Essential tips on altitude, weather, and tickets to help you enjoy Jade Dragon Snow Mountain with ease.
PHYSICAL FITNESS & ALTITUDE
- Snow mountain is located at a high altitude (up to 4,680 meters).
- Visitors may experience high altitude sickness; consult your doctor if you have any health concerns.
- Acclimatization in Kunming/Dali is recommended before the trip. This allows your body to adjust to a higher altitude gradually.
- Moderate physical fitness is required.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
- Spring & Autumn
(Mar-May, Sep-Nov) - Clear skies, best for photography.
- Summer
(Jun-Aug) - Green landscapes but higher chance of clouds or rain.
- Winter
(Dec-Feb) - Snowy peaks and crisp mountain air.
- TIP:
Morning visits often provide the clearest views.
DO'S & DON'TS
Do's
- Wear layered, warm clothing and sturdy walking shoes.
- Move slowly at altitude and rest often.
- Use sunglasses and sunscreen - UV rays are stronger at high elevation.
- Respect local culture and natural surroundings.
Don'ts
- Don't rush on the glacier stairs.
- Don't ignore altitude sickness symptoms.
- Don't rely on same-day cableway tickets, especially during peak season.
- Don't smoke or drink alcohol before or during your visit.
THINGS TO KNOW
- Cableway tickets sell out fast - Aether Tours secures them in advance.
- Passport required for ticket collection and entry.
- Optional:
hire an English-speaking guide for cultural insights and smooth logistics.
ACCESSIBILITY
- Glacier Cableway -
Includes many stairs; limited wheelchair or stroller access.
- Blue Moon Valley -
Easier walking paths but uneven in places.
HEALTH & ALTITUDE
- Glacier Cableway peak reaches 4,506m
- Portable oxygen canisters available at the base.
- Not suitable for travellers with serious heart, lung, or blood pressure conditions.
- Stay hydrated, eat light, and avoid alcohol or smoking.
- Overnight stay in Lijiang is recommended for altitude adjustment.
DINING AVAILABILITY
- Food options inside the scenic are are very limited - mostly small snack stalls near the cableway base and parking areas.
- Restaurants are more available back in Lijiang Old Town or the city centre.
- It's best to carry light snacks (nuts, energy bars) and a reusable water bottle for the day.
- Pro Tip:
Eat a light meal before ascending - heavy food combined with high altitude can make some travellers uncomfortable.
INTERESTING FACTS & TRAVELER TIPS
- Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is sacred to the Naxi people, known as the
"God of Snow Mountain."
- Blue Moon Valley is nicknamed,
"Little Jiuzhaigou"
for its surreal turquoise lakes.
- Morning visits usually have the clearest views.
- The mountain's weather can change dramatically - sunshine, mist, or snow, sometimes all in one day.
