Written by Veronica |
Located on the mountainside ofĀ Kawagarbo,Ā the highest peak of Meili Snow Mountain, Mingyong GlacierĀ is the largest and longest glacier inĀ Yunnan ProvinceĀ and has the lowest latitudeĀ and elevationĀ of its kindĀ in China.Ā Surrounded by mountainsĀ and forests, it stretches for 11.7 kilometers and is 2,660 meters above sea level.
Overview of Mingyong Glacier
Mingyong GlacierĀ is aĀ sacred glacier for the local people.Ā Mingyong means brazierĀ in Tibetan, which signifies its geographical shape and the mild climate.Ā AsĀ well-preserved coniferous and latifoliate forests surround it, it is a stunning natural wonder to explore.
Fast Facts of Mingyong Glacier
- Location:Northwest of Deqin county, Diqing (Shangri-la) Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province
- TicketPrice:Ā CNYĀ 55 per person (Extra CNY 75 will be charged if you take a sightseeing bus.)
- Opening hours:All day
- Time Needed: 1 day
- Best time to visit:In winter.
- Suited to:Hikers, and anyone who loves nature and adventure.
What to Do and See in Mingyong Glacier
Explore the Glacier by Hiking
As a must-visit attraction on your trip to Shangri-La in Yunnan, Mingyong Glacier is a wonderful place for hiking with well-designed boardwalks. You can hike along the winding boardwalks while enjoying the amazing landscape. A round trip usually takes 4 hours. During the whole journey, the altitude ascends from 2700 meters to 3300 meters.
Admire the Ancient Temples
Taizi Temple is the starting point for exploring the Mingyong Glacier, while Lotus Temple is the last viewing spot for overlooking the spectacular scenery of the whole glacier. These Tibetan Buddhist temples are sacred to the locals, and you can get in and turn prayer wheels.
Immerse Yourself in the Stunning Scenery
Mingyong Glacier has the most stunning scenery among glaciers, especially in winter. Its glacier tongue extends downward from an altitude of 5500 meters to 2800 meters, and it looks like a silver dragon hovering on the mountain, which is magnificent. Besides, the lush vegetation and tranquil surroundings are also there for you.
Travel Tips
- Check the weather before you go, as the climate changes fast.
- Bring a proper amount offood and water as there is no restaurant on your journey of hiking.
- To save your energy, you are advised to take a shuttle bus from the entrance of the scenic area to the hiking start point, which costs CNY 75.
- Take an oxygen cylinder if necessary because the altitude rises to over 3000 meters.
How to Get to Mingyong Glacier
If you plan to visit Mingyong Glacier on your Yunnan Shangri-La tours, below are the best ways for you to get there.
From Shangri-la:
Take a bus from Shangri-la Bus Station to Feilai Temple, where you can hire a car to Mingyong Glacier Scenic Area. Then, you can start hiking or take a shuttle bus to Taizi Temple, which is the first viewing spot.
From Deqin County:
Take a bus from Deqin County to Mingyong Village, which is near Mingyong Glacier. A bus departs from Deqin Bus Station every afternoon at 3 o’clock to Mingyong Village, and the return bus from Mingyong Village to Deqin leaves at 8 o’clock every morning.
Attractions nearby Mingyong Glacier
- Meili Snow Mountain: Located nearMingyong Glacier, this famous mountain range allows you to see spectacular mountains and wonderful treks.
- Feilai Temple: This is a Tibetan Buddhist templewith unique architecture. It is also a good viewing spot for the snow-capped mountains.
- Yubeng Village:Located at the foot of Meili Snow Mountain, it is a beautiful Tibetan village atĀ an altitude of 3000 meters. Besides, this remote and mysterious wonder is a charming place for hikers.
- Dongzhulin Monastery: This Buddhist monastery is one of the largest Gelu Sect monasteriesin Deqin County and is an important religious activities center in Kangnan District.
