The Pilgrimage of Kawa Karpo Kora in Deqin County, Diqing

Meili Snow Mountain (梅里雪山) is located in the western part of Deqen County (德钦县), Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture (迪庆藏族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省). Its main peak, Kawagarbo (卡瓦格博), stands at 6,740 meters above sea level, making it the highest peak in Yunnan and the foremost sacred mountain in Tibetan Buddhism. The pilgrimage route encircles Meili Snow Mountain (梅里雪山), spanning multiple counties in Yunnan and Tibet (西藏).

Pilgrimage Festival Overview

The Pilgrimage Festival (转山节) is a religious activity prevalent in Tibetan regions. Devotees hike to sacred sites around the mountain to express reverence. Tibetan Buddhism believes that “circumambulating the sacred mountain once cleanses sins of a lifetime; ten times frees one from the suffering of reincarnation; a hundred times leads to enlightenment.” Combining hiking and pilgrimage culture, the Meili Snow Mountain Pilgrimage Festival (梅里雪山转山节) has become a highlight of the region.

Festival Dates

The Meili Snow Mountain Pilgrimage Festival (梅里雪山转山节) is usually held from October to November annually, when the weather is clear, the scenery breathtaking, and the “Golden Mountain Sunlit” (日照金山) phenomenon is most visible. For example, the 2023 festival took place from November 13 to 19.

Weather & Best Time to Visit

The best time for the pilgrimage is from May to November, when the climate is pleasant and rainfall moderate. October to November is ideal for witnessing the “Golden Mountain Sunlit” (日照金山), with crisp autumn air and vibrant colors.

Recommended Attractions

  • Feilai Temple (飞来寺): The best spot to view the “Golden Mountain Sunlit” (日照金山).
  • Yubeng Village (雨崩村): A key stop on the pilgrimage route, offering stunning landscapes and authentic Tibetan culture.
  • Sacred Waterfall (神瀑): A holy site in Tibetan tradition.

Suggested Duration for Each Destination

  • Feilai Temple (飞来寺): 1 day.
  • Yubeng Village (雨崩村): 2 days.
  • Sacred Waterfall (神瀑): 1 day.

Transportation

  • Getting There: From Lijiang (丽江), take a long-distance bus to Feilai Temple (飞来寺), Deqen County (德钦县) (~350 km, ~6 hours).
  • Return: Travel back from Deqen County (德钦县) to Lijiang (丽江).

Food

Enjoy Tibetan specialties along the way, such as butter tea (酥油茶), tsampa (糌粑), and barley wine (青稞酒).

Shopping

Purchase local handicrafts, thangka paintings (唐卡), and other souvenirs.

Accommodation

Simple guesthouses and campsites are available. Yubeng Village (雨崩村) has Tibetan-style lodges, though facilities are basic.

Travel Tips

  • Respect local religious customs.
  • Protect the environment—avoid littering.
  • The plateau has strong UV radiation—bring sunscreen.
  • Carry proper hiking gear: backpack, trekking poles, waterproof shoes, etc.

Pilgrimage Itinerary

Day 1: Gather in Lijiang (丽江), check into a hotel.
Day 2: Depart Lijiang (丽江) for Feilai Temple (飞来寺), passing Xiaozhongdian (小中甸) and Moon Bend (月亮湾).
Day 3: Watch the “Golden Mountain Sunlit” (日照金山) at Feilai Temple (飞来寺), hike to Yubeng Village (雨崩村).
Day 4: Trek from Yubeng Village (雨崩村) to Xiaonong Base Camp (笑农大本营) and Ice Lake (冰湖).
Day 5: Hike from Yubeng Village (雨崩村) to Sacred Waterfall (神瀑).
Day 6: Depart Yubeng Village (雨崩村), return to Shangri-La (香格里拉) via Ninong Gorge (尼农峡谷).
Day 7: Free time in Shangri-La (香格里拉), return to Lijiang (丽江).

The Meili Snow Mountain Pilgrimage Festival (梅里雪山转山节) is a challenging yet meaningful journey. The breathtaking scenery and profound religious culture will leave unforgettable memories. May your trip be rewarding and safe.