Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

Scenic Spot Introduction

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is the southernmost glacier in the northern hemisphere. Its main peak, Shanzi Dou, stands at an elevation of 5596 meters and is permanently snow-capped, making it a holy mountain for the Naxi people. The scenic area includes attractions such as Glacier Park, Spruce Meadow, and Blue Moon Valley, offering a comprehensive experience of glaciers, forests, and lakes.

Located on the southeastern edge of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and the southern section of the Hengduan Mountains, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is one of the highest peaks in the range. The mountain is composed of 13 snow peaks, stretching 35 kilometers from north to south and 13 kilometers from east to west, covering a total area of 960 square kilometers. It preserves a complete vertical natural zone spectrum, with 7 distinct vegetative zones ranging from the dry and hot valley at 2400 meters above sea level to the glacier at 5596 meters. This makes it a natural laboratory for studying alpine ecosystems.

As a sacred mountain of the Naxi people, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain holds a significant place in local culture. According to Naxi Dongba scriptures, the mountain is the incarnation of the “God of Sanduo” and serves as the protective deity of the Naxi people. Every year on the eighth day of the second lunar month, a grand “Sanduo Festival” is held to honor this deity. The ancient Dongba cultural relics preserved at Dongba Valley at the foot of the mountain provide an important window into Naxi culture.

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is rich in flora and fauna. Over 2000 plant species thrive here, including rare and endangered species like Yunnan Chinese yew and Lijiang Chinese hemlock. The area is also home to a diverse array of animals, including the endangered Yunnan snub-nosed monkey and snow leopard. Several alpine lakes, such as Blue Moon Valley and Baishui River, dot the landscape, their crystal-clear waters reflecting the beauty of the snow-capped mountains, creating a scenic wonderland.

景点介绍

Visiting Jade Dragon Snow Mountain offers a diverse landscape experience: feel the grandeur of the icy snow world in Glacier Park, appreciate the tranquility of the virgin forest in Spruce Meadow, and enjoy the beauty of alpine lakes in Blue Moon Valley. The scenic area also features multiple viewing platforms, providing a comprehensive view of the snow-capped mountains. Visitors are advised to prepare for high altitude sickness, arrange their visiting schedule properly, and fully immerse themselves in the unique charm of this sacred mountain.

必游景点

Must-see Attractions

1. Glacier Park

   • Glacier Viewing
   • Snow Mountain Sunshine
   • Suggested Visiting Time: 120 minutes

2. Spruce Meadow

   • Virgin Forest
   • Alpine Meadow
   • Suggested Visiting Time: 90 minutes

3. Blue Moon Valley

   • Baishui River
   • Blue Moon Lake
   • Suggested Visiting Time: 90 minutes

4. Ganhaizi

   • Wetland Park
   • Snow Mountain Reflection
   • Suggested Visiting Time: 60 minutes

参观建议

Visiting Suggestions

1. Best Route

   • Morning: Glacier Park
   • Noon: Spruce Meadow
   • Afternoon: Blue Moon Valley, Ganhaizi

2. Visiting Schedule

   • Early rise for sunshine viewing
   • Avoid noon time
   • Take adequate rest

3. Practical Tips

   • Keep warm and protected from cold
   • Prepare for altitude sickness
   • Carry an oxygen tank

交通指南

Transportation Guide

• Airplane: Lijiang Sanyi Airport
• Bus: Lijiang Passenger Transport Station
• Shuttle Bus: Old Town of Lijiang
• Self-drive: Approximately 1 hour from Lijiang

周边美食推荐

Recommended Local Delicacies

1. Snow Mountain Free-range Chicken
2. Matsutake Hot Pot
3. Naxi Cuisine
4. Wild Mushrooms

特别提醒

Special Reminders

1. Prepare for altitude sickness
2. Keep warm and stay protected from the cold
3. Carry an oxygen tank
4. Sun protection is essential
5. Act within your limits
6. Bring a good camera
7. Ideal for photography
8. Book tickets ahead of time.