongding Viewing Platform offer the best vantage points. 3. **Mingyong Glacier** - One of the lowest-latitude glaciers in the Northern Hemisphere, stretching from Kawagarbo to forested areas at 2,600 meters. Hike or ride a horse to reach the glacier viewing platform. 4. **Yubeng Village** - A Tibetan village hailed as a "hidden paradise," accessible only by trek or off-road vehicle. Divided into Upper and Lower Yubeng, it’s a haven for hikers and photographers, offering close-up views of the sacred Mianzimu Peak. **Travel Tips:** - **Best Seasons:** October–November (crisp autumn) and March–May (flower season). Winter offers pristine snowscapes but some routes may close. - **Transport:** Take a bus from Shangri-La to Dêqên (~4 hours), then hire a car to Feilai Temple (30 mins). - **Accommodation:** Feilai Temple has many view hotels; Yubeng offers basic guesthouses. - **Notes:** - Respect local customs: Circumambulate the mountain clockwise. - Prevent altitude sickness; avoid strenuous activity. - Protect the environment—no littering. **Cultural Significance:** In the Tibetan epic *King Gesar*, Meili is depicted as the abode of guardian deities. During Tibetan Sheep Year, pilgrims flock here for the *kora* (10–15 days for the outer circuit, 3–5 for the inner), believed to accumulate immense merit. For a deeper experience, combine your trip with nearby sites like Shangri-La and Balagezong Grand Canyon.

📍Meili Snow Mountain, Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture At five o'clock in the morning at the Feilai Temple Observation Deck, the cold wind wrapped in snow particles brushed across my cheeks. The outline of Mount Kawagebo gradually appeared against the inky black sky, until the first ray of golden light pierced through the clouds and the snowy peak instantly burned into blazing gold - the "vertical zonality" in the geography textbook now turned into snow fog and eternal cold. 📸 Exclusive seats ① Sunlight on Jinshan Mountain: Set your phone to professional mode (ISO 100 + shutter speed 1/800s) to freeze the moment when the golden light splits the night sky ② Yubeng Village Prayer Flag Trail: Capture the prayer flags brushing against the light, and use the "Showa" filter to add a sense of storytelling ③ Gravel beach on the glacial lake: A wide-angle lens with trekking poles as the foreground creates an epic composition of "small people and big mountains" 🏔️ Tibetan scenery blind box The Nisi Earthen Pot Chicken at Deqin Inn: Matsutake and Tibetan pork are boiled for three hours, and the soup is as soft as silk The circumambulator said: Walk around the White Pagoda three times counterclockwise, and you can hear the heartbeat of the mountain. ✨ Filter parameters ➀ Snow Mountain Panorama: Fuji Blue +30 | Faded +15 | Grain +5 ➁ Humanistic close-up: Cold white skin filter | Highlight -8 | Vignette +10 "The contour lines in the textbooks turned into numbers jumping on the altitude table, and the description of the monsoon turned into snow mist blowing in the face. It turns out that mountains and rivers should never be reduced to lead type, but let the soles of boots be covered with its mud, and let the pupils be filled with its morning and evening." - This is what Meili taught me #snowscape #skiing #Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture #Meili Snow Mountain

Meili Snow Mountain is located in Deqin County, Diqing Prefecture, Yunnan Province. It is one of the eight sacred mountains in Tibetan areas. The best tourist season is from October to May of the following year, with clear weather and high visibility. 📸 Must-see attractions: Feilai Temple Observation Deck (best viewing spot in Japan 🌅 Zhaojin Mountain ⛰️), Yubeng Village (hiking paradise), Mingyong Bing 🧊 River (low latitude glacier wonder), Fog 🌫️ Rich Top Observation Deck (panoramic shooting place). 🚘Transportation: Take a bus🚌 from Shangri-La Passenger Terminal to Deqin (about 4 hours), then charter a car to various attractions. It is recommended to charter or chuck a car to play more flexible. Driving 🚙 Note that the mountain road is often curved, it may freeze in winter. 🥗Local delicacies: butter tea☕, yak meat hot pot🍲, green barley cake🫓, Tibetan pork🐷, matsutake stewed chicken🐔. It is recommended to taste authentic Tibetan food at Zangjiale near Feilai Temple. ⭐ Precautions: High altitude (3000-4000 meters), pay attention to prevent high altitude sickness; large temperature difference to bring warm clothes; respect local Tibetan customs, do not use fingers God mountain; environmentally friendly travel do not litter. Travel with caution during the rainy season (June-September) as you may encounter landslides.

When the first ray of morning light pierces through the clouds, the top of the snow-capped mountain is dyed a romantic pink, then slowly turns into a blazing gold, as if the gods themselves have gilded the mountains with glory. You stand in the hunting wind, and hear your heart suddenly stop. It turns out that there really is a kind of magnificence in this world that can make people forget to breathe. I've been to so many places, but only Meili Snow Mountain makes me linger. I'm setting off again this May Day to head to Meili Snow Mountain! - 🗓️Meili Snow Mountain 3-Day, 2-Night Guide Day 1: Shangri-La → Feilai Temple Viewing Platform → Jixia Mountain Hotel Day 2: Wunongding Panoramic View → Lonely Tree → Shuoda Village Day 3: Take Photos and Relax on the Hotel Balcony → Shangri-La - 1️⃣Lonely Tree of Wunongding (Trip.com Must-Visit Attraction List) A niche but absolutely beautiful spot! A 5-minute drive away, it offers an unobstructed view of the snow-capped mountains, allowing you to easily take blockbuster-style photos of "heading towards the mountains" 📸. . 2️⃣Feilai Temple Viewing Platform A double-layered viewing platform + white pagoda foreground allows you to photograph the snow-capped mountains up close. Next to it is a small path full of prayer flags, where you can photograph the snow-capped mountains at the end of the road. . 3️⃣Jixia Mountain ‼️Private Spot‼️ Surrounded by snow-capped mountains at 360°, the stars and snow-capped mountains are framed together at sunset. Make a cup of ginger tea and wait for the Milky Way to rise. The romantic value is full ✨ (the rooms and rooftop bar are also excellent locations for taking photos). . 4️⃣Shuoda Village The only place where you can photograph a panoramic view and reflection of the Thirteen Peaks of Meili. The road conditions are not good, so it is recommended that experienced drivers travel together! - 🏨Accommodation 📍Jixia Mountain · Meili Suntaya Hotel—Trip.com Reputation List 2025 China's Top 50 Boutique Homestays ——This is not a hotel, but a "temple dedicated to the snow-capped mountains." Located on Wunongding at an altitude of 3,600m, facing Kawa Karpo Peak, the head of the eight sacred mountains in Tibet, it uses architecture, light and shadow, and faith to reconstruct a pilgrimage journey for contemporary people. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains at 360°, the rooftop bar and rooms face the Thirteen Peaks of Meili. Without having to travel, you can witness the epic scene of "Golden Sunlight on the Snow Mountain" while lying in bed. The moment when the pink-purple morning glow and the golden snow peaks are in the same frame will heal your soul! - How to book cheaper: Open the Trip.com App and search 🔍【874018】 Get exclusive limited coupons for fans and save up to 1,000 on Reputation List hotels 🥳 If you are a P-type person who is too lazy to make a guide or doesn't know how to choose a hotel, you can choose directly from the Reputation List. The listing rate of this list is only 1%, that is, only 1 out of 100 hotels can be listed, so the listed hotels are very reliable and not prone to stepping on thunder. - ⭐Travel tips: ✔️Best season: October–May of the following year (many sunny days, easy to encounter golden sunlight on the snow mountain) ✔️Transportation: It is recommended to charter a car/drive yourself. Some mountain roads are steep and require caution. ✔️Altitude sickness: Altitude 3,600m+, try not to do strenuous exercise! -

Best Time to Visit • October to May: Weather is relatively clear, perfect for viewing the golden sunrise on Meili Snow Mountain. December to February offers the most spectacular panoramic views despite cold weather. • Avoid Rainy Season: June to September is the rainy season with changeable weather and frequent clouds that may affect visibility. Transportation Guide • By Air: Fly to Diqing Shangri-La Airport, then take a car to Meili Snow Mountain. • By Train: Take a train to Lijiang or Dali, then transfer to a car. • By Bus: Buses are available from Shangri-La, Lijiang, or Dali. Charter or shared cars are also options. • Self-driving: If you have time and driving experience, self-driving offers flexibility and scenic views along the way. Pay attention to road and weather conditions. Recommended Attractions • Feilai Temple: A 400-year-old temple featuring three religions in harmony. Built on the mountainside with multi-level architecture that blends with surrounding rocks and trees. Offers both architectural art and panoramic views of Meili Snow Mountain. • Mingyong Glacier: Yunnan's largest, longest, and lowest-altitude valley glacier, extending from 6,470m to 2,600m. Features spectacular ice layers, deep crevasses, and mesmerizing glacier lakes. • Yubeng Village: A picturesque Tibetan village and hiking paradise where you can experience local Tibetan culture and natural scenery. • Wunong Peak Viewing Platform: Closer to the snow mountain, offering stunning views of the golden sunrise and all thirteen peaks of Meili Snow Mountain. Accommodation Recommendations • Feilai Temple Area: Multiple hotels and guesthouses available, convenient for viewing the golden sunrise. Many hotels offer good viewing spots on their rooftops. • Deqin County Town: An alternative to Feilai Temple, with free shuttle buses to Feilai Temple. Itinerary Suggestions • 2-Day Tour: • Day 1: Shangri-La - Songzanlin Monastery - Benzilan - Baima Snow Mountain - Feilai Temple. • Day 2: Feilai Temple - Golden Sunrise - Welcome Thirteen Pagodas - Benzilan - Yila Prairie - Shangri-La. • 4-Day Tour: • Day 1: Depart from Lijiang - Tiger Leaping Gorge - Yi Village - Xiaozhongdian Prairie - Dukezong Ancient Town. • Day 2: Dukezong Ancient Town - Songzanlin Monastery - Benzilan - Baima Snow Mountain - Feilai Temple. • Day 3: Feilai Temple - Golden Sunrise - Welcome Thirteen Pagodas - Benzilan - Yila Prairie - Shangri-La. • Day 4: Pudacuo - Return to Lijiang. • 6-Day Yubeng Village Hiking Tour: • Day 1: Lijiang or Shangri-La - Feilai Temple. • Day 2: Meili Snow Mountain Sunrise - Xidan - Nanzhong Pass - Upper Yubeng. • Day 3: Upper Yubeng Village - Alpine Pass - Xiaonong Base Camp - Ice Lake - Lower Yubeng Village. • Day 4: Lower Yubeng Village - Primitive Forest - Rest Camp - Sacred Waterfall - Lower Yubeng Village. • Day 5: Lower Yubeng Village - Ninong Grand Canyon - Ninong Parking Lot - Deqin County - Baima Snow Mountain - Shangri-La. • Day 6: Shangri-La - Dukezong Ancient Town - Songzanlin Monastery - Xiaozhongdian Prairie - Lijiang Ancient Town. Important Notes • Altitude Sickness: After entering Tibetan areas, maintain a positive attitude, avoid strenuous exercise and shouting, eat fruits and vegetables, drink plenty of water, and stay warm. • Sun Protection and Warmth: High-altitude areas have strong UV rays. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats. Pack warm clothes for significant temperature differences between morning and evening. • Respect Local Culture: Meili Snow Mountain is one of the four sacred mountains in Tibetan culture. Follow local customs, respect Tibetan culture, avoid pointing at sacred mountains, and don't damage or step on prayer flags. Hope this guide helps you better plan your trip to Meili Snow Mountain!

At the foot of the snow mountain, I witnessed the most beautiful sunrise and understood why so many people travel from afar to Meili. This guide aims to help you achieve this snowy mountain rendezvous! 🏔 Attraction Introduction Meili Snow Mountain is located in Deqin County, Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province. It is one of the four sacred mountains in Tibetan Buddhism. The main peak, Kawagebo, stands at an altitude of 6,740 meters and remains an unclimbed 'virgin peak.' The most spectacular sight is the 'Sunshine on the Golden Mountain,' where the first rays of sunlight turn the entire mountain golden, resembling a sacred temple. 🚗 Transportation Guide You can first reach Shangri-La and then carpool or hire a private car to Feilai Temple. Carpooling is relatively affordable, costing around 150-200 RMB per person, but the itinerary is more fixed. Hiring a private car offers more freedom, allowing you to stop and enjoy the scenery along the way, with costs around 600-800 RMB per day. 🏠 Accommodation Recommendations There are many guesthouses near Feilai Temple with views of the snow mountain right from your window. Prices range from 200-500 RMB during the off-season and may double during peak season, so it's advisable to book in advance. 🍜 Food Recommendations Don't miss the Tibetan butter tea, which warms you up and helps alleviate altitude sickness. Also, try the yak meat hotpot, known for its tender meat and rich broth. 📷 Photography Tips To capture the stunning 'Sunshine on the Golden Mountain,' a telephoto lens is essential. You can choose to shoot from the Feilai Temple viewing platform, with the snow mountain as the background and the person in the foreground to create depth. Morning light is soft, so make good use of side lighting to add dimension to your photos. ❗ Notes Check the weather forecast in advance and choose a sunny day to increase your chances of seeing the 'Sunshine on the Golden Mountain.' Keep warm in high-altitude areas and avoid strenuous activities to prevent altitude sickness. Respect local religious beliefs and customs. The charm of the snow mountain can only be truly appreciated in person. May you have an unforgettable trip to Meili Snow Mountain!

Deqin County is the highest-altitude county in northwestern Yunnan, with an average elevation of over 4,200 meters. The county seat is located in Shengping Town, in a valley about 3,400 meters above sea level. Benzilan Town, also in Deqin County, has an elevation of around 2,000 meters. As National Highway G214 passes through the town, its geographical and economic conditions seem to be somewhat better than those of Deqin's county seat. After having lunch at a Dali restaurant in Benzilan Town, a visit to Dongzhulin Monastery is a must-do activity. Further north, about 10 kilometers from the county seat, lies the more famous Feilai Temple in Deqin, at an altitude of over 3,000 meters. Administratively, it should be a villager group under the jurisdiction of Shengping Town, Deqin. Feilai Temple is named after a centuries-old temple. Its location directly faces the Meili Snow Mountain, making it a popular stopover for admiring the mountain and a starting point for trips to the Mingyong Glacier. After years of development, Feilai Temple now offers a variety of accommodations, from budget-friendly to high-end, as well as numerous dining options. In recent years, a cycling path has been built along the highway, greatly improving tourism conditions. It has become a stopover on the Yunnan-Tibet Highway before entering Tibet, offering both scenic views and comfortable resting facilities. The gas station by the highway is the last one where electronic gas cards can be used (with discounts available for Yunnan Province). The distance from Shangri-La to Feilai Temple in Deqin is nearly 190 kilometers. Although the road is winding, the road surface is in good condition. There is a rest area directly facing the Baima Snow Mountain, which is a great place to enjoy the scenery during the trip. While Feilai Temple is a great place to view Meili Snow Mountain, it's not every day that you get to see the true face of Kawagebo Peak or the sunrise and the golden mountain spectacle before and after dawn. Having witnessed the magical scenery of the thirteen peaks of Meili on several past visits, this time, the stopover at Feilai Temple simply served as the last stop in Yunnan on the journey from the Yunnan-Tibet Highway to the Sichuan-Tibet Highway. A basic requirement for check-in at Feilai Temple is an unobstructed view of Meili Snow Mountain from the room or rooftop. In the afternoon, Meili Snow Mountain is usually shrouded in clouds and mist, but after nightfall, the clouds often disperse, revealing Kawagebo Peak under the starry sky. However, the temperature drops significantly after dark, and you'll quickly start shivering while taking photos. As the destination for the next day was Mangkang in Tibet, I hurried back to my room to rest after a quick photo session.

Meri Fan Su Xuejing Hotel, a dream hotel facing the snow-capped mountains! 1️⃣ Great location The beauty of the golden sunrise over the mountains is something you have to see to believe. Meri Fan Su is located in Wunongding Village at an altitude of 3,600 meters. It is close to Wunongding Viewing Platform, with Baima Snow Mountain behind it, Biluo Snow Mountain in the distance, and Meili Snow Mountain right in front of it. 2️⃣ Unique room design Most of the 32 rooms face Meili Snow Mountain. Rooms on the fourth floor are at least 50 square meters, with plenty of space to move around. The snow view rooms not only have a viewing balcony, but also an indoor bathtub, so you can enjoy a bath while looking at the snow-capped mountains. 3️⃣ Diverse dining options The restaurant is also designed to face the snow-capped mountains, and dinner is best enjoyed at sunset. There are many breakfast options, as well as lunch and dinner, which is great for night owls. The main meals are made with local seasonal ingredients, such as yak meat, Tibetan pork, and matsutake mushrooms, as well as drinks like butter tea and barley wine. 4️⃣ Warm reminder: October to March is the best time to see the golden sunrise over the mountains. On your first day on the plateau, try not to take a bath or exercise vigorously, and keep warm. If you are driving in winter, remember to bring snow chains. 📍 Location: Wunongding Village, Diqing County, Shangri-La 🏠 Hotel: Fan Su Xuejing Hotel

Wunongding is a magical camera position It is really good for taking photos📷 Navigation "Lonely Tree in Wunongding" Cars🚗 are also OK. It is only a few dozen meters of dirt road 📷Photography strategy: Check the sunrise time the day before and arrive at the camera position half an hour in advance It is recommended to wear more in the morning when the temperature is low After the sunrise, you can also take photos of the white snow mountain in the morning Camera focal length: 28-200mm You can use telephoto and compression to bring the characters and snow mountain closer ⚠️It will be backlit in the afternoon, so it is not recommended to go Tips: Photography props can prepare bright-colored clothing, off-road vehicles🚙, flowers💐, etc.

Meili Snow Mountain is one of the must-see views in a lifetime. I finally made up my mind to go, and it was really different!! Not only was it a rare surprise, but it also inspired me from the bottom of my heart. You can only see it from November to March every year. I heard that the weather had been bad for the past few days, and we were not sure if we could see it. · I remember we got up at 2 am to put on makeup and get ready, and we left at 3 am. Remember to book a car in advance. We paid 150💰/person. The car was a round trip, and we could stop and take pictures at any time. We arrived at around 6:30 am. I felt my heart was purified when I saw it!! · Tips: The temperature difference between day and night is huge in Meili Snow Mountain, so you must wear a three-in-one jacket or down jacket, and a hat/gloves are a must. It was so cold that I could hardly press the shutter button in the morning. It is easy to get altitude sickness in high-altitude areas, so bring some chocolate, high-sugar fruits, orange juice, cola, and other sweets to relieve altitude sickness if necessary. It is recommended not to take a shower, hahaha. And you must wear a hat, or you will get a headache.