Qinghai Amne Machin: Sacred Mountain Glacier Loop Trek

Arrive in Maqin County from across China, nestled in the heart of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. This is the starting point for your Mount Amnye Machen kora and your first stop for high-altitude exploration.

• Hotel Check-in — Settle into your accommodation, collect your itinerary materials, and prepare for the challenges ahead.
• Free Exploration — We recommend visiting Lhari Monastery to experience the solemnity of this Gelugpa Avalokiteshvara sanctuary, or strolling through Gesar Dynasty Square to soak in the Tibetan culture.
• High-Altitude Acclimatization — Upon arriving at an altitude of 3720m, it's crucial to take it easy, avoid strenuous activity, and drink plenty of water to build a strong foundation for the journey ahead.

Depart from Maqin in the morning and drive deep into the heart of Amnye Machen. The majestic silhouette of the sacred mountain will accompany you throughout, marking the beginning of your trekking adventure.

• Trekking Starting Point — Arrive at the trekking trailhead, organize your gear, and get ready.
• Scenery Along the Way — Trek along the road, getting up close to the magnificent, continuous snow-capped peaks of Amnye Machen. Every view is a breathtaking masterpiece.
• Damuqiao Nihe Camp — Reach the high-altitude camp at 4570m, pitch your tents at the foot of the sacred mountain, and experience the tranquility of a high-altitude night.

After breakfast, gear up and set off to face today's challenge – crossing Damuqiao Nihe Pass and experiencing the awe of the ice and snow world.

• Damuqiao Nihe Pass — Trek up to the pass at 4630m, traversing gravel and alpine meadows along the way. The views open up dramatically.
• Machen Gangri Glacier — From the pass, the glacier wall of the main peak, Machen Gangri, seems almost within reach, like an icy pyramid reflecting a sacred, cold light.
• Muwaduo Camp — Descend gently to Muwaduo Camp at approximately 4300m, resting amidst the embrace of the mountains.

Leaving behind the grandeur of the pass, today we'll venture into the most spiritual heartland of Amnye Machen, experiencing the pure tranquility of nature.

• Sounds of Nature — Listen to the purest sounds of nature along the way, gazing at distant snow-capped mountains appearing and disappearing amidst the clouds.
• Mani Stone Forest — Traverse a unique Mani stone forest, feeling the power of faith.
• Snow Mountain Reflections — Admire picturesque snow mountain reflections, with stunning scenery all along the route.
• Zaxilatang Camp — Arrive at Zaxilatang Camp at approximately 4000m. This open area offers spectacular views, perfect for stargazing beneath the snow-capped peaks.

After breakfast, depart from Zaxilatang, trekking through unique natural and cultural landscapes, finally arriving at Xiadawu Township.

• Demon Peak — Pass by the majestic Demon Peak, with its rugged rocks showcasing a raw, powerful beauty.
• Stone Scripture Wall — Encounter the Stone Scripture Wall, inscribed with ancient texts, feeling the devotion of a thousand years of faith etched in stone.
• Tiger Descending the Mountain — Discover the naturally formed Tiger Descending the Mountain rock formation, marveling at nature's uncanny artistry.
• Amnye Machen Tibetan Cultural Center — After the trek, drive to experience this magnificent Tibetan sanctuary standing at the foot of the snow-capped mountains. Admire the perfect fusion of the sanctuary and the mountain range, especially spectacular at sunset.

After breakfast, revisit the Amnye Machen Tibetan Cultural Center, then drive to the trekking starting point for an in-depth glacier exploration.

• Zhihaidainihe Pass — Arrive at the pass viewpoint, overlooking the magnificent glacier landscape.
• Dangxiong Glacier — Venture deep into one of the largest glaciers in the Yellow River basin, experiencing its breathtaking sight, like a flowing jade ribbon, a colossal river of ice.
• Highland Crossing — After the trek, transfer to vehicles and cross the pristine highland interior, passing through Xueshan Township. The journey is accompanied by snow-capped mountains and vast grasslands, offering expansive and healing scenery.
• Celebration Dinner — Return to Maqin County for a grand celebration dinner, bringing a perfect close to your Mount Amnye Machen kora adventure.