Ani Gazhuo·Maya Snow Mountain: The Ice and Snow Legend of the Sacred Land of Tibet

Known in Tibetan as "Ani Gazhuo," Maya Snow Mountain lies quietly 35 kilometers west of Tianzhu Tibetan Autonomous County, Wuwei, Gansu. The harsh cold with an average annual temperature of -6.5°C creates a year-round snow spectacle. The mountain stretches 45 kilometers from northwest to southeast, about 10 kilometers wide. Its main peak, "Lunbushize" (meaning "the highest Mount Sumeru"), rises to 4,447 meters, piercing the sky and blending natural grandeur with Tibetan spirituality into a sacred pure land. Sword Peaks Reflect Snow, Nature Crafts Wonders Maya Snow Mountain is named for its shape resembling horse teeth, with rugged terrain full of countless scenes. Sometimes it looks like a sharp sword unsheathed, its edge pointing straight to the sky; sometimes like a crystal pagoda, refracting dazzling halos under sunlight; sometimes like a goddess draped in veils, its hazy charm inspiring reverie. Every contour is carved by nature’s divine craftsmanship. Heavenly Pool Reflects Zen, Legends Endure At the foot of the mountain, a ten-kilometer green meadow spreads like a carpet; at the summit, a crescent-shaped heavenly pool lies quietly embraced by cliffs. The half-square-kilometer pool is clear and blue, never drying up, reflecting the snow mountain and flowing clouds. The "Sword Testing Rock" at the top is said to be where King Gesar tested his sword by splitting a rock. The natural "Guanyin Preaching" scene adds a touch of Zen—under the seated Guanyin stone on the mountain rock, the stone forest bows like worshippers listening, creating a perfect Buddhist realm. Tibetan Culture Soaks In, Sacred Mountain Prayers As a sacred mountain in the hearts of local Tibetan people, Maya Snow Mountain carries profound cultural heritage. Every year on the 13th day of the sixth lunar month, herders gather by the heavenly pool to perform solemn rituals praying for favorable weather and prosperous livestock. The chanting mingles with the wind, telling stories of faith and devotion passed down through generations. Practical Travel Guide - Transportation: Self-driving is preferred, 2-3 hours direct from Lanzhou; public transport can reach Huazang Temple first, then transfer to Tanshanling, followed by car hire or hiking into the mountain. - Admission: Free entry, no extra charges. - Touring Route: Start from the parking lot and hike along the plank road; those with good stamina can challenge the main peak to overlook the surging mountains. - Photo Spots: Snow mountain viewing platform, grassland flower sea, and wooden plank road are all great for photos. From June to August, wildflowers carpet the area, creating stunning scenery. - Food Recommendations: In Tianzhu County town, try authentic Tibetan cuisine like hand-pulled mutton, butter tea, and stuffed flatbread to warm up and refresh, full of Tibetan flavor. Warm Tips The mountain area has large temperature differences between day and night, so be sure to bring a thick jacket; the high altitude requires avoiding strenuous exercise to prevent altitude sickness; please protect the sacred mountain’s cleanliness by not littering, so this purity can be preserved forever. Maya Snow Mountain (Zhuaxi Xiulong Town)