Update: Haba Snow Mountain has been closed since October 2025 for rectification works and is also closed during the winter season for safety reasons. As of March 2026, the Haba Snow Mountain Provincial Nature Reserve Administration and the Shangri-La Culture and Tourism Bureau have not announced a reopening date. In view of this uncertainty, we have decided to cancel the 2026 trip and hope to organise the trek again in 2027.
Following the strong interest and positive response to our past expeditions, we are pleased to return to Haba Snow Mountain for our 2026 early-summer climb. This journey offers trekkers another opportunity to experience one of Yunnan’s (China) most striking snow-covered peaks, set against the dramatic landscapes of Shangri-La and Tiger Leaping Gorge.
Haba Snow Mountain (哈巴雪山), also known as Haba Xueshan, rises to 5396m and is located southeast of Shangri-La (香格里拉), directly opposite the famed Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (玉龙雪山 / 5596m). Separated by the Jinsha River, these two mountains stand guard over the legendary Tiger Leaping Gorge (虎跳峡), one of the deepest gorges in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the Naxi language, “Haba” means golden flower, a name befitting its striking alpine presence.
Crowned with snow throughout the year, Haba Snow Mountain is regarded as one of the more accessible high-altitude snow peaks in China. While the climb is not technically demanding, prior snow and ice experience is helpful but not required; more important is having good endurance and overall fitness to tackle the ascent. The terrain is generally straightforward and free of crevasses, making it a suitable entry-level snow mountain for those looking to gain experience above 5000m.
The final ascent to the summit features the well-known “Hopeless Slope” (绝望坡) > a 950m snow slope that demands strong physical fitness, steady pacing, and mental resilience. Though challenging, this exposed section provides an excellent opportunity to practise crampon footwork and apply snow-travel techniques in a real alpine environment.
This 2026 expedition is great for trekkers looking to tackle their first snow-covered peak, or simply to gain experience and confidence for future snow or ice climbs.
Trip date: Fri, 29 May – Sat, 6 Jun 2026
Trip details: https://aceadventure.com.sg/tour/china-haba-snow-mountain/
This is trip will be led by Joanne Soo
Who is this trip for?
This expedition is suitable for adventurous trekkers who want to experience their first snow-covered peak. It’s ideal for trekkers with basic fitness who are comfortable with multi-day hikes at higher altitudes, and who are eager to learn snow and ice skills in a safe and supportive environment. It is also a great option for experienced trekkers looking for another adventure in a scenic, snowy setting.
Prerequisites
> No prior technical climbing experience is needed. Participants should:
> Be in good general fitness for trekking at high altitude
> Be willing to learn basic snow and ice techniques, including using crampons
> Have endurance for a full day ascent on snowy terrain
To sign up, click here [REGISTER]
Contact us at [email protected] for other details.
