Yala Snow Mountain: The Shining Jewel on the Crown of Tibet

Yala Snow Mountain, known in Tibetan as "Xiaxue Yalaga Bo," means the Eastern White Yak Mountain. This 5,820-meter-high snow peak is located in Ganzi Prefecture, Sichuan, and is the second highest peak in the Daxue Mountain range. Its snow-capped summit shines brilliantly under the sun, like a crown on the Kham Plateau that never melts. Starting from Xinduqiao, the Tibetan villages, prayer flags, and streams along the way form a moving painting. As you approach the scenic area, Yala Snow Mountain suddenly comes into view—the pyramid-shaped mountain stands majestically, with ridges on both sides like outstretched arms. Glaciers cascade down from the summit, glowing with a deep blue sheen under the sunlight. Within the scenic area, three distinctive valleys open their arms to visitors. Youcuo Lake is the most dazzling jewel among them. This alpine lake at 4,000 meters elevation reflects the snow mountain’s graceful image. In spring and summer, rhododendrons bloom by the lakeside, creating a charming contrast with the snow-capped peaks and clear waters. Standing by the lake, you can feel the breath of the snow mountain—a shock that reaches straight to the soul. Hiking is the best way to get close to Yala. Walking slowly along the wooden plank path, every step adjusts your breath, every step brings you closer to paradise. Under the plateau sun, the snow mountain seems within reach, yet it maintains a sacred distance. Prayer flags flutter in the wind, a tribute from generations of Tibetan people living here to the sacred mountain. The beauty of Yala Snow Mountain lies not only in its height but also in the soul it bestows upon this land. When the sunset gilds the snowy peak and stars twinkle atop the mountain, you will understand why this snow mountain is one of the four sacred mountains recorded in the Epic of King Gesar. Here, you are not just admiring a landscape; you are reading an epic written in ice and snow. Yala Snow Mountain awaits every soul longing to converse with heaven and earth.