A stunning five hour drive northwest from Shangri-La leads to the small town of Deqin, known as Jol in Tibetan. Near the border with Tibet, Deqin (pronounced duh-chin) is home to the incomparable Meili Mountain, Yunna's tallest mountain whose highest peak measures 6,740 meters. Meili, or Kawa Karpo in Tibetan, is one of eight sacred Tibetan Buddhist peaks. The area's steep terrain forces pilgrims to need at least 4 days to complete a Khora, or circumambulate the mountain. Unlike Mount Everest, Meili's highest peak has never been reached by man despite many attempts. Local monks remain unsurprised by this fact, as in their view, the sacred peak is not meant to be reached. A few kilometers up the road, Feilai Temple and the tiny surrounding village of the same name afford stunning views of all of Meili's peaks. The Mingyong Glacier below drops as low as 2,700 meters in elevation, making it one of the lowest glaciers in the world. Far below the headwaters of the Mekong divide the valley. Fantastic hiking options from secluded glacial lakes and villages to 4,000 meter mountain passes await visitors. The seclusion of Deqin, Feilai Temple, and Meili Mountain is fitting, as often times the world's most beautiful treasures should be somewhat hidden away.

Visit Deqin on an Overland China journey:
Incomparable Yunnan