Introducing Yakxia Snow Mountain
Yakxia Snow Mountain, also known as Yakou Mountain, stands in the northern part of Heishui County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, with an altitude of 4,743 meters. The towering snow-capped mountains are shrouded in mist all year round. With the changing seasons of spring rain, summer sun, autumn wind and winter snow, it is as beautiful as a fairyland.
From afar, the Yakxia Snow Mountain Winding Road winds its way along the ravines, curling around the mountainside like a dragon poised to soar into the clouds. The snow-capped mountains offer a gentle, uninterrupted expanse, with rolling hills cascading one after another. The forest resources here are rich and diverse, with distinct vertical distributions of vegetation. From the cols toward the ridges, lush pines and ancient cypresses give way to dense shrubs and alpine meadows, ending at the summit where blue skies and white clouds intertwine. Yakxia, as the source of the Minjiang River, boasts abundant water resources. Fiery red or golden leaves float on the water, while graceful tree trunks, like colorful "hair," bend into the water, creating a dazzling array of ever-changing scenery.
Climate and best time to travel
The climate is humid with lots of rain and snow;
The scenery of each season is different, and autumn is the best
Tickets
free
Attraction opening hours
All day
Most Popular FAQs for Yaksha Snow Mountain
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Yaksha Snow Mountain is a prominent peak in Sichuan, valued for its ecological diversity, alpine scenery, and cultural significance to local Tibetan communities. It is an important site for environmental conservation and high-altitude research.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
- Located in Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan, China.
- Accessible by private car or taxi from nearby towns; public buses may reach the base area.
- Hiking and trekking are required to explore higher altitudes; local guides are recommended.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- Open year-round, but peak visiting season is May to October.
- Early morning is ideal for clear views and photography.
- Winter visits require proper equipment due to snow and cold temperatures.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
Entrance fees vary depending on specific trails or parks; typically around 50–100 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at park entrances or through local travel agencies; online booking may be available via regional tourism platforms.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
Advanced booking is recommended during peak season or for guided tours; 1–3 days ahead is usually sufficient.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
Half a day to two full days, depending on the extent of hiking and exploration desired.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- Main snow-capped peaks and glaciers.
- Alpine meadows and rivers.
- Local Tibetan villages and cultural sites.
- Panoramic viewpoints accessible via hiking trails.
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Guided tours are available, primarily in Chinese. English-speaking guides may be arranged through travel agencies. Audio guides are not typically provided.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- Mountain summits and ridgelines.
- Glacier fields and reflective lakes.
- Sunrise and sunset viewpoints for dramatic lighting.
- Traditional Tibetan village settings with mountain backdrops.
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
- Start from the base area and hike to key viewpoints.
- Visit local villages en route for cultural experiences.
- Loop back via scenic trails to observe rivers, meadows, and glacial landscapes.
- End at a panoramic viewpoint or observation deck for sunset photography.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
Night visits are generally not available due to safety concerns. Special guided tours may be arranged for photography or ecological study purposes.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
- Least crowded on weekdays and outside national holidays.
- Summer weekends may be busy with hikers and tourists.
- Early morning visits help avoid crowds and capture clearer views.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
- Basic toilet facilities at base stations and trailheads.
- Small shops or vendors near parking areas for snacks and drinks.
- Rest areas along popular hiking trails.
- Limited souvenir shops near village stops.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
- Lower altitude trails are suitable for children and elderly with moderate fitness.
- High-altitude areas require good physical condition; not recommended for mobility-impaired visitors.
- Guides can assist with planning easier routes for families.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
- Cash is recommended for small purchases, local vendors, and entry fees.
- Mobile payments such as Alipay or WeChat Pay may be accepted at larger facilities.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- Small local eateries near the base area and Tibetan villages.
- Cafes and restaurants in nearby towns for larger meals.
- Some guesthouses offer meals for overnight visitors.
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Vegetarian and halal options are available at Tibetan-style eateries and nearby towns. Vegan options may be limited.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- Guesthouses and small hotels near the base of the mountain.
- Tibetan-style lodges and eco-lodges for overnight stays.
- Larger hotels available in the nearest towns or county centers.
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Other nearby peaks and alpine trails in Aba Prefecture.
- Tibetan monasteries and cultural heritage sites.
- Rivers, lakes, and natural parks in surrounding valleys.
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Handicrafts, Tibetan textiles, and jewelry.
- Local artworks and photography prints of the mountains.
- Traditional food items and dried fruits from nearby villages.
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Private car or taxi to nearby towns and attractions.
- Guided tours can provide onward transportation.
- Local buses connect to regional destinations, but schedules may be limited.