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Yunnan Hiking Top 1: Tiger Leaping Gorge Hiking - Best Hiking Trail of China (Lijiang)
Location: In Hutiaoxia Town, 60 km from Lijiang City and 70 km from Shangri-La City
Length: About 25 kilometers (15.5 miles)
Duration: Usually 2 days
Elevation: 1,800 to 2,600 meters
Difficulty: Moderately challenging. The trail involves steep ascents and descents, narrow paths, and some sections with loose rocks.
Best Time: During the spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) seasons.
Tiger Leaping Gorge is renowned as one of the best hiking trails in China, offering breathtaking scenery and thrilling trekking experiences. The gorge is carved by the Jinsha River, which runs through towering cliffs and rugged mountains. Hiking through Tiger Leaping Gorge allows you to witness stunning natural landscapes and immerse yourself in the grandeur of the surroundings.
Best Features
- Jaw-Dropping Scenery: The gorge offers stunning natural beauty, including towering cliffs, deep canyons, majestic snow-capped mountains, cascading waterfalls, and the roaring Jinsha River.
- Massive Tiger Leaping Stone: Look for the legendary Tiger Leaping Stone, which the gorge is named after, and imagine the tiger's leap across the narrowest part of the gorge.
- Thrilling High Trail: The High Trail provides breathtaking views and allows you to hike along the edge of the gorge, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape.
- Waterfalls and Rapids: Along the trail, you'll encounter various waterfalls and rapids formed by the Jinsha River, adding to the scenic splendor of the hike.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1: Upper Trail - High along the Cliff with higher viewpoints
Start your day by arriving at Upper Tiger Leaping Gorge from either Lijiang or Shangri-La. Once you arrive, begin your hike from Naxi Family Guesthouse. The first leg of the hike is about 10 kilometers, leading you to Halfway Guesthouse, where you can admire the wonderful sunset of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
Day 2: Lower Trail - Closer to the River and Thrilling
On the second day, continue your journey from Halfway Guesthouse towards Tina's Guesthouse for 6 kilometers downhill hiking. Continue hiking to cross the Middle Tiger Leaping Gorge to Teacher Zhang's Guesthouse. This 4-kilometer hike will take you to the bank of the surging Jinsha River, where you can feel the wrath of the Jinsha River up close. After completing the hike, return to Lijiang or Shangri-La.
How to Get to Tiger Leaping Gorge
From Lijiang:
- Taking a Private car is the best way to travel to Tiger Leaping Gorge from Lijiang. You can arrive at Naxi Family Guesthouse, the hiking starting point, with non-stop.
- Bus to Tiger Leaping Gorge is available from the Lijiang Bus Terminal, South Gate and North Gate of Lijiang Old Town.
- The Bus can only take you to Upper Tiger Leaping Gorge, then you need to take a carpool to Naxi Family Guesthouse.
From Shangri-La:
- Taking a Private car directly to Naxi Family Guesthouse is the best way to travel to Tiger Leaping Gorge from Shangri-La.
- Bus to Tiger Leaping Gorge is available from the Shangri-La Bus Terminal. You need to take a carpool to Naxi Family Guesthouse.
To Remember
- Pack light: Carry only essential items in a small backpack and leave the majority of your luggage at your accommodation.
- Accommodation and supplies: Along the trail, there are accommodations and supply points where you can rest, replenish your provisions, and find a place to stay overnight.
- Safety precautions: Stay on the marked trail, follow safety instructions, and exercise caution near cliff edges.
Check more details in Tiger Leaping Gorge.
Yunnan Hiking Top 2: Yuanyang Rice Terraces Hiking (Yuanyan)
Location: Yuanyang County, Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China.
Length: 10-20 kilometers.
Duration: Usually 1 day
Elevation: 1,400 to 2,000 meters
Difficulty: The trails are generally considered moderate, with some steeper sections and uneven terrain.
Best Time: During the winter months, typically from November to March. This is when the terraces are filled with water, creating stunning reflections and vivid colors. The weather during this period is generally cool and pleasant for hiking.
The Yuanyang Rice Terraces are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a hiker's paradise. Unlike the rugged challenge of Tiger Leaping Gorge, Yuanyang offers a scenic and culturally immersive experience.
Highlights & What to See
- Breathtaking Rice Terraces: The main highlight of the Yuanyang Rice Terraces is the incredible landscape of cascading rice terraces. The terraces are meticulously carved into the mountainside and showcase stunning patterns and hues. The scenery is especially captivating during sunrise and sunset.
- Ethnic Minority Villages: The area surrounding the rice terraces is home to several ethnic minority villages, including the Hani and Yi people. Exploring these villages allows you to witness their traditional way of life, unique customs, and colorful traditional clothing.
- Sunrise and Sunset Views: The terraces provide excellent vantage points to witness breathtaking sunrise and sunset views. The changing colors of the sky combined with the terraced landscape create a magical and serene atmosphere.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1: Kunming to Yuanyang and witness sunset
Arrive in Yuanyang Rice Terrace from Kunming for 5-hour drive. Witness the amazing sunset at Bada Rice Terrace and stay overnight in Duoyishu Rice Terrace area.
Day 2: Hiking to explore Yuanyang Rice Terraces
After sunrise in Duoyishu Rice Terrace, hiking to explore the main rice terrace areas, venturing deeper into the terraces or exploring nearby villages. Head to Laohuzui Rice Terraces to observe the sunset over the terraces, capturing the stunning golden hour light.
Day 3: Back to Kunming after sunrise
Wake up early to witness the amazing sunrise again in Duoyishu Rice Terrace. Then drive 5 hours to return to Kunming and departure.
How to Get to Yuanyang Rice Terraces from Kunming
By private car or join guided tour package with non-stop - the best and convenient way
The most convenient and efficient way is to hire a private car or join a guided tour package. This allows for a non-stop journey from Kunming directly to Yuanyang Rice Terraces. The travel time is about 5-6 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions.
By public transportation
First, take a high-speed train from Kunming to Jianshui or Honghe. The train journey takes around 2 hours. Both Jianshui and Honghe are about 120 kilometers away from the scenic area.
From Jianshui or Honghe, you can take a bus to Yuanyang County, which is located around 30 kilometers from the rice terraces. Once you reach Yuanyang County, you can transfer to a private car or carpool service to reach the rice terraces. The road journey from Yuanyang County to the rice terraces takes about 2-3 hours.
To Remember
- Hiking Equipment: Wear comfortable and sturdy shoes suitable for hiking. Consider carrying a daypack with essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera.
- Respect Local Culture: When visiting the ethnic minority villages, be respectful of their customs and traditions. Ask for permission before taking photographs and engage with locals in a friendly and courteous manner.
Check more details in Yuanyang Rice Terraces.
Yunnan Hiking Top 3: Yubeng Hiking, China’s Hiking Paradise (Shangri-La)
Location: Yubeng Village is located in the Meili Snow Mountain region, near the border of Yunnan and Tibet, 80 kilometers northwest of Shangri-La City.
Length: There are several hiking trails around Yubeng Village, 12 - 15 kilometers each
Duration: 2-7 Days as you wish, 3-4 days is suggested
Elevation: 2,800 - 4,600 meters
Difficulty: The Yubeng hiking trail is considered moderately challenging, with steep sections and high altitudes.
Best Time: during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) seasons.
Yubeng Village itself is a charming Tibetan settlement with traditional houses and prayer flags adorning the landscape. The surrounding area boasts a diverse landscape with dramatic mountains, glaciers, alpine meadows bursting with wildflowers, and pristine lakes. It is often regarded as one of China's hiking paradises due to its pristine natural beauty and remote location. The area is rich in Tibetan culture and offers breathtaking views of the sacred Meili Snow Mountain.
Highlights & What to See
- Mesmerizing scenery: Hike through valleys, meadows, and forests with panoramic views of the Himalayas, including the sacred Mount Kawagebo.
- Alpine Lakes: Yubeng is famous for its beautiful lakes, like the turquoise Ice Lake and the serenely reflective Milk Lake.
- Sacred Waterfall: Hike to the cascading Sacred Waterfall, a culturally significant site for Tibetans.
- Tibetan Culture: Immerse yourself in the rich Tibetan culture by visiting monasteries, witnessing prayer ceremonies, and interacting with the local people.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1: Shangri-La to Flying Temple
Start your journey from Shangri-La, the road journey from Shangri-La to Flying Temple takes about 4 hours. Along the way, you still have time to visit Napa Lake or the Great Bend of Jinsha River
Day 2: Head to Yubeng Village and Hike to Scared Waterfall
Get up early for the majestic Meili Snow Mountain Sunrise, then take a jeep ride to the Yubeng Village, the journey takes 2 hours. Upon arrival, take a round-trip hike to the Sacred Waterfall (神瀑), the easiest hike trail takes around 5-6 hours.
Day 3: Hike to Ice Lake
Take a round-trek trip to Ice Lake (冰湖), the hiking takes around 7 hours.
Day 4: Hike to Ninong Bridge and back to Shangri-La
Trek to Ninong Bridge (尼农桥), which is close to the entrance. The one-way hiking journey takes around 4 hours. Then drive back to Shangri-La City directly for another 3.5 hours.
How to Get to Yubeng Village from Shangri-La
- Taking a private car is the best way to arrive at Yubeng Village and no transfers is required .
- Bus is available from Shangri-La City to the town of Deqin. From Deqin, hire a local driver or take a shared minivan to Yubeng Village, the starting point of the hike.
To Remember
- Altitude: Yubeng is located at a high altitude, so proper acclimatization is crucial to avoid altitude sickness. Spend a day or two in Shangri-La to adjust before starting your hike.
- Rainfall: Pack appropriate clothing for varying weather conditions, including good hiking boots, layers for temperature changes, rain gear, and sun protection.
Yunnan Hiking Top 4: Pudacuo National Park Hiking (Shangri-La)
Location: 30 kilometers east of Shangri-La City
Length: 5-10 Kilometers
Duration: range from a few hours to a full day
Elevation: 3,500 to 4,200 meters
Difficulty: The hiking trails in Pudacuo National Park are generally considered to be of low to moderate difficulty. Most trails are well-maintained and suitable for hikers of various fitness levels.
Best Time: During the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these periods, the weather is generally mild, and you can enjoy the vibrant colors of blooming flowers in spring or the beautiful foliage in autumn.
Pudacuo National Park is known for its stunning natural beauty, including pristine lakes, dense forests, and picturesque landscapes. The park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including rare species such as the black-necked crane and the Yunnan snub-nosed monkey. It is the first national park in China to meet the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) standards. The park offers a range of hiking trails that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and explore its unique ecosystem.
Highlights & What to See
- Shudu Lake 属都湖: Shudu Lake is one of the park's main attractions, known for its crystal-clear waters and the surrounding lush vegetation. The lake is perfect for a leisurely stroll along its shores, offering picturesque views and opportunities for birdwatching.
- Bita Lake 碧塔湖: Bita Lake is another beautiful lake within the park, surrounded by dense forests and snow-capped mountains. The lake is famous for its turquoise waters and the reflection of the surrounding landscape on its surface.
- Militang Pasture 弥里塘 (closed for now): Militang Pasture is a scenic area in Pudacuo National Park where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and grasslands. It's a great spot for a picnic or a short hike while admiring the natural beauty of the area.
Suggested Itinerary
One day is enough to hike in Pudacuo National Park. Here's a suggested itinerary:
- Start from Shangri-La City and drive to the entrance of the scenic area, which takes around 40 minutes.
- Take the electric shuttle bus from the entrance to Shudu Lake. Along the way, you can choose to get off the bus and hike along the wooden trail named Youyou Budao (悠幽步道) for 2.5 kilometers, which will take approximately 1 hour.
- Upon arrival at Shudu Lake, you have three options to explore the beauty of the lake - Hiking: There is a 3.5-kilometer hiking trail around Shudu Lake, which will take about 1.5 hours. This option is free of charge. Biking: Rent a bike and ride around Shudu Lake. The bike ride takes approximately 30 minutes and costs 90 yuan. Boating: Take a boat ride on Shudu Lake, which lasts only 5 minutes but costs 50 yuan.
- After exploring Shudu Lake, drive to Bita Lake, which is located 21 kilometers away from Shudu Lake. Hike around Bita Lake, which has a short trail of 1.5 kilometers.
- Finally, return to Shangri-La City.
It's worth noting that if you're short on time, it's recommended to skip the Youyou Budao hike and focus on visiting Shudu Lake and Bita Lake to admire the beautiful scenery. This way, you can spend a half-day exploring Pudacuo National Park.
How to Get to Pudacuo National Park from Shangri-La
Pudacuo National Park is located about 22 kilometers (13.7 miles) east of Shangri-La City. You can reach the park by taking a taxi or hiring a private vehicle from Shangri-La. There are also public buses available to the park entrance.
To Remember
Wildlife and Conservation: Respect the park's regulations and guidelines to help preserve the natural environment and protect the animals.
Environmental Responsibility: Practice responsible hiking by following the park's rules and regulations. Leave no trace of your visit, dispose of waste properly, and respect the natural surroundings.
Yunnan Hiking Top 5: Cangshan Mountain Hiking (Dali)
Location: Cangshan Mountain is located near the city of Dali in Yunnan Province, China.
Length: The full trail of Jade Belt Road (玉带云游路) is about 12 kilometers long.
Duration: 5-6 hours
Elevation: 2,200-2,400 meters
Difficulty: The Jade Belt Road is considered a easy to moderate hike, The trail is well-maintained and mostly consists of stone steps, making it accessible to most visitors, even children.
Best Time: During the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) seasons.
The Jade Belt Road is a popular hiking trail located on Cangshan Mountain near Dali. It offers stunning views of Dali City, Erhai Lake, and the surrounding landscapes. The trail meanders through lush forests, passes by ancient temples, and showcases beautiful waterfalls along the way. It provides a perfect combination of natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it a must-visit destination for hikers in Dali.
Highlights & What to See
- Scenic Views: The Jade Belt Pathway offers stunning panoramic views of Dali City, Erhai Lake, and the surrounding mountains. As you hike along the trail, you'll be treated to breathtaking vistas of the Dali landscape.
- Ancient Temples: Along the Jade Belt Road, you'll come across several ancient temples, including Zhonghe Temple and Gantong Temple. These temples provide cultural and historical insights and offer peaceful spots for rest and reflection.
- Waterfalls: Cangshan Mountain is known for its numerous waterfalls. During your hike, you may encounter cascading waterfalls, creating a serene and picturesque setting amidst the lush greenery.
Suggested Itinerary
You can spend 5-6 hours hiking the entire route or choose to experience some sections for 2-3 hours.
For those planning to hike the entire route, we recommend starting from the Gantong Temple side (1-hour hike or 10-minute cable car ride) and then walking along the Jade Belt Pathway for 6 hours. Along the way, you will pass by the Qilongnv Pool, a mid-section of the Ximatan Cable Car, and the Zhonghe Temple. Finally, you can take the Zhonghe cable car down the mountain.
If you prefer a shorter hike of 2-3 hours, we suggest taking the cable car up from Gantong Temple and then hiking for 3-4 kilometers before returning to the cable car for the descent.
If you are interested in reaching the summit of Cangshan Mountain, it is recommended to take the Ximatan Cable Car directly and, after descending, hike for 1-2 kilometers to reach the Ximatan Pool at an altitude of 3,966 meters. This area is particularly stunning from May to June when the alpine rhododendrons are in full bloom. Afterward, take the cable car down to the mid-section where Qilongnv Pool is located, and then hike 4 kilometers along the Jade Belt Pathway to take the Gantong cable car descent.
To Remember
- Weather and Clothing: Bring layers as temperatures can change throughout the day. Wear comfortable hiking shoes and carry a rain jacket in case of unexpected showers.
- Water and Snacks: Carry an adequate amount of water and some snacks to keep yourself hydrated and energized during the hike. There may be limited options for purchasing food and beverages along the trail.
Travel with Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT) to Explore Yunnan
Embark on a breathtaking journey to Yunnan with Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT) and discover the province's stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. As a trusted travel partner with over a decade of experience in the region, AOT offers a wide range of customizable Yunnan tour packages tailored to meet the diverse interests of every traveler. Whether you're seeking a family adventure, a romantic escape, or an in-depth exploration of Yunnan's ethnic diversity and natural wonders, AOT has the expertise to craft the perfect itinerary for you.
Popular Destinations:
- Kunming: The "Spring City" known for its pleasant climate and vibrant flowers.
- Lijiang: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with a well-preserved ancient town.
- Dali: Famous for its beautiful Erhai Lake and the ancient Bai culture.
- Shangri-La: A gateway to Tibetan culture and stunning highland scenery.
- Yuanyang Rice Terraces: Renowned for its spectacular rice terraces.
- Xishuangbanna: Experience the tropical climate, rich biodiversity, and the unique Dai culture, including attractions like the Wild Elephant Valley and tropical rainforests.
- Tiger Leaping Gorge: One of the deepest gorges in the world, offering breathtaking views and thrilling hiking trails along the Jinsha River.
- Jianshui: A historic town known for its ancient architecture, including the well-preserved Jianshui Confucian Temple and the beautiful Zhu Family Garden.
Tour Packages:
- Comprehensive Yunnan Tours: Kunming Lijiang Tour, Kunming Dali Tour, Lijiang Shangri-La Tours
- Yunnan Theme Tours: Yunnan High Speed Train Tours, Adventure, Hiking, Nature, Family, Winter, Photography, Ancient Town, Ethnic Group
- Combined Tours with Nearby Regions: Yunnan and Tibet Tour
Start planning your dream vacation today with Asia Odyssey Travel and experience the beauty, culture, and warm hospitality of Yunnan. Contact us to begin your journey.
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