Deqin County

Introducing Deqin County

Deqin County is one of the counties under the jurisdiction of Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, located in the northwest of Yunnan Province. Deqin County is known as the "Homeland of Song and Dance" and is the home of China's most precious golden snub-nosed monkey.

In addition, Deqin County is located in the southern extension of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. It has majestic and towering snow-capped mountains, especially the Meili Snow Mountain, as well as deep and charming, mirror-like alpine lakes and meadows, magnificent temples and mysterious Tibetan Buddhist culture, and colorful ethnic culture and folk art.

Climate and best time to travel

temperate climate;

Best in spring and summer

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to visit for 2 to 3 days

Meili Snow Mountain

Meili Snow Mountain, also known as Prince Snow Mountain, is the most sacred of the Eight Sacred Mountains in Tibet. Its famous "Golden Mountain in the Sunlight" is a rare sight many dream of. Its 6,740-meter main peak remains unconquered and is the only peak prohibited for climbing due to cultural protection. The best time to view Meili Snow Mountain is from October to May, when the chances of seeing the main peak and other peaks are highest.

Yubeng Village

Yubeng Village is a must-stop during the Meili Snow Mountain circumambulation. Since ancient times, only a single horse and horse post road has connected it to the outside world, earning it the nickname "paradise on earth." It is divided into Upper Yubeng and Lower Yubeng, approximately one kilometer apart. Upper Yubeng leads to the Ice Lake and Xiaonong Base Camp, while Lower Yubeng leads to the Divine Waterfall and Divine Lake. It is one of the best locations for photographing Shennv Peak, with the best vantage points being Nanzong Pass, the Meili Inn and Hikers' Home in Upper Yubeng, and the Divine Waterfall Inn in Lower Yubeng.

Feilai Temple

Feilai Temple is located along the Yunnan-Tibet Highway, approximately 10 kilometers from Deqin County. Facing Kawagebo, the main peak of Meili Snow Mountain, it offers an ideal spot for photographing the "Golden Mountain in the Sunlight." Due to its unique location, it has become a popular tourist destination along the Yunnan-Tibet Highway, boasting a wide variety of inns and restaurants. There's actually a small temple here, usually occupied by a single lama, a cat, and a large rooster.

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Most Popular FAQs for Deqin County

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Deqin County, in northwestern Yunnan, serves as the gateway to Meili Snow Mountain and is part of the Tibetan cultural region. It is historically significant for its Tibetan Buddhist heritage, ancient monasteries, and as a center of highland trade and culture.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Located in northwestern Yunnan near the Tibetan border. Accessible via Deqin Shangri-La Airport, buses from Shangri-La or other Yunnan towns, taxis locally, and walking is suitable within towns and monasteries.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Most attractions open 8:00–17:00. The best time to visit is from April to October for mild weather, clear skies, and accessible mountain trails.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

• Feilai Temple: ~50 RMB, tickets onsite.
• Pudacuo or other national parks in the region: 200–250 RMB, available online or at entrance.
• Dukezong Ancient Town: Free; some museums may charge a small fee.
• Meili Snow Mountain viewpoints: 20–50 RMB, tickets onsite.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For Meili Snow Mountain trekking, guided tours, or national parks, booking 1–3 days in advance is recommended. Monastery visits can often be purchased onsite.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

3–5 days to explore Deqin County, including trekking, monasteries, villages, and grasslands. Add extra days for Meili Snow Mountain or extended photography tours.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Meili Snow Mountain (Kawagebo Peak)
• Feilai Temple
• Dukezong Ancient Town
• Napa Grassland and Lake
• Tibetan villages and cultural sites

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Chinese and English. Some monasteries provide local guides; audio guides are limited.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Meili Snow Mountain from valley or viewpoint platforms
• Napa Grassland at sunrise or sunset
• Dukezong Ancient Town rooftops
• Feilai Temple courtyard
• Scenic river valleys and alpine meadows

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start in Dukezong Ancient Town, then visit Feilai Temple. Next, explore Napa Grassland and Lake. Allocate a full day for Meili Snow Mountain viewpoints and photography. Optionally, visit nearby Tibetan villages for cultural immersion.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are limited. Dukezong Ancient Town offers evening street activity, local shops, and cultural performances. Special Tibetan cultural shows may be available in certain hotels or local venues.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Peak season is July–August and Chinese holidays. Least crowded times are April–June and September–October, preferably on weekdays.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities are available in towns and major attractions, including restaurants, cafes, souvenir shops, toilets, and rest areas.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Accessibility is moderate. Towns and temples are generally accessible, but highland areas and mountain viewpoints can be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is recommended for small shops, local markets, and transportation. Major hotels, tour operators, and some attractions accept cards and mobile payments.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Tibetan-style restaurants in Dukezong Ancient Town
• Cafes offering coffee, tea, and local snacks
• Hotel restaurants serving Tibetan and Chinese cuisine

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are widely available in monasteries and Tibetan-style cafes. Halal options may be limited; vegetarian Tibetan dishes are accessible.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Songtsam Lodge Deqin
• Shangri-La Hotel Deqin
• Local guesthouses in Dukezong Ancient Town
• Jinjiang Inn Deqin

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Pudacuo National Park (if traveling via Shangri-La)
• Feilai Temple and surrounding Tibetan villages
• Napa Grassland and Lake
• Meili Snow Mountain trekking routes

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops sell Tibetan handicrafts, prayer flags, yak wool products, local teas, jewelry, and traditional clothing.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Flights from Deqin Shangri-La Airport to Kunming, Lhasa, or other Yunnan cities.
• Bus services to Shangri-La, Lijiang, and other nearby towns.
• Private cars or guided tours for highland scenic areas.