Nanjiluo Scenic Area of Biluo Snow Mountain in Weixi County, Diqing

📍 Overview

Nestled in Badi Township (巴迪乡), Weixi County, Diqing Prefecture, Yunnan, the Nanjilu Trek crosses the stunning Biluo Snow Mountain (碧罗雪山) and straddles the watershed between the Lancang River (澜沧江) and Nu River (怒江). The average elevation here soars above 4,000 meters, offering alpine adventure at its finest! 🏔️❄️

🚦 Access & Regulations

• Daily visitor limit: Only 200 hikers allowed per day — advanced booking at least 15 days ahead is a must. No unauthorized entry permitted.

• Open season: May to October annually (closed in winter). In 2025, expect tighter control in core areas for preservation.

🌊 Scenic Highlights & Routes

The “Twelve Lakes” Wonderland

• Famous spots: Waterfall at Lake #3 and the snow-capped mountain reflections at Lake #5 are must-see views on the classic small loop.

• Hidden gems: Lake #7’s blue ice (seen in winter) and Lake #12’s “Heaven’s Eye” — the highest lake at extreme altitude.

Trekking Routes at a Glance

⚠️ Important Rules & Tips

• Strict rules: No overnight camping allowed; all hikers must descend before 4:30 PM.

• Starting 2025, a local guide is mandatory (cost about 300 RMB per vehicle, shared groups possible).

• Getting there: Only way in is by booking a 4WD vehicle through Badi Township guesthouses (about 300 RMB per person round trip). The bumpy 2-hour ride ends at Lake #3 trailhead.

• From Shangri-La or Lijiang airports, expect a 5-6 hour bus ride to Badi Township.

🧳 When to Go & What to Bring

• Best months:

  • May-June: Snowmelt and glacier wonders.

  • July-August: Blooming alpine rhododendrons (watch for fog).

  • September-October: Stunning autumn foliage.

• Must-haves: Waterproof hiking boots (streams can be slippery), a sturdy rain jacket (for sudden mountain weather), trash bags (no bins on trail), and altitude sickness meds for high passes above 4200 meters.

💰 Costs & Accommodation

• Expenses: 4WD shuttle (~300 RMB), garbage management fee (~50 RMB), and possible new entry fees starting 2025.

• Stay: Badi Township guesthouses cost about 100-150 RMB per night. Booking your shuttle often secures your hiking permit for free.

💎 Summary

Nanjilu Trek is the last wild secret of Biluo Snow Mountain — a pristine alpine paradise where hikers must follow strict eco-rules: limited daily visitors, mandatory guides, and “pack it in, pack it out” trash policies. The small loop offers iconic waterfalls, the large loop links nine lakes in scenic harmony, and the Heaven’s Eye trail challenges only the bravest. Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? 🌄🥾❄️