Tiger Leaping Gorge is one of the world’s top ten classic hiking trails and is highly recommended by National Geographic as a “must-hike” route in a lifetime. This guide is designed for foreigners who love natural scenery and hiking. Here is a 2-day, 1-night hiking itinerary:
Day 1: Lijiang/Shangri-La – Tea Horse Road – Midway Guesthouse
- Morning:
- Transportation: Depart from Lijiang or Shangri-La by shared car or private vehicle to the starting point of the hike (Naxi Ya Ge). The drive takes about 2.5 hours.
- Hiking Start: Arrive at Naxi Ya Ge (elevation 2200m) and begin the hike.
- 28 Switchbacks: Follow the high road and pass through the famous 28 switchbacks (elevation rises to 2650m). Although this section is steep, the views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Haba Snow Mountain are spectacular.
- Midday:
- Tea Horse Guesthouse: Arrive at Tea Horse Guesthouse (elevation 2650m) to rest and enjoy lunch. The Tea Horse Guesthouse is a famous stop on the ancient Tea Horse Road, with Jade Dragon Snow Mountain right across.
- Afternoon:
- Continue Hiking: Depart from Tea Horse Guesthouse and continue along the high road, enjoying the views of the gorge and snow mountains.
- Midway Guesthouse: Arrive at Midway Guesthouse (elevation 2200m) to check in and rest. Midway Guesthouse is a landmark location on the Tiger Leaping Gorge high road, with an excellent location.
- Evening:
- Dinner: Enjoy local farmhouse cuisine at the guesthouse, experiencing Naxi cuisine.
- Accommodation: It is recommended to stay at Midway Guesthouse, which has a beautiful environment and complete facilities.
Day 2: Midway Guesthouse – Dragon Cave Waterfall – Tina’s Guesthouse – Teacher Zhang’s Guesthouse
- Morning:
- Departure: Start from Midway Guesthouse and continue along the high road.
- Dragon Cave Waterfall: Pass by the Dragon Cave Waterfall and admire the spectacular waterfall scenery.
- Guanyin Temple: Continue on and pass by Guanyin Temple, experiencing the local religious culture.
- Midday:
- Tina’s Guesthouse: Arrive at Tina’s Guesthouse, where you can resupply food and water.
- Afternoon:
- Middle Tiger Leaping Gorge: Depart from Tina’s Guesthouse and choose the Teacher Zhang Trail to Middle Tiger Leaping Gorge. Along the way, you can enjoy the spectacular gorge views.
- Teacher Zhang’s Guesthouse: Arrive at Teacher Zhang’s Guesthouse to end the hiking journey.
- Evening:
- Return: Take a shuttle bus from near Teacher Zhang’s Guesthouse back to Lijiang or Shangri-La.
Tips
- Transportation: It is recommended to book a shared car or private vehicle in advance for convenient access to the starting point.
- Equipment: It is recommended to wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring trekking poles, sun protection, plenty of water, and high-calorie food.
- Accommodation: There are several guesthouses along the way, and it is recommended to book in advance.
- Safety: Pay attention to safety during the hike, especially near cliffs and waterfalls.
- Language: There are many foreign tourists along the way, so communication is generally not a problem.
Hiking the Tiger Leaping Gorge high road is an unforgettable experience. The spectacular scenery and unique cultural experiences along the way will surely leave a deep impression on foreigners.