Paoma

1.Introduction: The Melody of the Highlands

2.Located on the southern edge of Kangding: City in the Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Paoma Mountain (Paoma Shan) is a destination immortalized by melody. It is the physical embodiment of the world-famous "Kangding Love Song" (Kangding Qingge), making it a romantic symbol of Western Sichuan. Rising to a peak altitude of approximately 3,820 meters, this mountain is not just a scenic spot but the spiritual and cultural guardian of Kangding, known locally as "Lhamo Tse" in Tibetan, which translates to "Fairy Mountain". Legend tells of a fairy who once raced horses and sang here, leaving behind a legacy of romance that permeates the air.

A View of Kings and Cities

Reaching the summit—accessible via a convenient 10-minute cable car ride—rewards visitors with one of the most comprehensive panoramic views in the region. From the viewing platforms, one can gaze down at the bustling Kangding City nestled in the valley, often referred to as the "Liuliu City" in the famous song. Looking outward, the horizon is dominated by the majestic peaks of the Gongga Snow Mountain range, the "King of Shu Mountains". The interplay of the city's lights below and the "Golden Sunshine" hitting the snow-capped peaks above creates a visual contrast that attracts photographers and nature lovers alike.

The Home of the Love Song

Paoma Mountain is widely celebrated as the birthplace and best interpretation of the "Kangding Love Song". The mountain features the "World Love Song Square," home to giant sculptures and artistic representations of the song's lyrics. It serves as a romantic pilgrimage site where couples often visit to take photos and hum the tune that tells the story of the "Liuliu" mountain and the "Liuliu" clouds. The history of the song traces back to the 1940s, inspired by the love between a Han youth and a Tibetan girl during the traditional horse racing festivals held on these slopes.

Cultural Heritage and Festivals

Beyond romance, Paoma Mountain is a sacred site for the local Kangba Tibetan people. It has historically served as a traditional racecourse and a place for the grand "Zhuan Shan Hui" (Mountain Circumambulation Festival) held annually in the eighth month of the Tibetan calendar. During this vibrant festival, the hills come alive with horse racing, archery, Guozhuang dancing, and the singing of love songs, creating a lively atmosphere of worship and celebration. Visitors walking the mountain trails will encounter fluttering prayer flags, Mani stones, and small temples where incense burns perennially, offering a profound glimpse into the fusion of Han and Tibetan cultures.

Seasonal Beauty

The mountain offers distinct beauty across seasons. In summer (June to August), the slopes are lush with green grass and wildflowers, providing a vibrant backdrop for the horse racing festivals. Autumn (September to October) transforms the landscape into a golden wonderland, offering the highest probability of witnessing the spectacular "Sunshine on the Golden Mountain" phenomenon over the distant snow peaks.