Clarifying the paleoelevation changes of Diancang Shan (DCS) is important for comprehending both tectonics and the climatic effects in the transition zone between the high Tibetan Plateau and the lower relief of eastern and southern Asia. Our results show low elevations of DCS between ~ 7.6 and ~ 5.0 Ma, followed by significant uplift of 1000–2000 m between ~ 5.0 and ~ 3.5 Ma. They provide a novel method for reconstructing the paleoelevation of mountains like DCS in orogenic belts.