Essential Tips Before You Go

1. Season Conditions:

-There is minimal snow at the mountain top in July and August. If pressed for time, you may skip Glacier Park at Summer Peak holiday. Other time is recommend. 

– It’s recommended to not climb Jade Dragon Snow Mountain immediately upon arriving in Lijiang.

2. Ticket Reservations:

– Reserve tickets several days in advance due to high visitor numbers; same-day reservations are typically unsuccessful at peak season.

– Try to get tickets for the Big Cable Car in the morning as afternoon tickets often get canceled due to weather conditions.

3. Blue Moon Valley:

– Avoid visiting Blue Moon Valley on cloudy days as the scenery is less impressive and photos won’t turn out as well.

4. Oxygen and Clothing:

– Purchase oxygen bottles in the ancient town for 15-20 RMB each. Usually, one bottle is sufficient.

   – Bring your own down jacket for warmth, as rented jackets in the scenic area cost 30-50 RMB each. They don’t need to be too thick.

5. Food and Water:

   – Bring energy-boosting snacks; hot water is available for instant noodles. Scenic area snacks are available but expensive.

6. Site Visits:

– If time is limited, choose either Yak Meadow or Spruce Meadow as they offer similar scenery.

– Ensure you get off the scenic area bus at Shuiyue Pavilion, not Blue Moon Valley, to avoid having to rent an electric vehicle.

7. Health Precautions:

– Start using oxygen upon arrival at Jade Dragon Snow Mountain to prevent altitude sickness.

 – Avoid visiting the mountain if you have a cold, as it can be dangerous. Bring cold medicine and use it at the first sign of illness.

– Be cautious of exaggerated altitude sickness warnings from drivers or guides trying to sell overpriced oxygen bottles or solutions, keep a good mood and using oxygen when you climb to the mountain, carry oxygen bottle is absolutely necessary. I personally experienced terrible altitude sickness when I climbed up the Mountain and was about to go down to take the cable car. I had severe altitude sickness, because I didn’t bring oxygen bottle, it was very dangerous. So my first suggestion is to bring an oxygen bottle.

– Riding horses will not take you up the snow mountain; only cable cars can.

8.Re-Entry:

– Re-entry to the mountain the next day does not require an additional entrance fee if you register at the visitor center with your ID and ticket.

9. General Advice:

– Bring sunglasses and a hat to protect against the bright sun and reflective snow.

– Be punctual for cable car tickets; a 30-minute window before and after the scheduled time is allowed, but significant delays will void the ticket.

– Plan your route carefully as each cable car takes you to different spots.