Golden ice

Wild monkeys add fun to a visit to the Dagu glacier.[Photo provided to China Daily]

Heishui River that originates from the glacier runs through a small village where some 30 Tibetan families live. While the residents have revered the mountains for generations, even they didn't know of the glacier's existence as it remained hidden in the snow.

But with all its pretty houses made of wood, earth and tiles, the village has become a tourist spot now, thanks to Dagu.

The Tibetan families still maintain their traditional lifestyle, raising yaks, picking herbs and running small eateries for travelers. During festivals, they host folk events for visitors.

Nearly 90,000 soldiers of the Red Army crossed the village from 1935-36 and were warmly welcomed by its residents during the Long March from China's south to its north. A temporary conference venue for the troops and their barracks have also become places of historical interest.