In the southwest of Deqin County, the Shangri-La region and its crowning jewel—the Meili Snow Mountains—hold deep spiritual significance for Tibetan pilgrims. The range comprises thirteen peaks, with Kawagebo (6,740m) standing tallest. The absolute highlight here is the “golden sunrise,” when the first light of day sets the icy summits aglow—a moment best witnessed in autumn, when skies are at their clearest.
The area also offers plateau lakes, dense forests, rare flora and fauna, and foothill villages where Tibetan traditions remain vibrantly alive. Nearby, Pudacuo National Park (about 22 km from Shangri-La) puts on its own autumn display, with red meadows, crystal lakes, and multi-colored woodlands creating a painterly landscape.
