Zimei Pass
子梅垭口
A top viewpoint for close-up views of the western slope of Mount Gongga’s main peak. The sunrise “golden mountain” glow is breathtaking, and it is a must-visit for photographers.
Zimei Pass lies in Gongga Mountain Township, Kangding City, at an elevation of about 4,500 m and very close to the main peak of Mount Gongga (7,556 m). On clear days, you can see the western slope of Gongga and the surrounding snow peaks. At sunrise, the “golden mountain” effect, when golden light illuminates the summit, is most spectacular. The night sky here is also superb. From Kangding, drive via Jiagenba and Shangmuju village into the mountains, a journey of about 2–3 hours. Parts of the road are unpaved mountain tracks, so it is advisable to hire a local off-road vehicle. Many people stay in Shangmuju or Zimei village guesthouses and head up to the pass before dawn to wait for the sunrise.
Notes: The altitude is high and temperature differences are large, so be prepared for altitude sickness and extreme cold. During the rainy season (June–September), the view is often blocked by clouds.
Opening hours
Open all day (leave before dawn to see sunrise)
Nearby sights
- Konka Gompa (Gongga Monastery)
- Lenggacuo Lake
- Hailuogou Glacier Forest Park
- Yanzigou Valley
- Moxi Ancient Town
- Moxi Catholic Church
- Red Stone Beach (Yajiageng Red Stone Park)
- Jingang Monastery