Yala Snow Mountain

Introducing Yala Snow Mountain

Yala Snow Mountain, known in Tibetan as "Xiaxue Yala Gabo" (meaning "Eastern White Yak Mountain"), is a renowned sacred mountain in Tibet. Located at the junction of Kangding, Daofu, and Danba counties in Ganzi Prefecture, Sichuan Province, it stands at an altitude of 5,884 meters, facing the sacred Mount Meldo to its northwest.

Covered with snow year-round, the mountain is a renowned sacred mountain in the Kham region, home to the Yala River. The Yala Snow Mountain has been designated one of 18 ecotourism areas in Ganzi Prefecture, known as the "Yala Snow Mountain Natural Ecotourism Area."

The area boasts beautiful scenery and a diverse array of tourist attractions, all beautifully integrated. The most captivating attraction is Youcuo, a turquoise alpine lake nestled beneath the pyramid-shaped Yala Snow Peak. An icefall connects the lake to the glacier, while the surrounding slopes are thicketed with redwoods and rhododendrons, creating a breathtaking natural landscape.

Climate and best time to travel

The most beautiful autumn scenery of Yala Snow Mountain is from October to December

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1 day

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

---

Most Popular FAQs for Yala Snow Mountain

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

Yala Snow Mountain is a prominent peak in the Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, known for its glacial landscapes and rich biodiversity. It holds cultural importance for local Tibetan communities and is a popular destination for adventure tourism and high-altitude trekking.

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

Located near Kangding in Sichuan, visitors can reach Yala Snow Mountain via bus or private car from Kangding. From the base area, walking and hiking are the main ways to explore the mountain, with cable cars available for higher elevations.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The mountain area is generally accessible year-round. The best time to visit is from May to October, when weather conditions are stable and snow scenery is most picturesque.

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

Entrance fees vary depending on the area visited. Typical ticket prices range from CNY 80–150. Tickets can be purchased at the site or online through local tourism websites.

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

It is recommended to book tickets 1–2 weeks in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to ensure availability for cable cars or guided tours.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

1–2 full days are sufficient to experience key highlights, including cable car rides, hiking trails, and nearby cultural sites.

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

• Yala Snow Mountain summit and glaciers
• Alpine meadows and scenic hiking trails
• Panoramic viewpoints for photography
• Nearby Tibetan villages and cultural sites
• Sunrise and sunset vantage points

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese and occasionally in English. Audio guides are generally not provided.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Yala Snow Mountain peak and glacier areas
• Alpine meadows during summer months
• Sunrise and sunset viewpoints along the trails
• Scenic areas near Tibetan villages for cultural shots

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start from the base area, take the cable car to higher altitudes, hike along marked trails, explore meadows and glaciers, visit nearby villages, and finish at a scenic viewpoint for sunset.

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

Night visits are limited; stargazing is possible in clear weather. Some tour operators offer overnight camping experiences.

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

The mountain is moderately visited; weekdays and early or late season visits (May–June, September–October) are less crowded.

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

Basic facilities such as toilets, rest areas, and small local eateries are available near the base and village areas. Supplies for hiking should be brought along.

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

Some lower elevation trails and cable car areas are accessible for elderly and children. Steeper trails and high-altitude areas may be challenging; disabled access is limited.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is recommended for small purchases. Major operators and accommodations may accept mobile payments such as WeChat Pay or Alipay.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Local Tibetan guesthouse restaurants at base areas
• Small cafes and eateries in nearby Kangding or village towns

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options may be available at Tibetan guesthouses; vegan and halal options are limited and should be requested in advance.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Guesthouses and inns in nearby Tibetan villages
• Hotels in Kangding city for overnight stays
• Camping options near trailheads or base areas

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

• Nearby Tibetan villages and monasteries
• Hiking trails in the surrounding plateau
• Scenic rivers and alpine lakes in Ganzi Prefecture

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Tibetan handicrafts, jewelry, and textiles
• Local woolen clothing and artwork
• Small trinkets from village markets

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

• Private taxis or tour vehicles to Kangding or other nearby towns
• Buses to surrounding areas in Ganzi Prefecture
• Organized trekking tours for multi-day trips