Trek the King of Sichuan's Mountains
Plan My Trip →Mount Gongga (Minya Konka), at 7,556 meters, is the highest peak in Sichuan and the third-highest in China outside the Himalaya. Its treks are legendary among mountaineers and trekkers. This guide covers the main routes, itineraries, and everything you need to know before you go.
Known to locals as Minya Konka, the mountain is sacred to the Tibetan people and dominates the western Sichuan skyline. Its dramatic vertical relief — nearly 6,000 meters from the Dadu River valley to the summit — makes it one of the world's most striking peaks.
The classic route circles the mountain over 5-7 days, crossing passes, alpine lakes, and primeval forests with close views of the summit and its glaciers. It is a moderately challenging high-altitude trek (camping up to about 4,500m), best done with an experienced guide.
For those with less time, the Zimei Pass viewpoint offers the iconic panoramic view of the mountain (with a short trek or 4WD + walk combination), and Hailuogou Glacier Park provides access to the glacier tongue and close views of the east face by cable car.
A typical 5-6 day itinerary: Day 1 drive from Chengdu to Kangding (4-5 hours); Day 2 acclimatize and drive to the trailhead; Days 3-4 trek the inner loop with camping; Day 5 return to the trailhead and drive to Kangding; Day 6 return to Chengdu. Add days for the full circuit.
The trek reaches about 4,500m. Acclimatize in Kangding (2,600m) first, hike steadily, and hydrate well. Good aerobic fitness is required, and prior multi-day trekking experience is recommended. Portable oxygen is advisable for those prone to altitude symptoms.
The best seasons are May-June (spring flowers) and September-October (clear autumn skies). Avoid July-August monsoon rains. Winter is possible for experienced trekkers but snow and cold make it challenging.
There is no official permit required for the Konka treks, but a local guide is essential for navigation, safety, and arranging camping and pack animals. Book through a reputable trekking operator that provides quality gear, oxygen, and emergency protocols.