Mount Amnye Machen, standing at 6,282 meters, is one of the highest peaks of the Amnye Machen Shan mountain range. This mountain massif is considered sacred and has become a pilgrimage destination for the Golok people.

This sacred mountain is located in the South-East region of the former Tibetan province of Amdo, now in the province of Qinghai.

History

The Amnye Machen mountain remained unknown for a long time and was first spotted in 1920 by an English explorer.

A rumor from 7th-century Chinese chronicles suggests that the mountain was once a sort of "kingdom of women". Reports during the Sui and Tang dynasties had been made to the emperor indicating that this territory was ruled by women and that it was difficult to tax their resources.

Spiritual Significance of Amnye Machen

The Amnye Machen massif has long been considered a sacred mountain and pilgrimage site for the Golok people. In the eyes of Tibetan pilgrims, the mount represents the residence of Machen Pomra, the greatest local protective deity. Pilgrims come to pay homage to this god as well as to his 360 secondary deities.

According to Golok legends, the Tibetan hero Gesar of Ling is said to have hidden his magical sword here.

Trekking Mount Amnye Machen

Having remained unknown for a long time, the Amnye Machen mountain range remains enigmatic in that some of its peaks have yet to be summited.

It is possible to circumnavigate this mountain on foot or horseback. During your journey through Golok country, you will certainly encounter nomads as well as Buddhist pilgrims who have come to make the pilgrimage around the sacred mountain to seek favors from the protective deity.

At the beginning of the trek, which most often corresponds to the end of the pilgrimage, you will find mountains of shoes that have been used by pilgrims during their walk.

The wild landscapes of the mountains and the sacred geography of these ritual trails make it an adventurous yet above all unforgettable hiking opportunity.

The complete circuit around the mount is nearly 190 km. Depending on your walking pace, it can be completed between 7 and 10 days. On horseback, you can expect between 3 and 5 days. Some choose to do only half the circuit in 3-4 days.

Along the way, several monasteries dot the slopes, including Guri Gompa and Chorten Kharpo.

The trek may take you to summit points at just over 4,000 meters. It is therefore important to prepare well and bring medication in case of altitude sickness.

When to Go?

May, June, and September are the most favorable months to venture onto the trails of Mount Amnye Machen. The weather is favorable for the trek.

How to Get There?

It is possible to approach the mountain via two routes:

• Take the bus to Maqin then rent a car to reach Xueshan, the traditional starting point of the Kora (pilgrimage circuit).
• Head to Maduo or Huashixia and find a jeep to Xiadawu.

Entrance Fees

Upon arrival at the Mount, you may be asked for a passage fee of 100 RMB as well as an environmental tax of 30 RMB per day.