8 days Yunnan Tiger Leaping Gorge trekking tour

Upon your arrival at the airport or railway station of Kunming, the city of eternal spring in Yunnan province, be greeted and assisted to your hotel for rest. Known for its pleasant climate and flowers blooming all year long, Kunming is one of the best places for travelers to enjoy the scenery of Southwest China. The remainder of the first day is left for you to explore this city on your own.

Start today with a visit to the Qiongzhu Temple, the quiet and tastefully laid out Buddhist temple which is surrounded by lush and green bamboo. During nearly 1,000 years, Qiongzhu Temple has been destroyed several times. The present architectures you see are mostly built during the time of the Qing Dynasty, including the famous statues of 500 Buddhist Arhats that are highly reputed because of the vivid expressions and life-size appearances. 

Later morning, drive to the Lunan Stone Forest, a special type of Karst landform where you will see countless rock pillars, high and strangely shaped. This national park is endowed with a pleasant climate, and it is adorned with more than 400 kinds of flowers. Enjoy leisure time here this afternoon before you drive back to Kunming city.

After having dinner, you may enjoy the grand dance musical ‘Dynamic Yunnan’ which has been an outstanding innovation on the Chinese stage in recent years directed by Yang Liping. Primitive, unsophisticated folk dances and a fresh artistic concept converge in the program, giving audiences a unique 'Yunnan Impression'. 62 drums and 120 masks of strong ethnic characteristics are incorporated in the performance. (Fee is on your own).

Take the early morning bullet train to Lijiang (about 3-4 hour train ride). Known as one of the most famous ancient towns in China, Lijiang is a great place to escape from the bustling life in modern cities. Upon arrival, get settled into the hotel for a short break before you start the exploring. 

Your half day Lijiang city exploration begins with a visit to Black Dragon Pool, known for its crystal-clear springs and views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, complemented by traditional stone architecture. Afterwards explore the Dongba Museum to learn about the Naxi's Dongba culture, then stroll through Square Street at the heart of Lijiang Old Town, lined with shops offering diverse goods, restaurants, and bars. Visit Mufu, the historic residence of the Naxi's ruling Mu clan, before heading to Lion Mountain for a panoramic view of Lijiang Old Town. 

The rest of the day is for you to explore the Lijiang Ancient Town. 

Today you will visit the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Baisha Village. Resembling a jade dragon lying in the clouds, the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain offers a splendid backdrop to the tranquil town of Lijiang. Take a cable car up to a high grassland meadow (Yak Meadow), where you can witness the 13 lively peaks lively in distance. As you descend the mountain, Every step will reveal a breathtaking view. You may choose to enjoy the large cultural show 'Impression Lijiang' in the outdoor theater in front of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, which is demonstrating the traditions and lifestyles of the Naxi, Yi and Bai peoples, and takes place outdoors.

Afterward, head to Baisha Village. This village was the first settlement of Naxi people as well as the economic and political center of Lijiang for centuries. Stroll through the village and pay a visit to the most precious treasure of this village - Baisha Murals, blending the styles of Han, Tibet, and Naxi. These murals reflect that Buddhism, Taoism, and Tibetan Buddhism have coexisted harmoniously in this village for over 600 years. You will also be arranged to visit a local Naxi family to learn about their traditional culture that still in practice today. Later afternoon return to Lijiang, the rest of the day is on your own.

Tiger Leaping Gorge is considered one of the deepest gorges, nestled between Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and the Haba Mountains. In the morning, drive to Naxi Family Guesthouse, the starting point of the Tiger Leaping Gorge trekking. You will first hike for 3 hours/7KM up the steep switchbacks known as the 28 Bends. Enjoy the triumph of conquering the 28 Bends and the enchanting views over the rugged Tiger Leaping Gorge.

After lunch, hike another 2–3 hours/6KM along the trail to arrive at Halfway Guesthouse [2,430m], offering a great view of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and overlooking the Jinsha River Valley. Upon arrival, enjoy dinner and a relaxing evening at the Halfway Guesthouse.

Morning continue trekking 2 hours/9KM down to Tina's Guesthouse [2,290m], passing through several waterfalls on the way. You can choose to rest at Tina’s or continue the strenuous and challenging hike to the Tiger Leaping Stone for 3 hours. If you're scared of heights, you can skip this part.
(Hiking route: Suggest you enter from YiXiantian and walk along the lower path until Tiger Leaping Stone and take the Sky Ladder up near Tianti Guest House, or if you are adventurous, you can consider returning through the 168 steps of Yongzhe Yunti Ladder near Mr. Zhang's Inn.).
Then drive about 2 hours to Shangri-La [3,300m]. The rest of the day is left free for you to explore Dukezong Ancient Tibetan Town on your own. Stay overnight in Shangri-La.

In the morning, visit Ganden Sumtseling Monastery, the largest Buddhist monastery in Yunnan province. Known as the Small Potala Palace due to its layout and appearance being inspired by the Potala Palace, this monastery boasts a series of stunning buildings and countless Tibetan Buddhist treasures.

Next, head to Pudacuo National Park, where you will see two spectacular lakes: Bitahai Lake and Shudu Lake. Fed by streams from the surrounding snow mountains, Bitahai Lake resembles a trumpet shell and offers breathtaking views of blue waters reflecting snow-capped peaks and lush forests. At Shudu Lake, enjoy the serene beauty of lush vegetation and a variety of wild animals.

In the late afternoon, return to the town and climb Guishan Hill to see the largest Prayer Wheel in the world and take in a panoramic view of the ancient town. You will also visit a local Tibetan family to experience their lifestyle and traditions. The rest of the day is free for you to explore this ancient town at your leisure.

Today your guide and drive will pick you up from the hotel and drive to the airport for departure. Also you may consider to extend your trip further north to visit the Tibetan holy mountain Meili.