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Visit the snow-capped peaks and enjoy hiking, photography, and nature exploration. You can also experience the local culture by interacting with indigenous communities and learning about their way of life. The mountain provides breathtaking views and is perfect for outdoor activities like trekking and bird watching.
The Yongde Snow Mountain Scenic Area is located in the northeastern part of Yongde County, Lincang City, on the west bank of the Lancang River, 19 kilometers from the county seat. A national nature reserve, it encompasses a relatively enclosed, low-latitude, high-altitude virgin forest area. The scenic area boasts diverse and rugged terrain, deep forests, swift streams, steep cliffs, and numerous caves. The area also boasts a diverse and complex vegetation landscape, rich flora and fauna, and striking vertical natural landscapes. It is an ideal destination for nature and adventure tourism.
The Yongde Snow Mountain system is a branch of the Biluo Snow Mountain, a tributary of the Nujiang River. The mountain range runs northwest to southeast, stretching 24 kilometers from north to south and 15.6 kilometers from east to west, covering a total area of approximately 300 square kilometers. The main peak of the Yongde Snow Mountain is Daxue Mountain, at an elevation of 3,429 meters. To the northwest lies Xiaoxue Mountain, at 3,177 meters. To the south lies Honghua Mountain, at 2,723 meters. To the east lies Gugu Mountain, at 2,843 meters. The easternmost point is Dachao Mountain, which belongs to Yun County and has an elevation of 1,813 meters.
The subtropical low-latitude mountain monsoon climate has a small temperature difference between the four seasons, distinct dry and wet seasons, and significant vertical changes. There is no severe cold in winter and no scorching heat in summer. It is suitable for travel in all seasons.
Yongde Snow Mountain Scenic Area's main attractions and landscapes include the Xueshan River, Laojun Temple, Black Peak Mountain, Immortal Cave, Huangcaoba, the main peak stone, azalea forest, Gudun Mountain, Bee Village, waterfalls, and dangerous rocks. The area boasts a vast sea of forests and diverse biodiversity, with vibrant azalea blossoms, ever-changing waterfalls and mist, a myriad of earthen forests, unique forests of solitary trees, Wa village charm, Sleeping Buddha rock paintings, tree-encased pen towers, the most prestigious hot springs and caves in western Yunnan, and tropical scenery of banana and sugarcane plantations. The area boasts rich and ancient ethnic customs, creating a unique and beautiful landscape.
It is recommended to play for about 5 hours.
15 yuan/person
08:00-18:00
Yongde Snow Mountain is a majestic peak located in the Yunnan province of China, part of the Hengduan Mountains. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and cultural significance to local ethnic groups. It is a popular destination for mountaineers and nature lovers.
The Yongde Snow Mountain is located in Lincang, Yunnan province, China. It can be reached by car or taxi from Lincang city. Public transport options like buses may be available, but taxis or private cars are the most convenient option for visiting the mountain.
The mountain is open year-round, but the best time to visit is from May to October, when the weather is milder and the mountain trails are accessible. The weather can be cold and harsh in winter, so it is not ideal for outdoor activities.
The entrance fee varies depending on the area of the mountain you wish to visit. Tickets can typically be purchased at the entrance, though some areas may offer online ticketing in advance. It’s recommended to check with local tour agencies for booking information.
It’s advisable to book tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability. Booking a few days in advance should be sufficient.
A visit to the mountain can take anywhere from half a day to a full day, depending on the activities you plan to do. Hiking to the summit can take several hours, so plan accordingly.
The must-see highlights include the breathtaking views from the summit, the diverse flora and fauna along the hiking trails, and the scenic landscapes of valleys and alpine meadows.
Guided tours are available, typically in Mandarin, though some English-speaking guides may be available depending on demand. It's advisable to check with local tour operators for language availability.
The best viewpoints are at the summit, where you can capture panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks and surrounding valleys. The alpine meadows and crystal-clear lakes also offer excellent photography opportunities.
Start with the lower trails to explore the lush forests and meadows. Gradually ascend to higher altitudes for better views. If you're experienced, consider reaching the summit for a complete mountain experience.
There are no night visits or light shows. The area is best explored during the day, as it offers the best views and hiking conditions. However, star-gazing at night is a unique experience due to the clear skies.
The mountain can be crowded during the peak tourist seasons (May to October) and public holidays. The least crowded times are typically during the weekdays and off-season months (November to March).
The mountain has basic facilities, including rest areas, toilets, and small food stalls near popular starting points. It's recommended to bring your own water and snacks for the hike, as the mountain trails are more remote.
While the lower parts of the mountain are accessible to most visitors, the trails leading to the summit may be challenging for elderly, children, or disabled individuals. It’s important to check the difficulty of the trails before embarking on a hike.
Cash is generally accepted, but mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used. Credit cards may not be widely accepted in remote areas, so it’s best to carry cash with you.
There are no major restaurants within the mountain area, but nearby towns and villages offer local food options. Expect simple, traditional meals like rice, noodles, and locally sourced vegetables and meats.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in nearby towns, though halal food may be limited. It’s best to check in advance with restaurants if you have specific dietary preferences.
There are several guesthouses and hotels in nearby towns such as Lincang. For a more rustic experience, consider staying at a local lodge or eco-lodge near the base of the mountain.
Nearby attractions include the Ailao Mountain and the Cangshan Mountain, both of which offer scenic views, hiking opportunities, and cultural experiences. These can be easily combined with a trip to Yongde Snow Mountain.
Souvenir shops near the base offer locally made handicrafts such as woven items, traditional clothing, and mountain-themed artwork. You can also buy local honey and herbal products.
After visiting, you can take a taxi or bus back to Lincang city. From there, you can continue your trip by bus, train, or flight depending on your next destination.
