A group of hikers who ventured up a snow-capped mountain accidentally captured this breathtaking avalanche during their journey.

One of them, surnamed Bao, said he and his companions encountered the terrifying wonder while hiking up the Aylanish Snow Mountain, in China's north-western Xinjiang Region, on November 27.

Phone footage shows massive piles of snow crushing down the 21,000-ft-tall mountainside.

Bao said: 'The sound it made was like thunder.'

The group was a safe distance from the avalanche and could observe the sight in peace.

Bao likened the spectacle to a falling star.

He added: 'Make a wish when the avalanche happens; it will definitely come true.'

The Aylanish Snow Mountain is covered by snow all year round and is home to some of the most beautiful sceneries and rare low-latitude modern glaciers.

Among them, Kezhou Glacier is the most popular among local tourists as it is surrounded by icy peaks and vast grasslands during summertime.