Life is a vast wilderness | A trip to Meili Snow Mountain is a must

1. Detailed Hiking Routes in Yubeng Route 1: Xidang Hot Spring → Yubeng Upper Village → Ice Lake → Sacred Waterfall → Ninong Canyon Total distance: Approx. 12–18 km, 6–8 hrs one way Difficulty: ★★★☆ (Moderate to challenging, requires a certain level of fitness) Best time to visit: October to May of the following year (stunning snow scenery), June to September (wildflowers everywhere) Cost: Entry ticket CNY 60 + Horse riding CNY 300–500 (one-way horse ride to Sacred Waterfall) Route 2: Yubeng Upper Village → Ice Lake → Sacred Waterfall → Yubeng Lower Village → Ninong Canyon Highlight: The primeval forest and blue river of Ninong Canyon Note: There is a checkpoint at the entrance of Ninong Village, where an entry ticket of CNY 15 is required. 2. Photography and Weather Tips Golden photo spots: Feilai Temple Viewing Platform: Best for sunrise/sunset, arrive early to secure a spot. Ice Lake: Blue ice in winter + sunrise glow on the golden mountain, it is recommended to arrive before 10:00 am. Ninong Canyon: Best to shoot in the afternoon with the sun behind you, when the river's color is most vibrant. Weather app: "Caiyun Weather" to check real-time precipitation probability in Shangri-La/Deqin. Meili Snow Mountain experiences frequent showers, with a higher probability of sunny days in winter than in summer. 3. Unique Experiences Deqin Xianzi Festival: Held annually on the fifth day of the fifth month of the Tibetan calendar, watch young Tibetans perform Xianzi dances and experience a bonfire party. Pilgrim's Kitchen: Free butter tea is provided in Yubeng Village, and you can participate in the local believers' circumambulation activities. Stargazing Camp: Open space behind Yubeng Village (requires application to villagers), the Milky Way is visible to the naked eye. A trip to Meili Snow Mountain is not just a feast for the eyes, but also a journey of reverence for nature and faith. Plan ahead, pack light, and unlock the purest charm of the sacred mountain with respect and patience! Let's go!