Mount Gongga Trek Guide: Route, Map & Travel Tips

Mount Gongga Trek

Mount Minya Gongga, also known as Mount Gongga, is commonly referred to simply as Gongga by locals. It is one of the most popular trekking destinations in China. Mount Gongga has an elevation of 7,556 meters, making it the highest peak in Sichuan Province. This trekking route is 40 kilometers in total length, with a maximum altitude of 4,980 meters, and is suitable for trekkers with high-altitude and long-distance hiking experience.

Where is Mount Gongga? Why is it worth visiting

Administrative Region: Located in Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, spanning Kangding, Luding, Shimian, and Jiulong counties. Geographical Coordinates: 29°35′44″N, 101°52′44″E Mountain Range: Hengduan Mountains — Daxue Mountain Range, serving as the geographical boundary between the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and the Sichuan Basin.

Features:

Natural Ecosystem:
It features a complete vertical climate and ecosystem, ranging from subtropical valleys to alpine glaciers, forming seven natural zones. It nurtures nearly 5,000 plant species and hundreds of rare animals, making it a biodiversity treasure and a “natural refuge for species.”

Culture and Mountaineering Heritage:
In Tibetan, “Gongga” means “white ice mountain.” Locals call it “Minya Gongga” and regard it as a sacred mountain. Nearby are Tibetan Buddhist monasteries such as Gongga Monastery and Tagong Monastery, integrating Tibetan and Yi ethnic cultures.

Mountaineering Challenge:
Mount Gongga, at 7,556 meters, is considered a “death zone” in the international mountaineering community, with a difficulty far greater than Mount Everest (as of 2025, only about 25 people have successfully summited).

Tourism and Scientific Value:
The scenic area centered on Mount Gongga covers 10,000 square kilometers and includes attractions such as Hailuogou Glacier Forest Park, Yanzigou Scenic Area, and Mugecuo Scenic Area. It features glaciers, hot springs, and alpine lakes (such as Lengga Co and Bawang Lake), making it a paradise for photographers and trekkers.

Famous Attractions of Mount Gongga

Old Yulin

Old Yulin is a village located on the outskirts of Kangding City. It is the most traditional starting point for classic trekking routes such as the Gongga Grand Loop and Small Loop. Trekkers depart from the Old Yulin Power Station, pass through Gexi Grassland, Liangcha River, Shangriwuchi Camp, cross Riwuqie Pass or Ridaman Pass, enter Moxi Valley, and finally reach Zimei Village or Caoke, completing the traverse.

Shangriwuchi & Xiariwuchi

Shangriwuchi and Xiariwuchi are two important trekking camps and geographical nodes in the Gongga Mountain region of Sichuan. They serve as key resting points and excellent viewpoints for appreciating multiple snow peaks.

Zimei Pass

Located in Kangding City, Garze Prefecture, Sichuan Province, it is only 15 km in a straight line from Mount Gongga. With an altitude of 4,500 meters, it is an excellent place to view the “King of Shu Mountains.” Here, you can overlook the main peak, witness the golden sunrise on the snow mountain, and enjoy rolling seas of clouds—like being in a fairyland. It is a must-visit for photographers.

Lengga Co

Lengga Co is known as the “Eye of Gongga,” an excellent spot to view the reflection of Mount Gongga. When the first sunlight hits the main peak, the entire snow mountain turns golden. The lake reflects the mountain like a mirror, and if lucky, you can also see cloud waterfalls pouring down from the pass.

Yulongxi Village

Yulongxi Village is located in Gongga Mountain Township, Kangding City, on the southwest slope of Mount Gongga, at an altitude of about 3,700 meters. It faces Mount Gongga and backs onto Ridaman Pasture. It is an important node for trekking routes on the southwest slope. Close to Lengga Co (about 4,500 m) and nearby attractions like Quanhuatan (about 4,100 m), it is an ideal starting point for both trekkers and photographers.

How to Trek Mount Gongga? Classic Route Recommendation

The Mount Gongga trekking route is a progressive journey from forests and meadows to snow-covered peaks—featuring both challenging mountain passes and breathtaking views of golden sunrise and reflections. It is one of the most worthwhile alpine trekking routes in western Sichuan.

Based on real traveler experiences, this route is an excellent choice for those planning the inner loop trek of Mount Gongga.

Day 1: Chengdu → Kangding / Old Yulin (drive)
Day 2: Old Yulin → Gexi Grassland → Shangriwuchi Base Camp (16 km trek)
Day 3: Shangriwuchi → Ridaman Pass (4,980 m) → Zimei Pass → Yulongxi Village (trek + vehicle)
Day 4: Yulongxi Village → Quanhuatan → Lengga Co (13 km trek)
Day 5: Yulongxi Village → Xinduqiao → Chengdu (return)

Important Tips

Altitude Sickness:
Altitude sickness is common above 3,000 m (especially on Days 2–3). Avoid intense activity, prepare medications (such as Ibuprofen), stay hydrated, and descend immediately if symptoms worsen.

Trekking Intensity:
Days 2 and 3 are the most physically demanding. Maintain a steady pace, use trekking poles, and consider horse riding if necessary.

Road & Transport Conditions:
Mountain roads from Chengdu to Old Yulin have many curves. Zimei Pass and Yulongxi Village involve off-road sections. Be cautious of landslides during the rainy season.

Weather:
The weather in high-altitude areas is unpredictable. Passes may close due to heavy snow. Bring windproof, warm, and sun-protective gear.

Beginner Suitability:
This route is more suitable for travelers with basic fitness and high-altitude adaptability. Beginners are advised to travel with a guide.

You can also contact us, and join our hike:  5 Days Holy Mt. Konka Inner Loop Trekking Tour

 

Best Time to Visit Mount Gongga

Season	Time	Features	Suitability
Autumn	Sep–Nov	Best season. Stable weather, more sunny days, less rain, highest chance to see golden sunrise. Colorful landscapes.	★★★★★
Spring	May–Jun	Transition between dry and rainy seasons. Mild temperature, relatively stable weather.	★★★★☆
Summer	Jul–Aug	Rainy season, unstable weather, fog and storms. Lush greenery and blooming flowers.	★★★★☆
Winter	Dec–Apr	Dry season, more sunny days but extremely cold, snowy, and slippery. Some passes may close.	★★☆☆☆

How to Get to Mount Gongga (Transportation Guide)

From Chengdu to Mount Gongga:

1. Take a flight to Kangding Airport

2. Take a bus directly to Hailuogou

3. Join a tour group for the most convenient option, especially for first-time trekkers

Conclusion

For Mount Gongga, whether you are a photographer, trekking enthusiast, or simply a nature lover, you can find your own meaning and inspiration here. If this route excites you, save this guide and contact us for more detailed itinerary recommendations to start your Mount Gongga journey.

Contact us

Email: info@chinaadventure.org
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FAQs

Q1: Is Mount Gongga worth visiting?

A: Yes, it is absolutely worth visiting. It offers magnificent snow mountains, golden sunrise views, and stunning plateau landscapes.

Q2: Is Mount Gongga dangerous?

A: There are certain risks (altitude sickness, changing weather, complex terrain), but they are manageable with proper preparation.

Q3: Can you drive to Mount Gongga?

A: Yes, you can drive to some areas, but core viewpoints like Zimei Pass usually require off-road vehicles or local transport.

Q4: Is Mount Gongga suitable for beginners?

A: Some easier routes are suitable for beginners, but high-altitude trekking routes are better for those with basic fitness or with a guide.

Q5: What is the elevation of Mount Gongga?

A: The main peak is 7,556 meters above sea level, the highest in Sichuan Province.

Q6: Do you need a permit to visit Mount Gongga?

A: Most areas do not require special permits, but some protected zones or trekking routes may require registration or a guide.

Q7: How many days are needed for Mount Gongga?

A: Generally, 3–5 days are recommended. For full trekking or deeper exploration, 5–7 days are ideal.