5 Days Meili Snow Mountain and Yubeng Village Hiking Tour from Shangri-La

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.

Introduction

Set out on an incredible 5-day journey that takes you through the stunning landscapes of Meili Snow Mountain and the charming Yubeng Village. Located in the heart of Yunnan Province, this hiking tour beautifully blends spectacular natural beauty with a rich cultural heritage and hands-on experiences. From majestic, snow-covered peaks to verdant valleys, you will be enchanted by the breathtaking scenery and the hospitality of the local people. This expedition is tailored for those who seek adventure, offering both physical challenges and peaceful moments amidst nature.

Highlights:

  • Stunning Views of Meili Snow Mountain: Trek among some of the highest peaks in Yunnan, including the majestic Meili Snow Mountain, renowned for its natural beauty and spiritual significance. Capture unforgettable photos as you witness sunrises and sunsets illuminating the mountain ranges.
  • Exploration of Yubeng Village: Experience the charm of Yubeng Village, a remote Tibetan settlement surrounded by stunning landscapes. Engage with the friendly locals, learn about their way of life, and discover the traditions that have been preserved for generations.
  • Diverse Hiking Trails: Hike along varied trails that offer a mix of challenging terrains and leisurely paths, suitable for different fitness levels. Each hike promises breathtaking panoramas, alpine meadows, and serene rivers.
  • Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Naxi and Tibetan peoples. Visit ancient temples, participate in local customs, and enjoy traditional meals that reflect the region’s culinary heritage.
  • Natural Hot Springs: Relish moments of relaxation in the natural hot springs after a day of trekking, rejuvenating both body and spirit in the healing waters surrounded by nature.
  • Photography Opportunities: Capture the breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife that inhabit the region. With its diverse ecosystem, the Meili area offers endless opportunities for stunning photography.

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

Day 1 Shangri-La – Deqin -Feilaisi

Sightseeing and Activities:Nixi Pottery Village, Dongzhulin Monastery, the First Bend of Jinsha River, Baima Snow Mountain, Meili Snow Mountain
Accommodation: Feilaisi
Meals: Breakfast

  • 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.”

Day 2 Feilaisi-Upper Yubeng Village

Sightseeing and Activities: the sunrise view of Meili Snow Mountain, Yubeng Village
Accommodation: Upper Yubeng Village
Meals: Breakfast

  • Morning Glory at Sunrise
    • As dawn breaks, witness the striking golden hues illuminating the mountain’s snow-capped peak, provided the weather holds up. This breathtaking sight sets the tone for an adventurous day ahead.
  • Journey to Yubeng Village
    • After enjoying a hearty breakfast, we will drive alongside the Mekong River to reach the trailhead. From there, our hike begins as we ascend over a mountain pass toward Yubeng. Expect to spend about 5 to 7 hours on the trail, navigating several steep sections along the way, and we will take a moment to enjoy a scenic picnic lunch. Upon our arrival in Yubeng Village, we will gather for dinner in a traditional Tibetan living room. The evening will be filled with joy as we engage in lively singing and dancing with the local villagers, before settling in for an overnight stay in Yubeng.

Day 3 Upper Yubeng Village- Cuoka Sacred Ice Lake-Upper Yubeng Village​

Sightseeing and Activities:the sunrise and sunset of the Mt. Kawagebo Glacier, Binghu Ice Lake
Accommodation: Upper Yubeng Village
Meals: Breakfast,

  • 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.

Day 5 Yubeng-Ninong-Feilaisi-Shangri-La

Sightseeing and Activities:Ninong Grand Canyon ,Yubeng Village,Mekong River Grand Canyon
Accommodation: Shangri-La
Meals: Breakfast

Set off very early for the long, but amazing walk along the least traveled path of Yubeng, from Lower Yubeng Village back to Xidang, via Ninong Canyon. Drive back to Shangri-La in the afternoon.

Recommended Hotels

Destination 5 Star 4 Star 3 Star Hostels
Yubeng / / / Yujian Meili Hostel
Feilaisi Songtsam Feilaisi Resort Guanjing Tiantang Hotel Mingzhu Hotel Local Hostel

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.