Embark on an unforgettable 5-day adventure exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Meili Snow Mountain and the picturesque Yubeng Village. Nestled in the heart of Yunnan Province, this hiking tour offers a unique combination of stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and immersive experiences. From towering snow-capped peaks to lush valleys, prepare to be captivated by the awe-inspiring scenery and the warmth of the local communities. This journey is designed for adventurous spirits seeking both physical challenges and serene moments in nature.

Brief Itinerary

• Day 1: Shangri-La – Deqin -Feilaisi
• Day 2: Feilaisi-Yubeng Village
• Day 3: Yubeng Village- Cuoka Lake-Yubeng Village
• Day 4: Yubeng Village-Shenpu Waterfalls-Yubeng Village
• Day 5: Yubeng Village-Shangri-La

Google Map

Detailed Itinerary

• Morning Journey to Deqin County
  • In the early hours, embark on a 4 to 5-hour drive to Deqin County, situated at an altitude of 3,400 meters and 187 kilometers from Shangri-La.
  • The route is lined with remarkable scenery, featuring a variety of trees, flowing streams in the valleys, fluttering prayer flags, stupas, and traditional Tibetan villages.
  • After just half an hour of driving from Shangri-La, you’ll be greeted by a sweeping view of Naxi Pottery Village.
  • As you descend into the river valley, the picturesque landscapes continue along the Jinsha River to Benzilan Town, where you will stop for lunch.
• Visit to Dongzhulin Monastery
  • Following lunch, head uphill to the Dongzhulin Monastery, located in Shusong Village within the Benzilan District of Deqin County, approximately 105 kilometers from Zhongdian County.
  • The Yunnan-Tibet Road conveniently runs behind the monastery, allowing easy access. Established in 1667 during the sixth year of the Kangxi reign in the Qing Dynasty, this monastery is steeped in history.
  • Next, explore the First Bend of the Jinsha River, also known as Moon Bend, which marks the boundary between Sichuan and Yunnan. Unlike the First Bend of the Yangtze River in Lijiang City, where the river’s direction dramatically changes, the Moon Bend in Benzilan is a spectacular bend nestled among the mountains, showcasing stunning scenery.
• Scenic Views in Feilaisi
  • As you make your way toward the Baimang Snow Mountain Nature Reserve, keep an eye out for Baima Snow Mountain, visible on clear days. You’ll reach an elevation of 4,292 meters as you pass the highest point of the day at 156 kilometers. In the late afternoon, arrive in Feilaisi, where you can enjoy a beautiful sunset view of Meili Snow Mountain from the Sightseeing Platform. Here, you’ll have the chance to admire the 13 white pagodas, symbolizing the legendary 13 peaks of Meili Snow Mountain, each towering over 6,000 meters (19,685 feet) above sea level and collectively referred to as the “Prince’s 13 Peaks.”

• Unforgettable Sunrise at Mt. Kawagebo Glacier
  • Begin your adventure by soaking in the mesmerizing sunrise over Mt. Kawagebo Glacier right from your guesthouse. Once the morning light bathes the landscape, set off for an exhilarating hike up to Binghu Ice Lake, nestled within the Meili Snow Mountain range.
• Immersed in Nature’s Splendor
  • As you traverse the original forests starting from Yubeng Village, keep an eye out for horses and yaks, and with a bit of luck, you may even spot some wildlife along the way.
  • A stunning river flows from Glacier Park, providing a picturesque companion for your journey. As you stroll beside this river, you’ll cross charming wooden bridges and pass through areas adorned with spruce trees, all while enjoying breathtaking views of the majestic Mt. Kawagebo Glacier.
• Arrival at the Ice Lake
  • Your trek eventually leads you to the Ice Lake, beautifully situated at the base of the glacier. After absorbing the incredible scenery, start your descent back to Yubeng Village in the late afternoon, where you can witness the captivating sunset over Kawagebo Peak.
  • The return journey will take around 3 to 4 hours. Please note that this day-long excursion is intended for experienced hikers, and prior to June, the upper plateau is often blanketed in snow.

Day 4 Upper Yubeng Village-Shenpu Waterfalls – Upper Yubeng Village

Sightseeing and Activities: The Sacred Waterfall, Lower Yubeng Village
Accommodation: Upper Yubeng Village
Meals: Breakfast

• Breakfast with a View of Mt. Kawagebo
  • This morning, you will savor breakfast while taking in the stunning views of Mt. Kawagebo, weather permitting. After your meal, you’ll embark on a hike to the Yubeng Waterfall, enjoying a picnic lunch along the way. The round trip will take approximately 5 to 6 hours and involves a steep ascent.
• Exploring Sacred Sites and Local Culture
  • During our hike, we will also have the opportunity to visit sacred locations, including a local Tibetan Buddhist temple. Afterward, we shall return to the village, where in the late afternoon, you can indulge in traditional Dri (female yak) butter tea with a local farmer in Upper Yubeng Village. This is a wonderful chance to engage in conversation about the local way of life.
  • You will stay overnight at Yubeng Village, with accommodations arranged at your own local guesthouse.
• The Enchanting Sacred Waterfall
  • The Sacred Waterfall, formed by the melting snow from Meili Snow Mountain, is a breathtaking sight. The landscape surrounding the waterfall shifts with the seasons; during spring and summer, an abundance of melting snow increases the waterfall’s flow, creating a spectacular display, while at other times, a steady stream descends the mountainside.
  • For the local Tibetan people, this area is considered holy, and they often bathe under the Sacred Waterfall as a means to purify their souls. According to Tibetan tradition, one can walk around the waterfall in a clockwise direction three times to pray for good fortune.

Service Included:

• Admission fees for all of the sightseeing spots listed in the itinerary;
• Meals as listed in the itinerary;
• Hotels as listed in the itinerary;
• Private Chinese-speaking tour guide;
• Private vehicle for transfers & sightseeing with skilled driver;
• Service charge & government taxes;
• Luggage transfers between airports and hotels.

Service Excluded:

• Any arrival and departure international airfares or train tickets;
• Chinese visa fees;
• Excess baggage charged by Airlines;
• Single room supplement;
• Tips to guides and drivers;
• Personal expenses and gratuities to service staff;
• Personal travel accident insurance;
• All optional programs.

Travel Tips:

• Visitors are advised to always carry changes of clothing due to the large variations in temperature between day and night.
• The climate is relatively dry, so drink more water every day.
• Protecting oneself from strong UV radiation at high altitude.
• Protecting oneself from altitude sickness. Lessen the effects of altitude sickness, avoid strenuous exercise and have plenty of rest.
• Respect local customs , habits, and religious beliefs.
• Situated on the northern edge of the tropical zone, Xishuangbanna area is hot, humid and rainy.
• Do not forget to take an umbrella or a raincoat when go out.
• When take photos, please pay attention to your safety, do not shoot in dangerous areas.