Yunnan, China · Meili Snow Mountain pilgrimage
Yubeng Village Trek
A hidden village beneath a sacred peak
Distance
~35 km (round trip)
Duration
3–4 days
Max elevation
~3,700 m (Nazongla Pass)
Difficulty
Demanding · high altitude
Cradled beneath the sacred, unclimbed Kawagarbo (6,740m), Yubeng is a tiny Tibetan village reachable only on foot. Pilgrims and trekkers cross a high pass into a valley of glaciers, waterfalls and prayer flags — one of the most beautiful and spiritual walks in China.
Along the trailStops
Xidang
The trailhead village where the climb over the pass into Yubeng begins.
Nazongla Pass
The prayer-flag pass that separates the outside world from the Yubeng valley.
Upper & Lower Yubeng
The two hamlets that serve as the base for exploring the valley's trails.
Sacred Waterfall
A pilgrimage waterfall below Kawagarbo where devotees circle for blessings.
Ice Lake
A milky glacial lake at the foot of the glacier — the valley's toughest and most rewarding day hike.
Good to knowTips
- Sleep a night at Feilai Temple before entering the high village
- Mules can haul bags or riders; book ahead if fitness is a concern
- Village stays are simple, with limited hot water and signal — bring cash
Getting thereLogistics
Base in Feilaisi (near Deqin) for sunrise views of Meili, then drive to the Xidang trailhead. Guesthouses in Yubeng provide beds and meals; mules can carry packs over the pass.
Next hike
Everest Base Camp