Written by Veronica |
In the GarzĆŖ Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Sichuan ProvinceĀ in China, Mount Gongga, the so-called āThe King of Sichuan Mountainsā, is the highest mountain in Sichuan with an altitude of 7,556 meters.
There are 45 peaks with an altitude of 6,000 meters aroundĀ Gongga ShanĀ – the continuous and majestic snow-capped mountains make it one of the most beautiful mountains in China.Ā It is also one of the mountains with the greatest altitude difference in the world, featuring glaciers such as Helugu Gorge, Bawan Gorge, Yanzi Gorge, and Mozi Gorge, as well as highland lakes such as Mogeguo, Wuxuxi Sea, and Bawan Sea. Its breathtaking views attract more and more tourists from home and abroad.
Gongga Shan at a Glance: Key Facts
- In Chinese: č“”åå±±,å²·é č“”å
- In Tibetan: Meaning the White Ice Mountain – a holy mountain
- Location: Seated in the southern part of Kangding City, Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province; The junction of Luguantai County and Jiulong County
- Altitude: 7,556 meters (24,790 feet)
- World rank: The 41st highest peak in the world; one of the most challenging mountains to climb due to its extremely steep terrain
- First summit: By American expedition members of Terris Moore and Richard Burdsalin 1932
- Opening Time: All day
- Time Needed: About three days
- Best Time to Visit: June to September
- Best for: Adventurers, hikers, and photographers
- Ticket Price: CNY90 for Hailuogou Glacier Park, CNY160 for Mount Niubei (including a shuttle bus), and CNY20 for Lenggacuo Lake
Other Important/Fun Facts of Mount GonggaĀ
Mount Gongga in China is the highest peak of the Daxue Shan mountain range.Ā It spans over 10,000 square kilometers and encompasses 145 peaks with an altitude of over 5,000 meters and 45 peaks over 6,000 meters.
The Sichuan Gongga Mountain National Nature Reserve was established in 1997, to protect the biodiversity and diverse ecosystems of the mountains. The main protected objects include the mountainous ecosystems dominated by the Gongga Mountain in the Greater Himalayan range, various rare wild animal and plant resources, and various natural landscape resources mainly consisting of the low-altitude modern glaciers in Hailuogou.
In 1930, the American explorer Joseph Rock mistakenly estimated the altitude of Mount Gongga to be 9,500 meters, causing it to be mistakenly regarded as “the highest peak inĀ ChinaĀ and inĀ the world” for a period of time.
The difficulty of climbing Mount Gongga is second only to that ofĀ Meili Snow Mountain, andĀ exceeds that of Mount EverestĀ and K2 Peak. Since the first successful ascent by Americans in 1932, only 10 attempts by a total of 32 people have succeeded in reaching the summit, while 21 people unfortunately died.
There are 71 modern glaciers distributed within theĀ Gongga MountainĀ scenic area.Ā The No. 1 glacier of Hailuogou is located at an altitude of 2850 meters. It is the lowest glacier at the same latitude in China and extends into the original forest for 6 kilometers. Its ice waterfall is 1080 meters high and 1100 meters wide, making it the largest ice waterfall in China. The movement of the glaciers has formed unique landforms such as glacier arcs, ice towers, and ice bridges.
The most renowned scenic spot in GonggaĀ Mountain is the “Sunlit Golden Mountain” landscape. On a clear day, under the glow of the sunset and the afterglow, a faint red light emerges from the black cracks in the back-shadowing clouds. More than 50 towering and straight snow-capped peaks, like golden swords, pierce the clouds. The light is dazzling. On the opposite side of the valley, the vast groves of pine trees, under the sunlight, resemble ancient green garlands surrounding the unattainably high golden snow peaks above the mountain.
For serious adventurers who want to hike or active travelers who wish to take photos of Gonga Shan, we can customizeĀ Sichuan tours to Mount Gongga.
Highlights of Mount Gongga: Majestic Scenery to See
Minya Konka
Minya Konka is the main peak of the Great Snow Mountains in the Hengduan Mountain Range with a unique geological landscape. How was Mount Gongga formed? It was formed through long-term geological changes and intense crustal movements. The mountain peaks you now see are sharp, looking like giant pyramids, shining with a metallic luster under the sunlight. There are U-shaped valleys, ice basins, crests, and other glacial landforms widely distributed.
Hailuogou Glacier Park
Seated at the eastern foot of Mount Gongga, Hailuogou Glacier ParkĀ (also a geopark) is a must-see attraction in Mt. Gongga area that features magnificent glaciers formed 16 million years ago, pleasant hot springs, and a luxuriant forest.
The Great Icefall Observation Platform is the closest viewing platform for tourists to the glacier. From here, one can see Mount Gongga, the Great Icefall, and Century Glacier. Under favorable weather conditions, one can also witness natural wonders such as the sea of clouds and the divine light.
To save the time and energy, everyone can take the cable car to overlook the splendid landscape of Mount Gongga, with the haizi (small lakes) scattered in the dense forest and the unknown plants growing along the lake shore.
If you prefer glaciers and alpine landscapes, donāt miss this scenic spot on your travel to Mount Gongga in Sichuan.
Yanzigou Valley
Yanzigou Valley, also called Swallow Gully, is an ideal attraction for hiking and taking pictures.
In the Yanzigou Valley, there are 15 peaks over 6,000 meters in height and 35 snow-capped mountains. Starting from an altitude of 2,100 meters and extending successively to the main peak of Gongga Mountain at 7,556 meters, it is still a place rarely visited by people.
For many, climbing Mount Gongga is tough, but conquering this valley is much easier due to its lower altitude. You will be rewarded with gorgeous landscape of the red stone beach, luxurious forests, limpid streams, and alpine meadows.
Lenggacuo Lake
Regarded as āA Drop of Tear of Mount Gonggaā, this scenic spot is a must-see attraction on your trip to Mount Gongga in Sichuan. Standing by the lake, you will have a better view of Mount Gongga. Itās also a wonderful place to take breathtaking pictures of the wonderful scenery, such as beautiful clouds, magnificent mountains covered in white snow, charming sunsets, and the starry sky in the evening.
Wuxuhai
Another famous attraction in the Gongga Mountain Scenic Area is Wuxuhai, which has an altitude ranging from 1440 meters to 6010 meters. There are snow-capped mountains, primeval forests, streams in the forest, five-colored meadows, alpine meadows and lakes, strange trees, and various rare plants and animals.
Mount Niubei
This is a well-constructed scenic site with adequate facilities and hotels. Except for the mountains, clouds, and sunset glow, you can also experience skiing there, making your Sichuan tours to Mount Gongga more interesting.
Gongga Shan South Face vs North Face
Ā |
South Slope (typically refers to the Southwest Slope)ā |
North Slopeā |
Top Attractionsā |
ZimeiyaĀ Pass, Lenggacuo Lake, Lisuohaizi Lake, Gongga Monastery, Bawang Lake |
Yanzi Valley, Wuse Lakes, Baihaizi Lake, Longhua Mountain |
What to doā |
Hiking, Sightseeing, Photographyā |
Advanced Trekking/Expedition, Technical Mountaineering |
Suitable Forā |
Most people, photography enthusiasts, and beginner hikers |
Experienced trekkers, mountaineers, and landscape photographers seeking challenge |
ExploringĀ Gongga Shan:Ā TrekkingĀ & Photography, and Tibetan Culture
Best Viewpoints & Photography Spots
What is the best place for admiring Gongga Mountain? The eastern slope, western slope, and northern slope. Among them, the western slope and the northern slope are closer to the Sichuan Western Plateau. Here we recommend several viewpoints for taking photos of Mount Gongga:
Kangding Airport Road: This is the nearest viewpoint after entering the plateau, about 62 kilometers from the main peak. You can capture aircraft and vehicles. It is recommended to use a lens of 100mm or above.
Yuzixi: It is very close to XinduqiaoĀ and allows you to see both Gongga Mountain and Yala Mountain at the same time. Vehicles can reach the top for star photography. It is about 68 kilometers from the main peak, so use a lens of 100mm or above.
Balang Shengdu: Similar to Yuzixi, but there are fewer tourists. It is about 91 kilometers away from the main peak. Our tip – Use a lens of 200mm or larger.
Zimeiya Pass:Ā It is very close to the main peak. Vehicles can reach the top, but the road conditions are poor. It is about 17 kilometers away from the main peak. It is recommended to use a 50mm lens.
Lenggacuo and Sanencuo: They are only 3 kilometers apart and follow the same route. They are very close to the main peak, and the reflections can be captured. Lenggacuo has more peaks visible, while Sanencuo has fewer tourists and clearer water. It is about 20 kilometers away from the main peak, so our tip is to use a lens of 50mm or above.
Lisouhai:Ā It is quite close to the main peak and allows for capturing reflections. There are few people and the water is very clear. The drawback is that this angle of the Mt. Gongga is not as spectacular as the Kengga Choe direction. It is about 23 kilometers away from the main peak. It is recommended to use a lens of 50mm or larger.
Trekking & Hiking in Gonggashan
Mount GonggaĀ is aĀ paradiseĀ for hikers and explorers. Is it possible to climb Mount Gonggaās highest peak? Yes, but so difficult. We have mentioned earlier that only 32 people have succeeded in reaching the summit.
However, there are hiking trails ofĀ Mount Gongga for beginners and challengers. And you will see different scenery as the altitude elevates. There are also chances for you to come acrossĀ wildĀ animals in Mount Gongga, such as antelopes, deer, and more.
Check our recommendations for a classic Mount Gongga hiking/trekking tour:
Gangga Trail PassingĀ through the Entire Area
Hiking distance: approximately 70 kilometers
Highest altitude: 4920 meters
difficulty: ā ā ā ā ā
Route:
- Day 1: LaoyulināGexi GrasslandāLiangchaheāXia RiwuqieāShang Riwuqie Camp
- Day 2: Shang Riwuqie CampāLeduomanyin ViewpointāRidaman PassāYulongxi Village
- Day 3: Shang Riwuqie CampāLeduomanyin ViewpointāRidaman PassāYulongxi Village
- Day 4: Yulongxi VillageāQuanhua BeachāLenggacuoāYulongxi Village
- Day 5: Yulongxi VillageāZimei PassāZimei VillageāBawanghaiāHanyuan
Gongga Short Circuit Trail
Hiking Distance:Ā Approximately 40 kilometers
Highest Altitude: 4,920 meters
Difficulty:Ā ā ā ā ā ā
Route:
- Day 1: Laoyulin — Gexi Grassland — Liangchahe — Xia Riwuqie — Shang Riwuqie Camp
- Day 2: Shang Riwuqie Camp — Ridaman Pass — Ridaman Pasture — Zimei Pass — Yulongxi Village
- Day 3: Yulongxi Village — Quanhua Beach — Lenggacuo — Yulongxi Village
Gongga’s Southwest Slope – Classic Trekking Route for Beginners
Trekking Distance: Approximately 45 kilometers
Highest Altitude: Approximately 4,500 meters
Difficulty: ā ā ā ā
Route:
- Day 1: Jiagenba – Quanhua Beach – Lenggacuo – Yulongxi Village/Shangmuju
- Day 2: Longxi Village/Shangmuju – Zimei Pass – Zimei Village – Gongga Temple – Zimei Village
- Day 3: Zimei Village – Bawanghai – Bawanghai Parking Lot – Chengdu
Savor Tibetan Culture
Add the Tibetan culture experience to your trip. There are numerous temples around Mount Gonga, such as the over 1000-year-old Tagong Temple. You can see devotees walk around the temple with devotion to pray for blessings,Ā creating a mysterious and solemn atmosphere in this land.
Essential Travel Tips
Best Time to Travel to Gongga Mountain
May to November, especially September to November, is the best time for Mount Gongga sightseeing, and for hiking/trekking.
From May to August (spring to summer), the mountains are ablaze with wildflowers – so beautiful. But you will expect frequent rainfall. And the weather is unpredictable.
From September to November (autumn), the weather is excellent. There are colorful snow-capped mountains and forests. And, it’s easier to see the golden sunrise over the mountains.
How to Get to Mount Gongga
By plane: What is the nearest airport to Mount Gongga? The Kangding Airport. Fly to Kangding Airport from Chengdu. Then go to Xinduqiao Bus Station and take bus 6 to Mount Gongga.
By train:Ā Another good way to travel from Chengdu to Mount Gongga. Take a train to Yaāan from Chengdu West Railway Station or Chengdu South Railway Station. Then go to Yaāan bus station and take a bus to Luding. Hire a taxi to Hailuogou Glacier Park.
By bus:Ā There are regular buses to Haluogou from Chengdu East Bus Station or Xinnanmen Bus Station.
Should You Worry About Altitude Sickness?
From Kangding (at about 2700m) to Hailuogou (at about 3000m) and then to the higher-altitude scenic spots in the Gongga area, such as Lenggacuo (at about 4500m), there is a possibilityĀ for visitors to have altitude sickness. Symptoms such as accelerated breathing and heartbeat, inability to sleep, digestive problems, and headaches are the body’s stress responses in high-altitude environments and are normal phenomena. If severe altitude sickness occurs, take oxygen immediately and descend to a lower altitude area promptly.
Nearby Attractions
- Xinduajiao: A Photographer’s Paradise – especially in autumn – with poplar forests, Tibetan-style houses, and distant mountains creating a picturesque scene.
- Tagong Grassland: Ideal for capturing the iconic image of Yala Snow Mountain and the Wooden Pagoda of Yumta.Ā In summer, there is a grand Tibetan grassland festival on the grassland.
- Moxi Ancient Town: A Tibetan town. The gateway to Hailuogou Scenic Area.
Venture to Mount Gongga with Chinaxiantour with an Exclusive Adventure
So, to the west of Sichuan lies this dream destination for countless travelers (especially those with a dash of adventure in mind). And what charms? Now we all know the answer – there is the most magnificent plateau scenery of endless grasslands and towering snow-capped mountains, and rich ethnic cultures. And what is it that attracts them the most? Gongga Mountain. Plan your trip to Mount Gongga, Sichuan today, the China Xian Tour team of travel specialists is waiting to help you tailor-make a memorable adventure.
