Meili Snow Mountain: Ultimate confrontation with the "God of Snow Mountain" Kawagebo

The Name of the Sacred Mountain - "Medicine King" and "God of Snow Mountain"
"Meili" means "Medicine King" in Tibetan, so Xizang also calls it "Medicine King Mountain". Its main peak "Kavagebo" means "steep white snow peak in the canyon" in Tibetan. In Tibetan legend, Kavagebo was originally a powerful and violent demon god, who was later subdued by Master Lianhuasheng, ordained as a layman, converted to Buddhism, and became the guardian deity of the region, commanding the land and mountains. From then on, this towering snow mountain was revered as "Rongzan Kavagebo" and became the highest faith and spiritual sustenance in the hearts of Tibetan people, receiving worship and worship from generations to generations.

 Forbidden Peak - A Tragic Chapter in the History of Human Mountaineering
The most well-known story of Meili Snow Mountain in modern times is a profound epic about the reverence for nature: since 1902, mountaineering teams from Britain, the United States, Japan, China, and other countries have attempted to climb Kawagebo multiple times, but all have failed. In 1991, a Sino Japanese joint mountaineering team encountered a massive avalanche at a campsite just a few hundred meters from the summit, resulting in the death of all 17 members and becoming the second largest mountaineering disaster in world history. Afterwards, the climb organized again in 1996 was also unsuccessful. Out of respect for the religious beliefs of Tibetan compatriots and consideration for the risks of mountaineering activities, the Chinese government officially legislated in 2001 to prohibit any group or individual from climbing Mount Kavagbo. This sacred mountain returns to eternal tranquility, defending the dignity of nature and cultural taboos in the most resolute way possible.

In depth understanding: Explore more stunning natural and cultural holy sites in China>>Potala Palace

 Natural Creation - The Breath and Light of Kavagbo
The natural landscape of Meili Snow Mountain is a symphony of light, snow, glaciers, and canyons.
Rizhao Jinshan: a miracle that must be seen in a lifetime
The so-called 'Sunshine Golden Mountain' refers to the first ray of light projected by the rising sun over the horizon on a clear autumn and winter morning, shining onto the top of Mount Kawagebo at an altitude of 6740 meters. The pure white snow peak was instantly dyed pure gold and gradually spread downwards, like a burning 'golden palace'. This process often lasts only about 20 minutes, and after the light fades, the snow capped mountains return to their sacred white color. Its shock and dreamlike quality are hailed as a "once-in-a-lifetime" wonder. The best viewing points are the Feilai Temple Observation Deck and the Wunong Top Observation Deck. Feilai Temple is closer, with a highly impactful view; The terrain of Wunong Peak is higher, offering a panoramic view of the Thirteen Peaks of Meili. The villages and white pagodas in the foreground make the composition more layered. Photography tip: Please arrive at least half an hour before sunrise and set up your tripod. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the panoramic view of the snow capped mountains, or use a telephoto lens to capture the details of the main peak. Autumn and winter (October to May of the following year) are the periods with the highest success rate for viewing.
Glaciers and canyons: witnesses to the rhythm of the earth's movement
The Mingyong Glacier extends from the bottom of Mount Kawagebo to a forested area at an altitude of only about 2700 meters, and is a rare low latitude, low altitude tropical monsoon oceanic modern glacier in the world. Tourists can hike along the boardwalk or ride horses up, observe up close the blue glowing ice tongues and huge ice cracks, listen to the roar of the cracks coming from deep glaciers, and feel the breathing of the earth for billions of years. On the way to Meili, the Jinsha River Dawan (Moon Bay) is another masterpiece. The Jinsha River has drawn a nearly 360 degree "Ω" - shaped bend in the deep valley of the Hengduan Mountains, with a height difference of 2000-3000 meters, creating a magnificent scene.
Rain Crash Secret Realm: A Hiker's Paradise
Yubeng Village is deeply hidden in the hinterland of Meili Snow Mountain, and is only connected to the outside world through hiking or off-road vehicles. It is divided into Shangyubeng and Yunyubeng. Surrounded by snow capped mountains, primitive forests, meadows, and prayer flags, this is a secluded village in the embrace of the "God of Snow Mountain". Starting from Yubeng Village, you can hike to Shenpu (a must visit place for Tibetans to receive holy water baptism), Binghu (a green sea where glacier meltwater gathers), and Shenhu (the most difficult). Every step is a pilgrimage, and every glance is a fairyland.

Humanistic craftsmanship - fluttering prayer flags and eternal pilgrimage
All activities and culture here revolve around the worship of the sacred mountain.
Feilai Temple is not only a physical observation deck for viewing Rizhao Jinshan, but also a real temple with a history of nearly 400 years. There is a mountain statue of Kavagbo enshrined in the temple, with exquisite murals. The monument outside the temple commemorating the brave warriors of the 1991 mountain disaster quietly reflects on the relationship between humanity and nature. Tibetan people believe that circumnavigating the sacred mountain and reciting scriptures can cleanse a lifetime of sins. During the Tibetan Year of the Sheep (Kawagebo's zodiac year), there is an endless stream of people turning mountains. The "inward turning" route takes about 3-5 days, with the Rain Collapse God Waterfall as the core; To 'go outside', one needs to circumnavigate the entire Meili Snow Mountain and hike for about 10-15 days, which is an extremely arduous and spiritually charged journey of faith. Around mountain passes, mountain passes, and temples, colorful prayer flags flutter in the wind, each swing symbolizing a recitation of scriptures. The piled Mani stones are the simplest prayers of believers. Please make sure to circle the Mani pile clockwise and do not step on or move the prayer flags or Mani stones.

Photography tips:
Taking photos of Rizhao Jinshan and Foggy Bottom is suitable for capturing panoramic and humanistic films, while Feilai Temple is suitable for capturing stunning close-up shots of the snow capped mountains themselves.
In the early morning of Yubeng Village, the morning mist, cooking smoke, and sunlight create a dreamlike light and shadow, making it an excellent location for capturing the combination of culture and nature.
Respect faith, please obtain the consent of pilgrims or monks before taking photos.

 Four essential tasks to unlock a complete journey to the holy realm
1. Waiting for a golden mountain of sunshine
The best time to arrive at the observation deck is half an hour before sunrise, and the sunrise time in autumn and winter is around 7:30-8:00. Recommended locations are Feilai Temple (classic and convenient) or Wunong Top (with a wide view and relatively few people). Patience is required, and it may take several consecutive days to encounter the most perfect moment. Seeing is fate.
2. Complete a rain avalanche hike
The entry-level option is to hike or take an off-road vehicle from Xidang Hot Springs to enter Yubeng Village (about 6-8 hours of hiking), and after adaptation, hike to Shenpu (about 4-5 hours round-trip). The route is relatively mature. The advanced challenge is to hike to the Ice Lake (about 7-8 hours round trip), crossing through primitive forests and high mountain pastures, and ending at the Emerald Lake under the snow capped mountains. The top-level experience is to participate in the Meili Snow Mountain Inner Tour and complete a complete cultural and spiritual journey.
3. Experience the breath of a glacier once
The core destination is Mingyong Glacier. Walk along the boardwalk to the observation deck, facing the majesty of the glacier and experiencing the urgent reality of glacier retreat under the background of global warming. The alternative option is hiking on the ice lake where the rain falls, and you can also observe glacier landforms up close.
4. Experience a Tibetan culture class
You can stay in a hotel facing the snow capped mountains (such as Shanxia Meili and Songzan Meili Mountain Residence) and observe the changes of the snow capped mountains day and night in your room. Taste authentic Tibetan cuisine such as yak meat hotpot, butter tea, and matsutake stewed chicken to replenish energy and experience the local culture. We should also learn simple Tibetan etiquette, such as accepting the posture of Hada, and gain a deeper understanding of the cultural core of mountain worship.

 Tourist Route Suggestions
Three day "First Encounter with the Sacred Mountain" Classic Tour (Suitable for Most Tourists):
Day 1: Depart from Shangri La before noon → enjoy the view of the Jinsha River Grand Bay along the way → arrive at Wunong Peak in the afternoon to take a panoramic view of the Thirteen Peaks → check into Feilai Temple Hotel to adapt to the altitude.
Day 2: In the early morning, wait at the hotel or observation deck for Rizhao Jinshan. After breakfast, head to Xidang Village and take an off-road vehicle to Yubang Village (to save energy). Check into Yubang Homestay and easily hike to the starting point of Shenpu in the afternoon to adapt.
Day 3: Experience the peaceful morning scenery of the collapsing rain in the morning → Hike to Ice Lake or Divine Waterfall (choose one) → In the afternoon, when the rain falls, return to Feilai Temple or go to Deqin County for accommodation.
IntoTravelChina tip: This itinerary involves high-altitude hiking, and it is recommended to choose travel services that provide professional guides and emergency support.
Four day "Deep Pilgrimage" Immersive Tour (Suitable for Hiking and Cultural Enthusiasts):
Day 1: Shangri La → Nixi Township (experience black clay pottery) → Benzilan Town (a key town on the Tea Horse Ancient Road) → Visit Dongzhulin Temple → Check into Feilai Temple.
Day 2: Rizhao Jinshan → Hike on the Mingyong Glacier throughout the day, delve deep into the glacier → Return to Feilai Temple in the evening.
Day 3: Rizhao Jinshan → Enter Yubeng Village → In the afternoon, hike to Shenpu and receive the baptism of holy water.
Day 4: Rain Crash Village → Ice Lake Hiking → Evening Rain Crash, Stay in Deqin. Or add an extra day for hiking in the Ninon Canyon to experience different scenery.

Advantages of IntoTravelChina: We can book hotels with the best views for you, arrange local drivers and guides familiar with the road conditions, plan reasonable altitude adaptation rhythms, and provide detailed hiking supplies and safety guidelines.

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How to reach: The Road to the Sacred Mountain
Meili Snow Mountain has no direct railway or airport access, and is usually located in Shangri La or Lijiang as distribution centers. From Shangri La (the most commonly used), you can choose a shuttle bus: take a bus from Shangri La Bus Station to Deqin County (about 4 hours), and then take a taxi to Feilai Temple (about 20 minutes); Alternatively, you can choose the most flexible and convenient charter/carpool service, which can directly deliver you to the entrance of Feilai Temple Hotel. Along the way, you can stop at scenic spots such as Jinsha River and Dawan at any time. From Lijiang, you can charter a car or take a bus to Shangri La (about 3-4 hours), and then follow the above method to get there. The journey is relatively long, but it can connect with attractions such as Tiger Leaping Gorge. Driving north along the G214 Yunnan Tibet Highway from Shangri La, the road conditions are good but there are many bends and steep slopes, so caution should be exercised when driving. Some sections of the road may freeze in winter, so it is recommended to prepare anti-skid chains.

 Best Travel Time
Meili Snow Mountain has its beauty in all seasons, but autumn and winter are the golden seasons with the highest probability of witnessing the "Sunshine Golden Mountain". The golden season of autumn and winter (October to May of the following year) is the dry season, with clear and stable weather and high air transparency, making it the best time to appreciate and capture the sunshine of Jinshan. The snow scenery in winter is particularly magnificent. During the summer rainy season (June September), clouds and mist surround the snow capped mountains, which often hide behind the clouds. It takes luck to see the whole picture. But at this moment, the greenery is lush, the rain is abundant, the waterfalls are spectacular, and there is a chance to see the fairyland of the sea of clouds.

 High altitude sickness response and equipment list
Adaptation to the plateau is crucial: the itinerary should not be too tight, and it is recommended to stay at Shangri La (3300 meters above sea level) or Feilai Temple (3400 meters above sea level) for the first night to adapt. Avoid vigorous exercise, alcohol consumption, ensure sleep, and drink plenty of hot water. You can take Rhodiola rosea one week in advance and prepare glucose and oxygen bottles to cope with discomfort.
Essential equipment needs to be carefully prepared: it is recommended to wear "onion style" clothing. Regardless of the season, it is necessary to prepare windproof and waterproof jackets, fleece or thin down liners, and warm hats, as the temperature difference between day and night is extremely large. In terms of shoes, a pair of waterproof and anti slip high top hiking shoes is an absolute necessity for rain avalanche and glacier hiking. Protective articles include high power sunscreen, sunglasses and lipstick, which are essential. Ultraviolet rays at high altitude are extremely strong. In addition, hiking poles (to save energy), thermos cups, power banks, and personal medications are also crucial.

IntoTravelChina travel protection suggestions:
We strongly recommend that first-time visitors to the plateau choose a itinerary that includes professional logistics services. By booking with us, not only can we arrange a ladder style altitude adapted route, ensuring that drivers and guides have experience in high-altitude driving and first aid, but we can also prepare emergency oxygen and medicine for you, making your journey to the sacred mountain both awe inspiring and safe. >>Click to contact IntoTravelChina travel consultant

Classic 4-day trip to Lijiang Snow Mountain: the Old Town of Lijiang → Yulong Snow Mountain (Glacier Park, Blue Moon Valley, Impression Lijiang) → Baisha Ancient Town and Shuhe Ancient Town → Lashihai. This is a classic introductory journey from holy snow capped mountains to soft times.

Classic 7-day panoramic tour of Yunnan: Kunming (Stone Forest, Old Street) → Dali (Xizhou Ancient Town, Erhai Lake, Three Towers, Cangshan Mountain) → Lijiang (Ancient City, Yulong Snow Mountain, Blue Moon Valley) → Shangri La (Songzanlin Temple, Pudacuo National Park). This is a complete cultural and natural painting that runs through the golden tourism route of Yunnan, from karst wonders to wind, flowers, snow, and moon, from snow capped mountains and holy lakes to Tibetan secret places. >>View the 7-day Yunnan panoramic tour route

The story of Meili Snow Mountain is about the majesty of nature, the power of faith, and the awe of humanity. IntoTravelChina is dedicated to creating a deep, personalized, and worry free travel experience in China. Our travel experts can assist you with:
Tailored itinerary: Design a perfect pilgrimage and hiking route that includes Meili Snow Mountain and surrounding attractions based on your physical strength, interests, and time.
One stop service: handling transportation connections, sightseeing accommodations, hiking guides, tickets, and tickets for the Yubeng Village off-road vehicle.
Exclusive experience and guarantee: arrange the best viewing room, professional mountain guide, hiking equipment advice, and high-altitude emergency support.
Make your trip to Meili Snow Mountain not just sightseeing, but also a spiritual baptism that delves into nature and the depths of the soul.

Start planning your journey now
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