Gawalong Scenic Area: Encounter a 360° Snow-Capped Autumn Secret in Bomi

Just a half-hour drive from Bomi County, Gawalong is a free wonderland often overlooked by many. No border permit is needed here, yet it boasts autumn snow mountain scenery comparable to Medog, making it a hidden gem along the Zamei Highway.

🗺️ Highlights

▎ Snow Mountain Viewing
360° snow-capped mountains surround you: step out of the car and be embraced by multiple snow peaks
Galongla Glacier: watch the glacier sparkle under the sunlight from afar
Viewing Platform: quietly enjoy the snow mountains and forest from the second floor of the visitor center

▎ Autumn Corridor
Zamei Highway section: red, yellow, and orange leaves intertwined with snow mountains
Best time: late October to early November, when the colorful forest reaches its peak

📍 Practical Information

Location: Beside Zamei Highway, Bomi County, 25 km from the county town
Admission: Completely free
Opening hours: Open all day
Recommended duration: Half a day is enough (afternoon light is best)

🚗 Itinerary

Half-day Highlights Tour
14:00 Depart from Bomi → 14:30 Arrive at Gawalong → Visit visitor center viewing platform → Exterior of Galong Temple → Hike towards the glacier → 18:00 Wait for the sunset golden mountain glow

In-depth Experience
Add a hike to Galongla Heavenly Lake (requires a full day, best in summer)

📸 Photography Guide

Must-shoot spots
Second floor of the visitor center: shoot snow mountains and forest through the glass window
Distant view of Galong Temple: red walls and golden roof framed with snow mountains and forest
Mountain road viewpoint: overlook the old road and distant mountains

Best lighting
15:00-18:00: soft oblique light makes the snow mountains more three-dimensional
Sunset: wait for golden sunlight to bathe the snow peaks

🌟 Seasonal Features

Autumn (October-November)
Colorful forests in full bloom, clear views of snow mountains
Stable climate, ideal for photography

Summer (July-August)
Wildflowers bloom around Galongla Heavenly Lake
Primroses cover the hillsides

Winter (December-March)
Magnificent snow scenes, but some roads may be closed

💡 Useful Tips

Transportation
Self-driving navigation to "Gawalong Scenic Area," road conditions are good
No need to worry about Medog’s "double entry single exit" restrictions

Gear Recommendations
Non-slip hiking shoes: if exploring towards the glacier
Warm jacket: high altitude with large temperature differences
Camera filters: polarizing filters make snow mountains stand out more

Special Reminders
Galong Temple is currently under renovation and closed to visitors
Monkeys may appear along the way, please do not feed them
Parking is free, visitor center facilities are well-equipped

When autumn colors dye the Zamei Highway
When snow mountains glow golden under the sunset
This free secret place
Generously offers
A gift to every traveler who visits