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Located in Guide County, Hainan Prefecture, Qinghai Province, Laji Mountain is a branch of the Sun and Moon Mountains. Known in Tibetan as "Gongmaola," it means "place where the Galaji (stone partridge) lives." Laji Mountain forms the boundary between Guide and Huangzhong, winding from west to east. Its highest peak is 4,524 meters above sea level. The Laji Mountain Pass, at 3,820 meters, is strategically located, traversed by the Ningguo Highway. South of the pass, there's also a road to Huangyuan. The northern slopes of Laji Mountain are steep, with many exposed rocks. Except in summer, they are often covered in snow. The southern slopes are gentler, ideal for pasture growth. Laji Mountain is a branch of the Sun and Moon Mountains. Known in Tibetan as "Gongmaola," it means "place where the Galaji (stone partridge) lives."
Guide, located deep inland, has a plateau continental climate with long sunshine hours and strong solar radiation. Spring is dry and windy, summer is short and cool, autumn is damp and rainy, and winter is long and dry, with large daily temperature fluctuations.
The Laji Mountains have formed many mountain passes due to the cutting of the river system. Qingsha Pass, Laji Pass, and Riyue Pass are all important transportation routes in and out of Xining.
The Laji Mountains generally run from northwest to southeast. The eastern section, which runs nearly east-west, constitutes the main body of the Laji Mountains. The western section, running nearly northwest to southeast, is called the Sun and Moon Mountains. Sun and Moon Mountains, also known as Nalasala and formerly known as Chiling, lie between the Sun and Moon Pass and the Ganzi River estuary. It is 90 kilometers long and 10-20 kilometers wide. Most peaks are around 4,000 meters above sea level, with the highest peak, Aledawan Mountain, at 4,455 meters.
Since ancient times, Riyue Mountain has been an important transportation route between the east and west of Qinghai Province, and the highway and railway from Xining to Golmud pass through it.
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Laji Mountain is part of the Qilian Mountain range in Qinghai, known for its ecological significance and biodiversity. It serves as an important watershed and is culturally significant to local Tibetan and Mongolian communities.
Laji Mountain is located in Qinghai Province, accessible by car or taxi from nearby towns. Public transport is limited, so private vehicles or organized tours are recommended. Walking or hiking is required to explore trails on the mountain itself.
The mountain is open year-round, but the best time to visit is from May to September when the weather is mild, and trails are accessible. Early mornings provide the best light for photography.
Entrance fees vary depending on the specific trail or scenic area. Tickets can usually be purchased onsite at the entrance or through local tourism websites.
Booking in advance is recommended during peak tourist season (summer months). A few days to a week ahead is usually sufficient.
Exploring the main trails and viewpoints typically requires 3–6 hours. Longer hikes or camping trips may take a full day or overnight.
Local guides are available in Chinese. English-speaking guides are limited and should be arranged in advance through tour operators.
Night visits are generally not recommended due to safety concerns. Special guided hikes may be available on request but are rare.
The mountain is generally quiet, with more visitors during summer weekends. Weekdays offer the least crowded experience.
Basic facilities include rest stops, public toilets at key trailheads, and small local food stalls. Carry sufficient water and snacks for longer hikes.
Some trails are steep and high-altitude, making them challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Shorter, easier paths may be suitable for children and casual visitors.
Cash is often required for small entrances and local services. Mobile payments are increasingly accepted in nearby towns.
Nearby towns have local restaurants serving Qinghai specialties. Mountain-side stalls may offer simple refreshments.
Vegetarian options are available in local eateries. Halal options exist in towns with Muslim communities, but planning ahead is recommended.
Guesthouses and small hotels in nearby towns provide accommodations. Some eco-lodges and camping sites are available near trailheads.
Souvenirs include local handicrafts, wool products, prayer flags, and Tibetan-themed items.
Return to nearby towns via taxi or private car. Local bus services are limited, so pre-arranged transportation is recommended for continuing the journey.
