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Nanshan, formerly known as Snow Mountain and locally as Zhaobei Mountain, is the highest peak in Ledu County, stretching from west to east across the southern border. According to the "Geographical Records of Xining Prefecture New Records," "Nanshan's snow remains unmelted, towering above the thousands of other peaks like a silver screen. It is also known as the Snow Mountain, commonly known as the Nanshan Snow, and is one of the Eight Scenic Spots." Climbing to its summit offers a sense of heaven, with misty blue clouds overhead and glittering ice beneath. The climate at the summit of Nanshan is highly variable.
Visiting Nanshan in the summer to admire the "Nanshan Snow" is truly a unique sight. A mountain range is split into two sections, each representing two different worlds: below the snow line, a vast expanse of emerald green; above the snow, a blanket of white.
semi-arid climate of the continental plateau;
Best in summer and winter
It is recommended to play for about 2 hours
free
All day
Ledu Nanshan is a mountainous area in Qinghai known for its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and recreational value. It serves as a local retreat for nature lovers and a site for cultural tourism.
Located in Ledu District, Qinghai Province. Visitors can reach it by taxi or private car from Ledu town. Local buses are available, and walking is suitable for exploring specific trails.
Open daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best visiting season is from April to October when weather conditions are favorable for outdoor activities.
A small entrance fee may apply, depending on the trail or scenic zone. Tickets are usually purchased offline at the entrance; online booking is occasionally available through local tourism websites.
Booking in advance is not generally required except during holidays or peak weekends, in which case 1–2 weeks ahead is recommended.
2–3 hours to enjoy main trails and viewpoints; a full day for extensive hiking or cultural exploration.
Guided tours are mainly in Chinese. Audio guides or tours in other languages are generally not available; hiring a local guide is recommended for international visitors.
Start at the main entrance, hike through scenic trails, visit temples or cultural spots, take breaks at viewpoints, and finish with sunset photography or picnic areas.
Night visits and light shows are generally not available. Special tours may be arranged locally upon request.
Weekdays are less crowded than weekends. Early mornings provide the quietest experience.
Basic facilities include public toilets, picnic areas, and limited food stalls. Shops are mostly near the entrance or main trails.
Main entrance areas are suitable for children and elderly. Some trails are steep or uneven, limiting accessibility for wheelchair users.
Cash is recommended for small purchases; mobile payments are accepted at larger facilities.
Local restaurants and small cafes are near the base of the mountain and trailheads, offering traditional Qinghai cuisine.
Vegetarian options are generally available. Halal options may be limited and should be confirmed locally.
Guesthouses and small hotels are available in Ledu District. Booking ahead is recommended during peak travel seasons.
Souvenir shops offer local handicrafts, traditional textiles, and small cultural artifacts.
Taxis or private cars are recommended for onward travel. Public transportation is limited in mountainous areas.
