Hidden Snow Paradise: Exploring the Niche Xianggla Glacier
Located in Puyu Village, Bianba Town, Bianba County, Changdu City, Tibet Autonomous Region, the Xianggla Glacier nestles deep within the majestic Nyenchen Tanglha Mountains, backed by the Kongla Gangri peaks, with an average elevation of about 4,100 meters. As one of the sources of the Nujiang River, it consists of four glacial tongues and belongs to the mountain glacier type, with tongues extending to 4,200 meters and an ice lake at around 4,100 meters. Here, you’ll find towering ice walls, diverse ice caves, turquoise glacial lakes, rivers formed by meltwater, and moraine lakes at the glacier’s terminus—a true masterpiece of nature’s icy artistry. Legend has it that in ancient times, the Xianggla Glacier was a sacred land guarded by mountain deities, who used its power to protect the land and its people, adding a mystical aura to the glacier.
⛺【Must-Visit Spots】
Xianggla Glacier Ice Walls: The iconic landmark, featuring towering, ever-changing ice formations. Some walls resemble colossal snow castles, shimmering in blue-white hues under sunlight, offering breathtaking visuals and a prime spot for photography.
Glacial Ice Caves: Venture inside to discover crystal-clear caves adorned with stalactites and stalagmites. The blue ice glows mysteriously in dim light, creating a fairy-tale winter wonderland.
Puyu Tricolor Lakes: Near the glacier, these lakes—black, white, and yellow—boast enigmatic origins and stunning hues, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, making them a perfect spot to experience alpine lake magic.
Puyu Village: A serene Tibetan village at the glacier’s base, where you can immerse in authentic local life, admire traditional architecture, savor Tibetan cuisine, and soak in rich cultural vibes.
🛬【Travel Tips】
Recommended Duration: 2–3 days to fully enjoy the glacier and explore the region.
Itinerary:
D1: Arrive in Bianba County, rest, then head to Puyu Village. Stay in a local homestay, soak in Tibetan culture, and stroll around the village at dusk to admire sunset-lit mountains.
D2: Full-day glacier exploration. Hike along the trail to see ice walls, caves, and lakes up close. If fit, venture deeper (safety first!). Picnic near the glacier, continue exploring, and return to the village by evening.
D3: Visit the Tricolor Lakes, walk the lakeside boardwalk, and enjoy the unique colors and scenery. Later, hike nearby hills for panoramic views of the village and lakes, then depart in the afternoon.
🏨【Accommodation】: Choose your preferred star rating—our planners will book based on your needs.
🚌【Transport】: Private car service throughout for comfort and privacy.
🧡【Tips】
Altitude Sickness: Prepare with anti-altitude meds (e.g., Rhodiola) beforehand. Avoid strenuous activity, rest well, stay hydrated, and carry oxygen.
Gear: Pack heavy down jackets, thermal pants, gloves, and scarves for the cold. Wear waterproof, slip-resistant boots for glacier walks. Bring high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats for UV protection.
Safety: Follow professional guides—glacier terrain is treacherous. Avoid unmarked areas to prevent falls or crevasses. Watch your step on slippery ice.
Eco-Care: The fragile ecosystem demands no littering or damaging ice/vegetation. Preserve this pristine world.
Connectivity: Some areas have weak signal; inform family of your plans in advance.
DM me to customize your dream trip!
🐬 Tailored tours, zero travel stress!
#CtripCustomTravel #CtripTravelPlanner