Hike to the summit of Kazila Mountain for breathtaking views of the surrounding Tibetan Plateau, explore the rich flora and fauna of the region, and experience the unique Tibetan culture in nearby villages. Photographers will find incredible vistas, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Kazila Mountain, located in Sichuan Province, stands at an elevation of 4,718 meters. Due to its high altitude, trees are sparse, and alpine meadows dominate the landscape. From here, the mountains appear layer upon layer, each one further away and lighter in color, stretching to the horizon. It truly feels like walking on a "Heavenly Road."
As we crossed Mount Kazila, the mist began to dissipate, and the clouds in the sky began to grow, sometimes pure white, sometimes dark and psychedelic, changing rapidly. However, only in her arms could we experience this beautiful scenery.
Spring, summer and autumn are the best times to visit
Recommended visit time
free
All day
Kazila Mountain is part of the Tibetan Himalayas in the Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, offering both stunning natural beauty and cultural significance. It is an important site for Tibetan Buddhists and is known for its spiritual history and scenic importance.
Kazila Mountain is located in the Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Sichuan Province. The nearest city is Kangding, from where you can take a bus or hire a taxi to the base of the mountain. The last stretch involves hiking or taking a local vehicle.
The mountain is open year-round. The best times to visit are during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the views are clear. Avoid the rainy season (July and August) for safety and visibility reasons.
The entrance fee is generally modest, around 100-150 RMB, depending on the region. Tickets can typically be purchased onsite, though online ticketing is available for some tours of the region.
It is advisable to book tickets in advance during peak seasons, particularly in spring and autumn, to avoid long lines. Booking a few days in advance is generally sufficient.
A full visit typically requires at least one full day to explore the summit and surrounding areas. For those wishing to hike deeper into the region or explore Tibetan villages, two days may be more appropriate.
Must-see highlights include the summit of Kazila Mountain, panoramic views of the Tibetan Plateau, local monasteries, and the nearby Tibetan villages. The region's stunning landscapes, especially at sunrise or sunset, are also major attractions.
Guided tours are available and are typically offered in Chinese. Some English-speaking guides may be available, but it’s best to arrange a guide in advance if you require English services.
The summit of Kazila Mountain offers the best panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and peaks. Other great spots for photography include the Tibetan villages below and the view of the plateau at sunrise and sunset.
The typical route involves hiking to the summit for panoramic views, followed by a visit to the local monasteries and Tibetan villages. If you're an experienced hiker, you can also explore nearby trails and secluded spots around the mountain.
Night visits are not common, and there are no light shows. However, you can enjoy the night sky in this remote location, which offers spectacular stargazing opportunities due to low light pollution.
The mountain is generally less crowded than more famous Tibetan tourist destinations. The best times to visit for fewer crowds are weekdays in the spring and autumn months, avoiding the major Chinese public holidays.
Basic facilities such as toilets, food stalls, and small shops are available at the base of the mountain. More advanced facilities can be found in Kangding or nearby Tibetan villages. Bring sufficient water and snacks for longer hikes.
The mountain's high altitude and rugged terrain make it difficult for elderly or disabled visitors to access. However, children and healthy adults can enjoy the more accessible trails, especially those around the base and the first sections of the climb.
Cash is widely accepted in the region, especially in rural areas. Mobile payments (like Alipay and WeChat Pay) are commonly used in more developed areas, but may not be accepted at all places around Kazila Mountain.
There are few restaurants directly on Kazila Mountain. However, Kangding city has several restaurants and cafes offering Tibetan and Sichuanese cuisine, including yak meat dishes and barley-based foods.
Vegetarian food is commonly available, particularly in the Tibetan villages, where simple dishes like vegetables, rice, and barley bread are staples. Halal food is available in some restaurants, especially in Kangding due to the influence of Muslim culture.
There are several hotels and guesthouses in Kangding, including options ranging from budget hostels to more upscale accommodations. Staying in Kangding is often more convenient, as it is a transportation hub for reaching Kazila Mountain.
Nearby attractions include the Anjue Temple in Kangding, the Tagong Grassland, and the Luoji Mountain, which also offers great hiking opportunities. You can also explore the Tibetan culture in local villages nearby.
Souvenir shops are available in Kangding, where you can find Tibetan handicrafts such as Thangkas (Tibetan Buddhist paintings), prayer beads, yak wool items, and traditional Tibetan clothing and jewelry.
The best transportation options after visiting Kazila Mountain are buses or taxis back to Kangding, from where you can catch buses or trains to other parts of Sichuan or to major cities like Chengdu. Renting a car is another option for more flexibility.