Haba Snow Mountain
A 5,396-metre summit climbed without technical skill, often taken as a first snow peak.
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Haba stands on the north side of Tiger Leaping Gorge, facing Jade Dragon across it, and reaches 5,396 metres. It is climbed regularly by people with no mountaineering background because the standard route needs no ropework in normal conditions: a walk from Haba village to a base camp around 4,100 metres, then a long night start up scree and snow slopes to the summit with crampons and a guide. That does not make it easy; the altitude gain is severe and the summit day is many hours of hard walking in cold and thin air, and weather turns it back regularly.
What you actually see
- The summit at 5,396 metres - a snow peak reached without technical climbing.
- The base camp - the overnight stop at around 4,100 metres.
- Jade Dragon opposite - the facing range across Tiger Leaping Gorge.
- Haba village - the Naxi settlement where climbs start.
When to go
April to May and October to November are the standard windows; summer brings rain and unstable snow, deep winter severe cold and wind. Weather turns back a significant share of attempts.
Honest expectations
The altitude is serious and acute mountain sickness is common; acclimatisation matters. Guides are required and horses carry loads to base camp. Summit day starts around midnight and takes many hours.
Nearby
Tiger Leaping Gorge lies south; Shangri-La is north.
What to pack for Haba Snow Mountain
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.