Live Your Best Lives
Duoxiong La Mountain, located at the junction of Medog County and Milin County in the Tibet Autonomous Region, is the first obstacle for hikers hiking in Medog. It is about 4,500 meters above sea level. Because it is near the snow line, you can see both snow and gurgling streams.
The strong winds at the pass keep Doxiong La Mountain shrouded in mist and clouds for much of the year. Winter is particularly dangerous, with heavy snow blocking the mountain. Due to the lack of weathering, the terrain is covered in a thin layer of soil, with pebbles beneath. This rugged terrain leads to avalanches, both large and small, every winter.
Furthermore, Doxiong La Mountain is very cold, similar to the temperatures at Everest Base Camp, which are around freezing even in the summer. The difference is that the sun rarely shines on Doxiong La Mountain year-round. After crossing Doxiong La Mountain and descending the slopes, you can reach Medog, a mountain that attracts a constant stream of tourists every year!
Climate: Plateau subarctic semi-arid monsoon climate
Best time to travel: June to November
1 day
free
June to October every year
Duoxiong La Mountain is part of the high-altitude Nyingchi region in Tibet, known for its pristine alpine environment and strategic position along Tibetan cultural routes. It holds ecological and cultural significance, preserving traditional Tibetan pastoral lifestyles.
Located in Nyingchi, Tibet, Duoxiong La Mountain is accessible via road from Nyingchi city. Visitors usually reach it by private car, tour vehicles, or taxi. Walking and hiking are mainly used for exploring trails on the mountain itself.
The area is open year-round, but the best time to visit is from late May to September when weather conditions are favorable and landscapes are lush and clear.
There may be a minor entrance or permit fee, typically purchased offline at local checkpoints or through tour operators.
Advance booking is generally not required for individual visitors, but organized tours can be booked a few days in advance, especially during peak tourist season.
Half a day to a full day is recommended to hike trails, enjoy viewpoints, and visit nearby villages or monasteries.
Guided tours are available in Chinese and occasionally English through local tour operators; audio guides are rare.
Start from the base, hike trails toward summit viewpoints, explore nearby alpine pastures, visit local villages, and return via scenic paths for sunset photography.
Night visits are generally not feasible due to high altitude and limited facilities; special tours may occur during local Tibetan festivals.
The mountain is usually peaceful and not crowded. Weekdays and early mornings offer the quietest experience.
Facilities are limited: basic rest areas, small food stalls, and minimal toilet access near trailheads or villages.
Access is challenging due to steep terrain and high altitude; elderly and children should be cautious, and disabled access is limited.
Cash is preferred; mobile payments may work in some towns but are unreliable on remote mountain trails.
Local Tibetan-style eateries and small food stalls are available near villages or trailheads.
Vegetarian options are limited; Tibetan cuisine is mainly meat-based. Halal food may be found in Nyingchi town but is rare on the mountain.
Basic guesthouses and Tibetan homestays near trailheads or villages; larger hotels are located in Nyingchi city.
Small shops sell Tibetan handicrafts, prayer flags, yak wool products, and traditional jewelry.
Private car, local bus, or tour vehicles are recommended to continue traveling in Nyingchi Prefecture or return to Nyingchi city.
