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At Meili North Slope, visitors can enjoy trekking and hiking through pristine alpine forests, explore Tibetan culture, and view the stunning Meili Snow Mountain. The area is ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers. Don't miss out on the scenic sunrise or sunset views over the mountains.
The Meili North Slope refers to the northern peaks of the Meili Snow Mountain Group, not a single snow-capped mountain. From east to west, it includes Lairigongka (6,300 meters), Naridingka (6,379 meters), Mangganglaka (6,040 meters), and Kawagebo II (6,509 meters). This is a gathering camp for locals, who gather here every May and June to collect Cordyceps. From the camp, you can get a close-up view of Lairigongka, Naridingka, Mangganglaka, and their glaciers, making it an ideal base for photographing the scenery of the Meili North Slope.
Best travel time: October to May
Half a day to a whole day
free
All day
Meili North Slope is part of the Meili Snow Mountain Range, which is sacred to the Tibetan people. The region is known for its natural beauty, including glaciers, dense forests, and snow-capped peaks. The mountain is considered one of the most sacred mountains in Tibet and remains a pilgrimage site for many Tibetan Buddhists.
Meili North Slope is located near Zhongdian (Shangri-La) in Yunnan province. It is accessible by car or taxi from Zhongdian, which is about 30 km away. There are no metro or bus services to the park, so traveling by taxi or private vehicle is the most convenient option.
Meili North Slope is open year-round, but the best times to visit are from April to October when the weather is milder and the views are clearer. Winter can be extremely cold, and some areas may be inaccessible due to snow.
The entrance fee for Meili North Slope is approximately 100 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the park or through local travel agencies. It is recommended to buy tickets on-site, as online booking is not always available for this remote location.
Booking tickets in advance is not typically required. However, during peak seasons (April to October), it's advisable to book a day or two ahead, especially if you're visiting with a group or planning a guided tour.
It takes approximately 3-5 hours to explore the main hiking trails and viewpoints. For a more leisurely visit, with time for photography and relaxation, you may want to spend the whole day in the area.
The must-see highlights include the panoramic views of the Meili Snow Mountain, the forested hiking trails, and the Tibetan monasteries nearby. The sunrise and sunset views over the mountain range are particularly stunning.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and sometimes in English. These tours can help you learn more about the local Tibetan culture and the natural beauty of the region. It is recommended to book a guide in advance if you want an English-speaking one.
The best viewpoints for photography are along the main hiking trails, especially those that provide a clear view of the Meili Snow Mountain. The morning and late afternoon light create the best conditions for stunning photos of the snow-capped peaks.
The recommended route starts at the main entrance, where you can hike up to the first viewpoint. From there, you can explore the nearby forested areas and continue to higher elevations for the best panoramic views. A circular route around the mountain range provides a complete experience of the area.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Meili North Slope. The best way to experience the area is during the day, particularly for sunrise or sunset, which provides the best lighting for photographs.
The park can be crowded during national holidays and weekends. The least crowded times are early mornings or late afternoons, especially on weekdays during the off-peak months from November to March.
There are basic facilities, including toilets and rest areas. Food and water are available in small shops near the entrance, but it is recommended to bring your own supplies, especially water, for the hike.
The terrain is rugged and may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors to navigate. However, families with children can still enjoy the park, particularly on the shorter and less strenuous trails near the entrance.
Cash is widely accepted, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are becoming more common in the area. It's still advisable to carry some cash, especially for small purchases and in remote locations.
There are a few small restaurants and cafes near the entrance where you can enjoy local Tibetan food, such as yak meat, butter tea, and momo dumplings. For a wider variety, it's best to head back to Zhongdian.
Vegetarian options are available, particularly in Tibetan cuisine. Halal food may be limited, as the region is predominantly Tibetan, but vegetarian dishes such as Tibetan barley and vegetable momo are common.
Most accommodations are found in Zhongdian (Shangri-La), which is about 30 km away. There are several guesthouses, boutique hotels, and Tibetan-style hotels offering a range of prices. Some lodges near the park offer basic amenities and are perfect for those looking to stay closer to nature.
Nearby attractions include the Songzanlin Monastery, the Pudacuo National Park, and the Napa Lake. These can easily be combined with a visit to Meili North Slope for a full day of sightseeing.
Souvenir shops near the park sell traditional Tibetan items, including prayer beads, Thangka paintings, Tibetan jewelry, and locally made woolen goods. These make for great keepsakes from the region.
The best way to continue your trip is by taxi or private car. Public transportation options are limited in the area, so booking a taxi or arranging a private driver from Zhongdian is recommended for further travel.
