Experience the Winter Beauty of Peacock Mountain in Nujiang River

A Memorable Encounter with a Winter Wonderland In the winter of 2025, I embarked on a journey to explore Peacock Mountain in Nujiang River. Located at the junction of Deqin County, Diqing Prefecture, and Gongshan County, Nujiang Prefecture, Yunnan Province, this snow-capped mountain gets its name from its resemblance to a peacock spreading its wings. In winter, it's adorned with a silvery, ethereal, and mysterious aura. This trip was not only a visual feast but also a spiritual cleansing. I. First Encounter with Peacock Mountain: The Majesty of a Winter Wonderland Upon arriving at Peacock Mountain, I was greeted by a scene of pristine beauty after a fresh snowfall. The mountains were gently covered in snow, resembling a maiden draped in a rose-colored veil, gentle and serene. Sunlight pierced through the clouds, and the snow reflected diamond-like sparkles, dazzling yet captivating. The distant "Tianxin Twelve Lakes" were as clear as mirrors, reflecting the snow-capped mountains and the blue sky. The interplay of light and shadow created a dynamic, ink-wash painting-like scene. As dusk approached, the setting sun painted the snow-capped mountains in hues of red and gold, weaving a mesmerizing "Song of Ice and Fire" on the snowy landscape. When twilight faded and moonlight cascaded down, the entire mountain returned to its tranquil, pure white, with only the sound of the wind resonating with my heartbeat. II. Exploring the Hidden Wonderland: The Intertwining of Nature and Culture The core area of the "Three Parallel Rivers" in Northwest Yunnan, where Peacock Mountain is located, is a treasure trove of both natural beauty and cultural heritage. Driving along the Degong Highway, which took 16 years to build, offers breathtaking views of the Nujiang, Lancang, and Jinsha Rivers in a single day. The rime along the highway was crystal clear, the meadows were covered with a thin layer of snow, yaks strolled leisurely, and the primeval forests and cascading waterfalls added to the wild charm. In the Nujiang Grand Canyon at the foot of the mountain, villages of the Lisu and Nu ethnic groups dotted the landscape. By the fire pit in Laomudeng Village, villagers warmly welcomed me with "xiala" (homemade wine). The a cappella four-part harmony of the Lisu people echoed in the cold night, and the ancient "Dabia" played, narrating the stories of their people. If you happen to visit between December and March, you can participate in the Lisu "Kuoshi Festival" or experience the Denggeng Hot Springs "Bathhouse Fair," immersing yourself in the healing embrace of nature and culture. III. Culinary Delights and Warmth: The Comfort of Winter Winter in Nujiang can be cold, but the delicious food and warm atmosphere are enough to warm the heart. The hearty Lisu hand-grabbed rice, the rich Qiyou chicken, and the crispy stone-baked Baba, paired with a bowl of hot corn grits porridge, instantly dispelled the chill. Staying overnight in Baihualing Lisu Music Town, while simmering tea by the fire, a villager offered me a piece of aged Nuodeng ham. The aroma of the fat mingled with the crackling of the charcoal fire, creating the warmest memory of my journey. IV. Travel Tips: How to Experience the Most Beautiful Peacock Mountain 1. Best Time to Visit: November to February, when snow scenery and folk activities intertwine. 2. Transportation: Drive along the Degong Highway to connect the Three Rivers scenery; or fly from Baoshan or Dali to Liuku, then head north along the "Beautiful Highway." 3. Must-Sees: The First Bend of the Nujiang River in Bingzhongluo, the Tea Horse Road in Wuli Village, and the Hapang Waterfall in Dulongjiang River, together forming a "Winter Warm Route." Conclusion: The Gentle Nujiang Beneath the Snow Winter at Peacock Mountain is an extreme collision of cold and warmth. The cold comes from the biting mountain winds and snow, while the warmth comes from the smiles of the villagers, the heat of the fire pit, and the richness of the culture. There's no hustle and bustle here, only the whispers of the snow-capped mountains and canyons, making one forget about returning. If you yearn for a pure winter wonderland experience, Peacock Mountain in Nujiang River will etch "Life in Yunnan" into your memory in the most poetic way.