Kawaluori Snow Mountain

Introducing Kawaluo Ri Snow Mountain

Kawa Luori Snow Mountain is the highest peak in Xinlong County, located east of the Yalong River in Riba Township in the north of the county. It is one of the four sacred mountains for the local Tibetans, hence its name. "Kawa Luori Mountain" means "snow that never melts year-round" in Tibetan.

The mountain is composed of limestone, dolomite, red sandstone interbedded with marl. Its rolling hills and towering peaks are home to modern glaciers. The peaks and towers are capped year-round with snow, creating a spectacular scenery. The main peak reaches the sky, shrouded in mist morning and evening. The area is rich in forest resources, including spruce, fir, pine, cypress, birch, alpine pine, and shrubs. It is home to argali, deer, muntjac, and other species. The area is also rich in valuable medicinal herbs such as Cordyceps sinensis and Fritillaria thunbergii. At the foot of the mountain lies Tangbo Temple, and in the forest below the peak lies a Sutra Temple, where monks chant sutras.

Climate and best time to travel

sub-humid climate zone of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau;

Best in autumn and winter

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Kawaluori Snow Mountain

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

Kawaluori Snow Mountain is part of the Hengduan mountain range in Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan. It holds ecological and cultural significance as a natural habitat for alpine species and as part of the Tibetan cultural landscape. The area is valued for its pristine environment, religious sites, and breathtaking scenery.

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

• Located in the Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, China.
• Accessible by taxi or private car from nearby towns such as Kangding or Ganzi Town.
• Some local buses may run to nearby villages; walking or trekking is required to reach higher elevations.
• Guided tours often provide transportation from major towns.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Open generally from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, though access may depend on weather conditions.
• Best times to visit are late spring through early autumn (May–October) for clear weather.
• Winter months offer snow landscapes but trails may be difficult due to ice and snow.

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

Entrance fees range around 50–80 RMB depending on specific trails and scenic areas. Tickets are usually purchased at entrance gates; online booking is limited and may require local travel agencies.

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

Booking is optional but recommended during peak tourist season or holidays. 1–3 days in advance is usually sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Half a day to a full day (4–8 hours) depending on hiking routes and photography stops.

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

• Snow-capped peaks and alpine meadows.
• Scenic viewpoints along the main hiking trails.
• Nearby Tibetan monasteries or cultural sites.
• Mountain rivers, streams, and unique rock formations.

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

Guided tours are offered by local operators, typically in Chinese; English-language guides may be arranged upon request. Audio guides are generally not available.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Summit viewpoints along the main trails.
• Alpine meadows with the mountain in the background.
• Streams and lakes reflecting the snow peaks.
• Early morning or late afternoon for soft, scenic lighting.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start from the base and hike gradually to lower mountain trails.
• Visit key viewpoints and natural landmarks along the trail.
• Optional visit to nearby Tibetan monasteries or villages.
• Return via the main trail, stopping at scenic areas for photography.

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

Night visits are not permitted. Special cultural tours may be available during Tibetan festivals.

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

• Weekdays and off-peak seasons are least crowded.
• Peak times are summer holidays and Tibetan festivals.
• Early morning visits offer quieter experiences and better lighting for photography.

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

• Basic toilets at the main entrance or trailheads.
• Small rest areas and benches along popular trails.
• Limited food stalls; visitors are advised to carry snacks and water.
• Occasional souvenir shops near entrances.

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

• Main base areas are accessible to elderly and children.
• Mountain trails may be steep or uneven, challenging for disabled visitors.
• Assistance or guided tours can help navigate more difficult sections.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

• Cash is commonly used for tickets and small purchases.
• Mobile payments like Alipay or WeChat Pay may be accepted at entrances and some shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Small local eateries in nearby villages.
• Tea houses and snack stalls near trailheads.
• Hotel restaurants in nearby towns or travel hubs.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available in local Tibetan eateries; vegan and halal options may be limited depending on the area.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Guesthouses or small hotels in nearby towns or villages.
• Mountain lodges or eco-accommodations for overnight stays.
• Hotels in Ganzi town for more comfortable lodging.

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

• Nearby Tibetan monasteries or temples.
• Scenic valleys, rivers, and lakes in the Ganzi region.
• Cultural villages and traditional Tibetan communities.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Tibetan handicrafts, prayer flags, and traditional jewelry.
• Local artisan products like wool textiles and small statues.
• Postcards and photography prints of the mountain scenery.

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

• Taxi or rideshare to nearby towns or transport hubs.
• Private car or tour operators for visiting surrounding scenic sites.
• Local buses to neighboring villages or town centers.