Top Famous Mountains and Peaks in Yunnan Province

Yunnan’s 16 highest peaks—unmissable beauty for outdoor enthusiasts

Climbing the first peak of central Yunnan, Xuelinghuo Peak (雪岭火峰), to touch the sea of clouds and the Heavenly Lake, witness the silver pagoda transform into a red veil at the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Glacier Museum (玉龙雪山冰川博物馆), and traverse the sacred land of Haba Snow Mountain (哈巴雪山) amidst the Three Parallel Rivers (三江并流). At the peak of Dagu Niuzhai (大牯牛寨), enjoy the spring flowers and autumn snow, where every step breaks through the seasonal cycle at over 3,000 meters above sea level. The 16 sacred mountains of Yunnan invite you to write your own epic tale, with snow-covered cliffs, rhododendron seas, and the ancient Tea Horse Road (茶马古道).

Yunnan, known as the homeland of mountains and waters, attracts outdoor enthusiasts with its unique terrain. With 94% of the land occupied by mountains, it provides a home for Yunnan’s 46 million residents. As a result, the people are often affectionately referred to as “mountain people.” For those passionate about climbing, Yunnan is truly a paradise. With its towering peaks, here are the 16 highest and most beautiful mountains in Yunnan, where the power of nature and the thrill of outdoor adventure combine.

1. Xuelinghuo Peak (雪岭火峰) – The majestic first peak of central Yunnan
   Located in the northeastern part of Yunnan, Xuelinghuo Peak stands as the highest point in central Yunnan. With an altitude of over 4,000 meters, its steep cliffs, rare flora and fauna, and striking glacial landscapes make it a must-see for any climber. The area is known for its beautiful rhododendron fields, high-altitude lakes, and spectacular waterfalls.

2. Xuebang Mountain (雪邦山) – The ancestor of all mountains in Yunnan
   Xuebang Mountain, stretching for hundreds of miles, has a main peak reaching 4,240 meters. It is revered as the “ancestor of Yunnan’s mountains” due to its grandeur and rich cultural history. As part of the Three Parallel Rivers scenic area, it showcases spectacular natural beauty and profound cultural significance.

3. Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (玉龙雪山) – The modern glacier museum
   Located in Lijiang, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain rises to 5,596 meters, making it the southernmost snow mountain in the Northern Hemisphere. Known for its unique “spring snow” landscape, it attracts visitors with its glaciers, alpine lakes, and stunning seasonal changes.

4. Huazhuliangzi Tea Mountain (滑竹梁子茶山) – The peak of tea culture in Xishuangbanna
   Situated in Xishuangbanna, this mountain is famous for its wild tea trees and rich tea culture. At an altitude of 2,429 meters, it offers breathtaking views of the tea plantations and surrounding natural landscapes.

5. Haba Snow Mountain (哈巴雪山) – The “golden flower” of nature
   Haba Snow Mountain, located in Shangri-La, rises to 5,396 meters. Known for its stunning glaciers and diverse ecosystems, it holds a sacred place in the Three Parallel Rivers World Heritage Area.

6. Maotou Peak (猫头峰) – The jewel of Wuliang Mountain
   The highest peak of Wuliang Mountain at 3,306 meters, Maotou Peak is renowned for its unique shape and scenic beauty, particularly its rhododendron bloom in spring.

7. Danaozi Peak (大脑子峰) – The sacred icy spine of Wuliang Mountain
   Nestled in the Wuliang Mountain Nature Reserve, this peak offers pristine natural landscapes and an air of mystery, attracting climbers and explorers alike.

8. Daxueguo Mountain (大雪锅山) – The great snow kettle of Ailao
   With an elevation of 3,137 meters, Daxueguo Mountain stands out for its striking snow-capped summit, wild tea trees, and rare wildlife.

9. Baicao Ridge (百草岭) – The peak of Chuxiong
   Standing at 3,657 meters, Baicao Ridge is a natural wonder in Chuxiong, offering expansive meadows, ancient forests, and vibrant flowers.

10. Dagu Niuzhai (大牯牛寨) – A place of four seasons
    Located in the eastern part of Yunnan, this mountain offers a unique “four seasons in one mountain” experience, with spring flowers, summer greenery, autumn snow, and winter fog.

11. Gawagapu Peak (嘎瓦嘎普峰) – The majestic crown of Gaoligong Mountain
    At an altitude of 5,128 meters, this peak in Gaoligong Mountain is known for its year-round snow and stunning glaciers, revered by local indigenous groups.

12. Daniang Mountain (大娘山) – The “Little Lushan” of western Yunnan
    Located at 3,404 meters, Daniang Mountain offers scenic views and ancient forests, including rare plant species.

13. Buzhu Mountain (薄竹山) – The “first peak” of southeastern Yunnan
    Known for its rich ecological environment and rare plant species, Buzhu Mountain offers stunning views and diverse flora and fauna at its 3,000-meter summit.

14. Yaoshan (药山) – A natural treasure trove of plants and animals
    Located in Qiaojia County, Yaoshan is known for its rich medicinal plant resources and diverse species, attracting researchers and nature lovers.

15. Yongde Daxue Mountain (永德大雪山) – A protected natural haven
    Located in the Yunnan Province, this mountain offers rare species and rich biodiversity, making it a favorite for eco-tourism and wildlife exploration.

16. Xilong Mountain (西隆山) – A genetic treasure trove of species
    Located in the Xilong Mountain Nature Reserve, this area boasts a rich diversity of rare plants and animals, offering unique ecological experiences for visitors.

Each of these peaks, from the snow-covered cliffs to the wildflower-filled meadows, tells its own story of nature’s majesty and the thrill of outdoor adventure in Yunnan.