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Mount Genyen is located in Reke Township, Litang County, Sichuan Province. Its Tibetan name is Jiamaripa. It is the 13th goddess among the 24 sacred mountains of Tibetan Buddhism in my country and one of the eight sacred places of Heruka. In Tibet, the sacred places of Heruka are only the Himalayas and Mount Genyen.
Litang's climate belongs to the plateau zone, characterized by low temperatures, long winters, abundant sunshine, strong radiation, strong winds, simultaneous hydrothermal and thermal periods, high evaporation, and distinct wet and dry seasons. The average temperature is 3.0°C, with a maximum of 25.6°C and a minimum of -30.6°C. The average annual ground temperature is 5.9°C, with annual rainfall of 722.2 mm and a frost-free period of only 50 days. The average annual sunshine hours are 2,637.7 hours, with abundant sunshine and strong radiation, reaching an annual solar radiation of 159.4 kcal/cm². Winters are dry and cold, while warm seasons are short and cool.
The Genyen area is full of snow-capped peaks, and the most revered and beautiful are the three sacred mountains. Among them, the main peak of Genyen is 6,204 meters above sea level, the Xiaoza Sacred Mountain is 5,807 meters above sea level, and the Kemerun Sacred Mountain is 5,780 meters above sea level.
At Lenggu Temple, you can also see the magnificent scenery of the golden mountain in the sun: the snow-capped mountains before dawn are cold and mysterious. When the eastern sky is painted with morning glow, the snow-capped mountains also wake up from their sleep. In about 10 minutes, the snow-covered mountain tops show a color change from light green to light purple to bright yellow to golden yellow to orange-red to white after the sun rises. The expression of the sacred mountain changes from cold to shy to warm to burning and finally returns to brightness and tranquility. Every change in between is subtle and moving. It is the most charming moment of the sacred mountain, which cannot be understood without witnessing it.
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Mount Genyen is a sacred peak in Tibetan culture, known as one of the “Four Sacred Mountains of Kham.” It holds spiritual significance for local Tibetans and is revered in Tibetan Buddhism. The mountain is also known for its pristine natural beauty and biodiversity.
Located in Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan, China. Access usually involves traveling from Chengdu by car, bus, or private tour to the base area, followed by hiking or guided trekking to explore the mountain.
Accessible year-round, but the best time to visit is from May to October when weather conditions are favorable, and trails are less snow-covered.
Entrance fees vary depending on the specific park or base area. Tickets are usually available offline at the entrance; some tour operators may offer online booking.
Advance booking is recommended during peak tourist seasons (summer months) and for guided tours, ideally 2–4 weeks prior.
2–3 days for base and nearby trekking routes. Longer expeditions may take 5–7 days if summiting or covering extensive trails.
Guided trekking tours are available, usually in Mandarin and sometimes English. Audio guides are uncommon.
Start from the base area, follow marked trekking trails to alpine meadows, visit glaciers and lakes, stop at monasteries or villages, and return via scenic viewpoints. Adjust duration based on fitness and altitude tolerance.
No organized night visits or light shows; special tours may include guided cultural experiences or high-altitude camping.
Relatively uncrowded except during summer holidays. Weekdays in shoulder seasons (May–June, September–October) are least crowded.
Basic facilities at trailheads and monasteries. Some small shops in villages; carry sufficient water and snacks for longer treks.
Limited accessibility due to high altitude and rugged terrain; suitable for physically fit visitors. Elderly or children should exercise caution; not suitable for wheelchairs.
Cash is recommended, especially in villages and small shops; cards may only be accepted in larger towns or organized tours.
Limited to small local eateries near villages; larger meals available at lodges or tour bases.
Vegetarian options available; vegan or halal options may require advance notice at lodges or tours.
Basic guesthouses and lodges in nearby towns or villages; more comfortable stays in county towns within Ganzi Prefecture.
Local handicrafts, Tibetan prayer flags, yak wool products, and small Buddhist artifacts from villages or monasteries.
Return by car or tour vehicle to nearby county towns, then onward travel by bus, private car, or flights from Ganzi or other regional airports.
