Kawagarbo (卡瓦格博), the highest peak of the Meili Snow Mountain (梅里雪山) range at 6,740 meters, has been worshipped as a sacred mountain by Tibetan Buddhists for over 1,300 years. As one of the eight holy mountains in Tibetan Buddhism, it holds deep spiritual significance in the local Kagyu (噶举) tradition.
Early Historical Records
The mountain first appeared in historical texts during the Tang Dynasty (唐代) when Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo (松赞干布) designated it as a sacred Buddhist site. The 17th century saw the establishment of pilgrimage routes that continue to this day.
Mountaineering History
Despite its spiritual status, Kawagarbo (卡瓦格博) attracted mountaineering attempts:
- 1902: First recorded attempt by British expedition
- 1987-1996: Multiple Japanese-Chinese joint expeditions failed to summit
- 1991: Deadliest accident when 17 climbers perished in an avalanche
- 2001: Chinese government banned climbing to respect local beliefs
Cultural Significance
The mountain features prominently in:
- Tibetan Buddhist scriptures
- Local folklore and oral traditions
- Annual pilgrimage ceremonies like the Kangkar (转山) circumambulation
Natural Preservation
In 2019, the Diqing Prefecture (迪庆州) government established strict conservation measures to protect the mountain’s fragile ecosystem while respecting its cultural importance.
Modern Recognition
- 1986: Listed as a provincial nature reserve
- 2003: Included in the Three Parallel Rivers (三江并流) UNESCO World Heritage Site
- 2020: Officially recognized as a “Holy Mountain” under Chinese law
The history of Kawagarbo (卡瓦格博) reflects the harmonious coexistence of natural wonder, spiritual tradition, and cultural preservation in the Diqing (迪庆) region.
Sacred Mountain Worship
Meili Snow Mountain (梅里雪山), known as Kawagarbo (卡瓦格博) in Tibetan, represents:
- One of the most sacred mountains in Tibetan Buddhism
- The spiritual center of the Khampa (康巴) Tibetan culture
- A living cultural landscape where nature and faith intertwine
Religious Traditions
The mountain holds profound meaning in Tibetan Buddhism:
- Pilgrimage Culture: Annual kora (转山) circumambulation draws thousands of devotees
- Monasteries: Surrounding temples like Yongzhi Lamasery (永芝寺) serve as spiritual centers
- Prayer Flags: Colorful mantras blanket the mountain passes, carrying prayers to heaven
Ethnic Customs
Local Tibetan communities maintain unique traditions:
- Festivals: Gangkar (岗嘎尔) Festival celebrates the mountain deity each spring
- Oral Traditions: Epic poems recount the mountain’s creation myths
- Taboos: Strict prohibitions against pointing at or disrespecting the mountain
Artistic Inspiration
Meili’s grandeur has inspired:
- Thangka Paintings: Sacred depictions of the snow-capped peaks
- Folk Songs: Ballads praising the mountain’s beauty
- Literature: Numerous works by Tibetan and Han Chinese writers
Conservation Ethos
The local culture embodies environmental protection:
- Sacred geography beliefs prevent over-exploitation
- Traditional grazing practices maintain ecological balance
- Community-based tourism respects carrying capacity
UNESCO Recognition
The mountain’s cultural value contributed to:
- 2003 inclusion in Three Parallel Rivers (三江并流) World Heritage Site
- 2020 designation as National Park with cultural preservation components
This living cultural landscape continues to shape Tibetan identity while attracting respectful visitors seeking spiritual connection with nature’s majesty.
English-speaking Mountain Guide of Haba Snow Mountain Climbing
1, Ashu Du
2,
Mandarin Chinese-speaking Mountain Guide of Haba Snow Mountain Climbing
My name is Steven Wen (Chinese: 文志鹏, Pinyin: Wen Zhipeng). I work as a driver and English-speaking tour guide for Yunnan Exploration for 8 years as a driver and English-speaking tour guide. I am from neighbor Sichuan province (pandas’ hometown) and I have been living in Lijiang for ten years. I used to work at the Lijiang International Travel Agency as a travel consultant for two years, organized many tours for travelers from worldwidely. From those tours, I’ve gained plenty of experience, resources and contacts, and received favorable reviews, Now I provide a private car/driver service. I have a Ford NEW FOCUS sedan, which is suitable for a small group with 1 ~ 3 passengers. About me, I am outgoing, thoughtful, careful and with a good sense of humor. Safety first; Have fun foremost!
Background and Experience
- Hometown: Sichuan Province, famous for its pandas
- Residence: Lijiang for ten years
- Professional Experience:
- Eight years with Yunnan Exploration as a driver and tour guide
- Former travel consultant at Lijiang International Travel Agency for two years
- Organized numerous tours for international travelers, gaining extensive experience and resources
Services Offered
- Private Car/Driver Service:
- Vehicle: Ford NEW FOCUS sedan
- Capacity: Suitable for small groups (1-3 passengers)
Personal Attributes
- Personality: Outgoing, thoughtful, careful, and humorous
- Guiding Philosophy: Safety first, fun foremost
I look forward to providing you with a safe and enjoyable travel experience in Lijiang. Thank you!
Introduction to Haba Snow Mountain
Haba Snow Mountain is located in Haba Village, Sanba Naxi Township, Shangri-La City, Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province. The main peak reaches an altitude of 5,396 meters and stands across the Jinsha River from Yulong Snow Mountain. It is a crucial part of the “Three Parallel Rivers of Yunnan” World Natural Heritage site. In the Naxi language, “Haba” means “golden flower.” The mountain exhibits distinct vertical climate zones, ranging from subtropical to frigid zones, with a temperature difference of about 22.8°C between the base and the summit. Its vegetation is distributed in a layered manner, covering alpine tundra, alpine meadows, alpine shrubs, fir and spruce forests, evergreen broadleaf forests, and dry-hot valley scrublands, making it exceptionally rich in plant species. As the only 5,000-meter snow mountain in Yunnan that permits climbing, Haba Snow Mountain offers a unique geographical and ecological environment, providing climbers with diverse and spectacular mountaineering experiences.
Climbing History
With the rise of outdoor sports, Haba Snow Mountain has become a popular climbing destination due to its many advantages. Organizations such as Western Impression Outdoor have guided thousands of climbers over the years. Through continuous exploration and practice, climbing routes have become well-established, and safety systems have been perfected, allowing more mountaineering enthusiasts to challenge the mountain. It has become a preferred entry-level snow mountain for many, witnessing countless climbers’ passion for exploration and personal growth.
Climbing Routes
The climbing route is well-defined, starting from Haba Village at 2,650 meters and ascending to the summit at 5,396 meters. Its reasonable length and elevation gain make it a “touchstone for snow mountain climbing.” The overall route consists of:
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Departing from Haba Village, passing through forests and grassland trails to reach the base camp at 4,100 meters.
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Continuing along stone and gravel paths to the “Despair Slope.”
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Passing through Moon Bay and finally reaching the summit.
The specific climbing timeline is as follows:
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3:30 AM: Depart from base camp.
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5:30 AM: After climbing two small slopes, reach the large stone slab.
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6:00 AM: Enter the gravel zone.
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7:00 AM: Enter the mixed ice and snow zone.
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8:00 AM: Around 4,900 meters, put on crampons for the Despair Slope.
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9:30 AM: Reach Moon Bay.
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10:00 AM: Summit and take photos.
Best Seasons
Haba Snow Mountain can be climbed year-round, with climbing windows available in all seasons. However, spring and autumn are the most stable and favorable times due to moderate temperatures and fewer snowstorms, ensuring clear visibility.
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Spring: The mountain is full of blooming flowers, creating a vibrant and lively landscape.
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Autumn: Dry and crisp weather provides excellent views of surrounding snow mountains and forests, allowing climbers to focus on their ascent.
Essential Gear
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Warm Clothing: Down jackets, insulated trekking suits, and windproof gear to combat extreme cold at the summit.
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Mountaineering Boots: Waterproof, anti-slip, and supportive boots suitable for various terrains, especially icy and snowy sections.
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Crampons: Essential for traction and safety in icy areas around 4,900 meters and beyond.
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Helmet: Protects against falling rocks and head injuries.
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Backpack: For carrying food, water, first-aid supplies, and essential gear.
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Gloves, Hat, and Scarf: Shields hands, head, and neck from freezing winds.
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Sunglasses: Prevents snow blindness and protects eyes from strong UV reflections.
Important Considerations
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Safety First: Climbing snow mountains carries risks. If faced with severe weather, such as strong winds, climbers must retreat immediately, regardless of proximity to the summit. Respect nature and prioritize safety.
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Hiring a Guide: It is recommended to hire experienced guides, such as those selected by Western Impression Outdoor, who are familiar with the terrain and can significantly increase summit success rates while ensuring safety.
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Energy Management: The trek from Haba Village to the base camp involves a 1,400-meter ascent over approximately 11 kilometers. If needed, climbers can rent horses or mules to conserve energy for the later stages.
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Altitude Acclimatization: Arrive early to adapt to the altitude and minimize altitude sickness. Haba Village is at 2,700 meters, and the base camp is at 4,100 meters. Gradual acclimatization improves climbing success.
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Environmental Awareness: Properly dispose of waste, protect the mountain’s ecosystem, and maintain its pristine beauty.
Haba Snow Mountain is located in the southeastern part of Shangri-La City, Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China, 120 kilometers from Shangri-La County. It is the main ridge of the Yunling Mountain Range, an extension of the Shaluli Mountains, and an important part of the Three Parallel Rivers World Natural Heritage Site. Here’s a detailed introduction to Haba Snow Mountain:
Geographic Location
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Coordinates: 27°19′19″ N, 100°6′22″ E.
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Surrounding Landmarks: To the northwest lies Tiger Leaping Gorge, opposite Yulong Snow Mountain, with the Jinsha River flowing between the two mountains.
Natural Scenery
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Main Peak and Mountain Features: The main peak stands at an altitude of 5,396 meters. The upper part of the mountain is relatively gentle, while the lower part is steep and imposing, giving it a majestic and mysterious appearance. The main peak is proud and isolated, surrounded by four smaller peaks, resembling a silver-crowned treasure cauldron from afar.
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Glaciers and Lakes: At an altitude of around 4,700 meters, the steep cliffs are covered with China’s southernmost maritime temperate glacier. The icefalls resemble frozen waterfalls cascading down the steep slopes. Additionally, ancient glacial activity has left behind relics such as horn peaks, arêtes, U-shaped valleys, and roche moutonnées. Glacial meltwater has formed several glacial lakes, such as Wanhai, Hei Hai, Huang Hai, and Xiao Hai, among which Hei Hai is the most famous.
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Vegetation and Wildlife: Due to the significant altitude difference, Haba Snow Mountain features a distinct alpine vertical climate, with successive zones of subtropical, temperate, subfrigid, and frigid climates. This supports a complete and typical alpine vertical vegetation system, which provides habitats for numerous plants and animals, earning it the title of “Mother of the World’s Gardens” and “Natural Zoo” among biologists.
Tourism Information
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Best Time to Visit: May, September to November are the best times for climbing and hiking, and it is advisable to avoid the rainy season from June to August.
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Transportation: You can take a bus from Lijiang to Haba Village, which takes about 5 to 6 hours.
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Hiking Routes:
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Day 1: Lijiang Ancient Town → Tiger Leaping Gorge → Haba Village.
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Day 2: Haba Village → Primeval Forest/Snow Mountain Meadow → Snow Mountain Valley → Haba Base Camp.
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Day 3: Haba Base Camp → Da Shi Ban → Moon Bay → Summit Haba Snow Mountain → Haba Village.
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Day 4: Haba Village → Tiger Leaping Gorge → Lashi Lake → Lijiang Ancient Town.
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Accommodation and Facilities: Haba Village is the first stop and tourist hub for the Haba Snow Mountain hiking and climbing route, with several guesthouses available. The Haba Base Camp, at an altitude of over 4,100 meters, has relatively complete living facilities, including basic medical services, with tents, prefabricated houses, and stone slab houses available for climbers and tourists.
White Water Terrace|(Baishuitai)
Baishuitai or Baishui Tableland, also named the White Water Terraces, is located in the foothills of the Haba Snow Mountains, 101 kilometers (about 62 miles) southeast of the Shangri-la County. It is known as one of the most attractive destinations in mysterious Shangri-La and is an ancient Chinese landform with a history of 200,000 to 300,000 years.
The variegated landform of the tableland is a continual deposition of calcium carbonate that is contained in the spring water. Every year, the surface of the land is covered by the deposition and finally transformed into the terraced structure you see today. Today, the Baishui Tableland covers an area of three square kilometers (about 741 acres).
The spring water runs down along the slope of the mountain, leaving an impression of a large white jade carving among the green mountain. The tableland lies layer by layer giving the appearance of a terraced field, so the local people call it ‘a field left by fairies’. To the left of the tableland, there is a pool and a moon-shaped platform that is said to be the dresser of the fairies. During the autumn, the mountains around the Baishui Tableland will be covered by various bright-colored flowers and leaves. Amid the mountains, the Baishui Tableland will form a spectacular white contrast.
Besides being a beautifully scenic spot, the Baishui Tableland is also the birthplace of Dongba culture of the Naxi Minority Group. According to legend, the first saint of the Dongba Religion was attracted by the fascinating scenery of this place on his way back from Tibet. He then stopped to missionize here. Later, the Baishui Tableland became known as the Holy Land of the Dongba Religion. When the second saint of the Dongba Religion came here, he created the Dongba pictograph. Each year, on the eighth day of the second lunar month, the Naxi people will gather here to celebrate their traditional festival by singing and dancing all day and night.
More about Baishuitai
It is a stunning, largely uphill ride, through dense forests and undulating meadows, crossed by rushing rivers. On our way we pass the occasional nomads’ tent and several small, Minority and Tibetan villages.
The first of them is a rickety, wooden Yi settlement that is virtually deserted. According to our driver, a taciturn Tibetan, the Yi are probably out gathering mushrooms. Curiously, the subject of the Yi is the very first to loosen his tongue: he claims that the Tibetans dislike the Yi because they practise slash and burn agriculture and are responsible for the cutting down of the forests…. Moreover, in general, they are not to be trusted (his words, not ours). His outburst leaves us a bit baffled because, as far as we know, not all Tibetans are equally ecologically-minded. What to think e.g. of the extended use many Tibetans make of rare furs? Fortunately, our driver is much more positive about the Hui village we pass later. The Hui people living there have adopted the Tibetan language and way of dressing, to the point where they have become almost indistinguishable from the Tibetan majority. Apparently, their ancestors fled to the area when the Muslim Kingdom of Dali was overthrown by the Qing troops, around 1850 or 60.
After three hours of leisurely driving, we get to Sanba, the village at the foot of the limestone terraces, where there is food and accommodation. Fortified by a tasty lunch, we buy a ticket and start climbing, along a well-built path, with whole stretches of timbered walkway and wooden staircases.
Just as we are approaching the first terraces, an old Tibetan guy with a cowboy hat and lots of beads appears from out of nowhere and beckons us onto the shiny surface which, we are surprised to find, isn’t slippery at all! He lures us to his small shrine, lights incense and ‘prays’ over us and, of course, expects a donation.. Never mind, we rather like the chap and the photos are great.
We walk up higher and come to a plateau, where the terraces end, though it looks as if the shallow, water-filled circles that are forming here may well develop into new terraces in the distant future. Up here, a profusion of wildflowers add colour and charm to the already photogenic terraces. Another old man, popping up unexpectedly, indicates that we should go a bit further, that there is more… There is, in fact, a beautiful crystal-clear pool where the water for the terraces originates. And in front of the pool there is another shrine, guarded by an ancient Dongba, or Naxi shaman, a shrivelled little man in robes with a pointy goatee and thick round glasses, holding a book of Naxi pictograms who, as you can guess, also wants to ‘pray’ for us and receive a donation. According to the Forbidden Kingdom (Peter Goullart’s book, mentioned in the Lijiang section), it is advisable to stay on the right side of these Dongbas, as they can be tricky when in a bad mood. So, we cheerfully undergo another mini ceremony, fork out the cash and take some good shots of the old guy.
After a short walk around the plateau, we return to the car and head back towards Zhongdian. We only manage to get our driver going one more time, on the subject of change in Zhongdian, Lijiang, Lhasa… and how he disapproves of it all! Close to town, we drive past a ‘Tibetan Cultural Tour Village’, or some such title, and ask him what kind of place it is. He just shrugs and says dryly, a rip-off joint. We do like this guy’s sense of humour!
Nestled on the northern slopes of Haba Snow Mountain (哈巴雪山) in Shangri-La (香格里拉), Baishuitai (白水台) is a breathtakingly beautiful destination. Beyond its stunning natural landscapes, it serves as the cradle of Dongba culture, hosting spectacular cultural festivities that attract countless visitors eager to explore its wonders.
“Chaobaishui” Dongba Culture Tourism Festival
Every March, Baishuitai becomes the vibrant stage for the grand “Chaobaishui” （朝白水）Dongba Culture Tourism Festival.
Folk Art Invitational Competition: A Global Gathering of Talent
On March 6, the Folk Art Invitational Competition kicks off. Artistic groups and individuals from around the world flock to this cultural rendezvous, showcasing their talents centered around Dongba culture. The stage comes alive with dazzling ethnic costumes, mesmerizing ancient Dongba music, and diverse performances, including dance, instrumental music, and drama. It feels like an impromptu artistic battle, where performers vividly interpret the essence of Dongba culture. The competition awards first, second, and third prizes, with the winning performances showcased on March 7. Exceptional works will also be featured on various platforms, potentially leading to commercial collaborations.
As night falls, the bustling long-table banquet begins, where visitors savor local delicacies while soaking in the rich ethnic ambiance. Post-dinner, storytelling sessions around the fire set the mood for the grand bonfire party, where people join hands, dance, and sing around the flames, leaving behind all worries.
Cultural and Creative Design Competition: Unleash Creativity and Win Big
From March to September, the Shangri-La Cultural and Creative Product Design Competition is in full swing. With a theme centered on Shangri-La culture, the competition spans multiple categories. The launch event takes place at Baishuitai, where designers infuse inspiration from technology, intangible cultural heritage, and Tibetan aesthetics. Exquisite creations such as Meili Snow Mountain (梅里雪山)-themed silver jewelry, unique Nixi black pottery (尼西黑陶) coffee cups, and specialty gifts made from matsutake mushroom paste and highland roses captivate visitors. The competition adopts a combination of online voting and expert evaluation to determine the gold, silver, and bronze prizes. The winners are honored in September at the Cultural Tourism Festival, gaining significant recognition and exposure.
Immersive Intangible Cultural Heritage Experiences: A Journey Through Time
Intangible Heritage Workshop: Crafting Dongba-Inspired Artifacts
At 10:00 AM, the Intangible Heritage Workshop begins! Here, visitors can participate in block printing of Dongba scriptures, experiencing the mystical power of ancient writing. Veteran Dongba masters guide participants in painting sacred totems on leather drums, and some even receive handwritten blessings from the master himself. Witnessing the century-old technique of Dongba paper-making is another highlight. Visitors can try their hand at crafting a sheet of Dongba paper to take home as a memorable souvenir. Writing pictographs on Dongba paper transports one through time, forging a connection with the ancient Naxi (纳西族) ancestors.
Chaobaishui Blessing Ritual: Making Heartfelt Wishes
From 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM, the Chaobaishui Blessing Ritual takes place. Led by Dongba priests, participants light juniper incense, sending wisps of fragrant smoke skyward as prayers echo through the valley, creating a mystical ambiance. With deep reverence, people gather by the sacred spring to make wishes. It is said that prayers made here are particularly effective, bringing peace and fortune to oneself and loved ones. This ritual profoundly conveys the Dongba culture’s respect for nature and spirituality.
Agricultural Heritage Experience: Journey Through the “Fields of the Immortals”
At 2:00 PM, under the guidance of Naxi elders, visitors embark on a journey through the “Fields of the Immortals.” Baishuitai’s unique geological formations create a cascade of terraces resembling a sacred farming landscape. Here, one can use ancient farming tools to experience plowing, sowing, and other traditional agricultural activities, embracing the simplicity and charm of rural life. Surrounding exhibits showcase local farming customs and agricultural products, providing a deeper understanding of the region’s rich heritage.
Cultural and Creative Market: Discover Unique Treasures
After an immersive heritage experience, take a stroll through the cultural and creative market, a true treasure trove. Handcrafted Tibetan goods and highland specialty products fill the stalls. Whether choosing a unique souvenir for a friend or a keepsake for oneself, there’s something for everyone. The market’s setup exudes an Instagram-worthy aesthetic, making every snapshot a masterpiece. Bring ample storage space because every corner is worth capturing. Some stalls even allow bargaining—who knows, you might snag a fantastic deal on your favorite items!
The Grand Dongba Cultural Performance: A Spectacular Audio-Visual Feast
On the afternoon of March 7, an unmissable grand performance awaits. The “Chaobaishui” cultural performance takes center stage, electrifying the atmosphere. Following opening speeches, the official unveiling of Baishuitai as a 4A Scenic Area marks a significant milestone in its development. The micro-film production launch ceremony introduces mystery guests, heightening anticipation.
The highlight is the mesmerizing ethnic dance and music showcase, vividly portraying Dongba culture. The reenactment of “The Sacred Path of Dongba” (东巴神路图) by the dance troupe is particularly breathtaking, transporting the audience into the ancient Dongba world. The winners of the competition also get their moment in the spotlight, with performances rivaling professional productions like “Dynamic Yunnan” (云南映象). The skill and passion of the performers earn waves of applause from the audience.
Travel Tips
- Clothing Preparation: Baishuitai experiences significant temperature fluctuations between day and night. Be sure to bring a down vest or warm clothing to stay comfortable, especially during chilly mornings and evenings.
- Payment Methods: While most market stalls accept electronic payments, carrying some cash is advisable. Certain areas may have weak network signals, making cash transactions more convenient.
- Footwear Selection: The calcium-rich pools at Baishuitai can be slippery, so wear non-slip shoes to ensure safe exploration.
- Transportation Guide: If driving, plan your route in advance. Alternatively, take a direct bus from Lijiang, which takes approximately three hours. Since no public transportation reaches Baishuitai directly, these two options are the most convenient. If time permits, consider exploring nearby attractions, such as the world-renowned hiking destination, Tiger Leaping Gorge (虎跳峡), to witness nature’s awe-inspiring power.
As the prayer flags flutter in the spring breeze and the sacred drums awaken the sleeping snow mountains, this March, embark on a journey to Baishuitai in Shangri-La. Immerse yourself in a cultural adventure spanning centuries, find peace and inspiration in Dongba traditions and intangible heritage, and create unforgettable travel memories.
The breathtaking Baishuitai terraces represent both natural wonder and spiritual birthplace. Situated in Baidi Village (白地村), Shangri-La County (香格里拉县), this three-square-kilometer sinter terrace formation – China’s largest – was created by calcium carbonate deposits from mountain springs. The Naxi (纳西族) call it “growing flower,” where crystal waters cascade down Haba Snow Mountain (哈巴雪山), forming what locals reverently call “a field left by fairies.”
Birthplace of Dongba Religion (东巴教)
This sacred site witnessed the dawn of Naxi civilization:
- First Saint Dingbashiluo (丁巴什罗): The religion’s founder abandoned his Tibetan return journey upon seeing Baishuitai’s beauty, establishing his missionary base here
- Second Saint Ahmingshiluo (阿明什罗): Systematized Dongba pictographs and scriptures at this holy ground
- Doctrinal Significance: White sinter symbolizes purity in Dongba theology, making pilgrimage essential for true believers
Living Cultural Traditions
Each lunar February 8th, Naxi people celebrate their most vibrant festival:
- Wearing ceremonial attire, they circle the terraces singing and dancing
- Perform sacred rituals honoring the land’s divine creation myth
- Commemorate their transition from nomadic to agricultural life
Geological Marvel
The terraces demonstrate nature’s artistry:
- Spring water from Haba Snow Mountain deposits crystallized sodium carbonate
- Forms intricate marble-like formations across three terraced levels
- Creates stunning white mineral contrasts against emerald mountains
Spiritual Legacy
Baishuitai remains central to Naxi identity as:
- The holy land where Dongba scriptures were perfected
- A living model of the Creator’s agricultural design
- The physical manifestation of their spiritual connection to nature
This UNESCO-recognized site continues to inspire awe as both geological phenomenon and cultural touchstone, where every ripple in the sinter tells the story of a civilization’s dawn.
Yubeng Village, with its serene and remote setting, is not a place that offers typical tourist entertainment such as nightclubs, cinemas, or shopping malls. However, its charm lies in its natural beauty, traditional Tibetan culture, and the opportunity to immerse oneself in outdoor activities and spiritual experiences. Here’s a look at the unique types of entertainment and activities that you can enjoy while visiting Yubeng Village:
1. Trekking and Nature Exploration
Yubeng Village is primarily a destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, and the surrounding landscape offers ample opportunities for trekking, exploration, and photography.
Popular Hikes:
- Sacred Waterfall Trek: A hike to the Sacred Waterfall, which is an important spiritual site for the local Tibetan community. The falls are majestic and surrounded by lush wilderness, creating a tranquil atmosphere.
- Glacier Lake Hike: A challenging yet rewarding trek to the stunning Glacier Lake, offering pristine views of snow-capped peaks and a serene alpine lake.
- Yubeng Village Trails: There are numerous trails around the village, perfect for short hikes to explore the local flora, fauna, and beautiful landscapes.
Activities:
- Photography: With its dramatic mountain views, cascading waterfalls, and traditional Tibetan villages, Yubeng is a photographer’s paradise. Capture the essence of the Himalayas and the Tibetan way of life.
- Birdwatching: The area is rich in biodiversity, and birdwatchers can enjoy spotting a variety of bird species that inhabit the forests and alpine meadows.
2. Cultural Immersion
A significant part of the “entertainment” in Yubeng Village comes from immersing yourself in the local Tibetan culture, which is rich in tradition, spirituality, and community. You’ll find that the villagers’ way of life is closely tied to nature, and participating in cultural activities can be an enriching experience.
Cultural Experiences:
- Tibetan Buddhism: Visit local monasteries or Tibetan shrines where you can learn about Tibetan Buddhism and even participate in traditional prayers or rituals. Many visitors enjoy receiving blessings from the monks.
- Tibetan Music and Dance: While not a frequent event, if you’re lucky, you might get the chance to enjoy traditional Tibetan music or dance in the evenings when locals gather to celebrate or during special festivals.
- Interaction with Locals: The warm and welcoming villagers offer a glimpse into their way of life. You can engage with the locals to learn about their traditions, such as the making of Tibetan handicrafts, including thangkas (Tibetan religious paintings), prayer flags, and woven items.
3. Spiritual Experiences
Yubeng is a deeply spiritual place, with its Tibetan Buddhist roots running through every aspect of village life. Many travelers come to Yubeng for its peaceful ambiance and spiritual rejuvenation.
Spiritual Activities:
- Meditation: Yubeng’s peaceful and secluded environment is perfect for self-reflection and meditation. Whether you choose to meditate by the Sacred Waterfall or beside the serene Glacier Lake, the calm surroundings encourage mindfulness and inner peace.
- Pilgrimage Trails: Yubeng is a destination for Tibetan Buddhist pilgrims. Many come here to visit sacred sites like the Sacred Waterfall, Glacier Lake, and the surrounding mountains, believing them to hold spiritual significance. You can join pilgrims in their journey and gain insights into their practices.
- Prayer Flags and Rituals: The prayer flags that flutter in the wind throughout the village and along the trekking routes are central to Tibetan culture. You can participate in the ritual of hanging prayer flags or making offerings at shrines for blessings of health, peace, and prosperity.
4. Stargazing
Due to its remote location and the absence of light pollution, Yubeng offers excellent opportunities for stargazing. On clear nights, you can gaze at the stars, observe constellations, and witness the Milky Way stretching across the sky. The Meili Snow Mountains, with their snowy peaks, create a stunning backdrop for the night sky, making it a memorable experience for nature lovers and astronomy enthusiasts alike.
5. Traditional Tibetan Cuisine
While in Yubeng, you can enjoy the rich flavors of Tibetan cuisine. Sharing a meal with the locals or in guesthouses is an important cultural experience.
Food Experiences:
- Momos: Tibetan dumplings filled with meat or vegetables, often served with spicy dipping sauce.
- Thukpa: A hearty noodle soup, often made with yak meat or vegetables.
- Tsampa: A traditional Tibetan dish made from roasted barley flour, commonly served with yak butter tea.
- Yak Butter Tea: A traditional Tibetan drink made with butter, tea, and salt. It’s an important part of Tibetan culture and is a great way to warm up in the cold mountain air.
6. Festivals and Celebrations
If you visit during a local festival or religious celebration, you might be treated to traditional dances, music, and rituals that are not commonly seen in other parts of China. Tibetan festivals, such as Losar (Tibetan New Year), Saga Dawa (celebrating Buddha’s life), and Chhewa (a harvest festival), offer a unique opportunity to witness the rich cultural heritage of the Tibetan people.
During these events, locals gather to perform traditional dances and rituals. Visitors who are present during these times can join in the celebrations or observe the vibrant performances that reflect Tibetan spiritual and cultural practices.
7. Horseback Riding
As Yubeng is only accessible by foot or horseback, horseback riding is an essential part of the local way of life. If you prefer a less strenuous way to explore the area, you can take a horseback ride around the village or to nearby scenic spots. It’s also a great way to experience the Tibetan nomadic lifestyle and interact with the local herders.
While Yubeng Village does not offer typical entertainment like cities or tourist resorts, the village provides an immersive experience in nature, culture, and spirituality. The remote setting, breathtaking landscapes, and welcoming local community make Yubeng a haven for those seeking adventure, peace, and a deeper connection with Tibetan traditions. Whether you’re trekking, stargazing, experiencing Tibetan culture, or simply relaxing in the tranquil environment, Yubeng Village offers entertainment in the form of unique and enriching experiences.
Deqin is a Tibetan community in northwestern Yunnan known for its Tibetan language education. In 2005, PCD began supporting the Kawagebo Cultural Society in organising a Tibetan literacy class for villagers in Hongpo and Jiangpo villages. In addition to Tibetan literacy, Tibetan traditional folktales, songs and classic scripts are also taught. Many feel inspired and enlightened now that they are able to master their own language.
“I come every day. I know how to write my own name in Tibetan now. And I understand the world more when I read Tibetan,” said Ersong Quzhu. Her fellow villager Zaxi echoed, “Our tradition is getting weaker and weaker. Before we only watched the television. Now we study our tradition. We talk and everyone in the family is very happy.” Many said that they were awakened when they studied the teachings of Buddhism written in Tibetan. Participants appreciated the Tibetan class because it enabled them to document words of the Xianzi, the traditional chants and lyrics of folksongs for future generations.
Wisdom from the Xianzi
The Kawagebo Cultural Society has been very active in promoting traditional Xianzi chants. Through the Xianzi, people connect to Tibetan history, culture and ethics, and particularly the value of respecting nature. For fear that this traditional genre will disappear, some young members of the Kawagebo Cultural Society organised Xianzi training workshops and competitions among villages in Deqin County. The activities were very well received by Tibetan communities in all the villages. It is now one of the best and the most popular activities in Deqin. In 2007, the first Xianzi festival was held in Hongpo Village. People came in their beautiful new costumes from different villages to dance and chant Xianzi.
Aside from the Tibetan language and Xianzi, Tibetan architecture is another treasure of traditional Tibetan culture. Each Tibetan house is a small world that co-exists in harmony with the snow-capped holy Kawagebo Mountain. But in the wake of economic development, many houses in Deqin have departed from the traditional design and principles that are in harmony with nature. In 2006, PCD supported the training of construction carpenters from Mingyong and Jiabi villages in modern as well as traditional architecture. We also supported their initiatives to put ideas into action, to enhance appreciation of Tibetan architectural traditions and community culture. Results have been mixed as issues of investment, techniques and economic impacts were considered. The plan for the next endeavour is to concentrate efforts on nurturing the capacity of local architects in traditional and ecologically friendly construction.
Deqin County Entertainment
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