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Mount Amnye Machen is 6,282 meters (20,610 feet) high and located in Qinghai Province, China. For Tibetan Buddhists it is the home of Machen Pomra and a stunning mountain with beautiful landscapes, cultural significance and trekking opportunities. This guide covers trekking around Mount Amnye Machen, travel tips and essentials for your trip.
One of the most sacred mountains in Tibetan Buddhism, Mount Amnye Machen is a pilgrimage site for those who circumambulate the base of the mountain in a ritual called “kora”. The mountain is a focal point of worship with many legends and myths surrounding the deity. Visiting Mount Amnye Machen is not just an adventure but an immersion in Tibetan culture and spirituality.
Amnye Machen Kora Route
The kora around the very mountain is 120km (75 miles) long and takes 7-10 days to complete. Trekkers will cross high altitude passes, green valleys and remote Tibetan villages. Highlights of the trek are glaciers, snow capped peaks and sacred sites.
Trekking Highlights:
High Passes:
Drakdi Pass (4,200m): Panoramic views of the mountain and surrounding landscape.
Tamchok Gongkar pass (49,00m): Challenging but rewarding section with great views.
Pilgrimage Sites:
Cairns and prayer flags along the trail.
Local monasteries and shrines visited by Tibetan pilgrims.
Natural Wonders:
Glaciers, alpine lakes, diverse flora and fauna.
Blue sheep, marmots and maybe even the snow leopard.
How to Get There
By Air: Xining Caojiabao International Airport in Xining, the capital of Qinghai Province. From Xining to Machen County.
By Road: Buses and private vehicles run between Xining and Machen County. The journey takes 10-12 hours and goes through scenic routes and Tibetan villages.
Local Transport: Jeeps or hired cars recommended for the trailhead and remote areas.
Best Time to Go
Spring (April-June): Good weather and wild flowers.
Autumn (September-October): Clear sky and great views.
Avoid monsoon season (July-August) and winter months due to bad weather and road closures.
Permits and Regulations
Foreigners do not need a travel permit to visit Mount Amnye Machen as it’s a restricted area.
Respect local customs and sacred sites.
Do not litter and practice eco trekking.
Physical Preparation
Train for endurance and high altitude trekking.
Acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness.
Consult a doctor for your fitness level and carry necessary medications.
Essential Gear
Warm clothing: Layers, waterproof jacket, thermal wear, gloves.
Trekking boots.
Sleeping bag for sub zero temperature.
Trekking poles and crampons for icy sections.
First aid kit, water purifier and energy snacks.
Guides and Porters
Hiring a local tour guide is highly recommended for navigation as it is easy to lost.
Respect Local Customs:
Do not step on prayer flags or sacred sites.
Ask permission before photographing locals or religious objects.
Interact with Locals:
Learn some basic Tibetan phrases for communication and respect.
Share small gifts or souvenirs as a thank you.
Participate in Rituals:
Join pilgrims circumambulating the mountain if invited.
Spin prayer wheels and chant mantras as a sign of participation.
Mount Amnye Machen is a virgin ecosystem. Trekkers must:
Follow Leave No Trace principles.
Carry out all trash and no single use plastics.
Practice eco trekking to minimize the impact.
Near Machen County, the local town monastery gives insight into Tibetan Buddhism.
Visit the source of Yellow River, a natural and cultural heritage site. Kyarang and Ngorang Lakes are beside there.
Golok Tibetan Villages:
Experience traditional Tibetan life.
Day 1: Arrival in Machen County and acclimatization.
Day 2: Drive to the trailhead and start trekking. Overnight in tented camp.
Day 3-7: Trek around Mount Amnye Machen, cross high passes and visit sacred sites.
Day 8: Finish the kora and back to Machen County.
Day 9: Back to Xining or continue to Qinghai.
Mount Amnye Machen is not just a place but an experience that combines adventure, spirituality and cultural immersion. Whether you are a trekker, a pilgrim or a nature lover, this sacred mountain has something for everyone. With proper preparation, respect for local customs and sense of adventure, a trip to Mount Amnye Machen will be a lifetime memory.
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