Tiger Leaping Gorge
The Tiger Leaping Gorge is one of the biggest and deepest gorges in China and in the world. It is famous for its glorious mountains, natural wonders and precipitious gorge which make it a paradise for tourism and adventure. Located 60 km. (37 mi.) in the northeast of Yunnan Nakhi Autonomous County in the Lijiang City and about 100 km. (62 mi.) away from the Old Town of Lijiang, it is regarded as one part of the Three Parallel Rivers of Yunnan Protected Areas and a world heritage site.
The Tiger Leaping Gorge is standing at an altitude of 1.800 m. (5,906 ft.) with two high mountains on both sides of it. In the east bank it is the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, towering 5,596 m. (18,360 ft.) above the sea level and covered by snow all the year round. In the west there stands the Haba Snow Mountain with an altitude of 3,000 m. (9,843 ft.). Two mountains together with the rapid flowing water leave the gorge a magnificent and precipitous sight. If you are standing in the middle, you will surely be overwhelmed by the breathtaking beauty.
The whole Tiger Leaping Gorge can be divided into three parts: the up gorge, mid gorge and down gorge. The up gorge is the narrowest and uppermost section and is the mouth of the fast flowing Jingsha River. There is big rock in the middle of rapid flowing stream dividing the water into two parts and leaving great waves shaking the sky. It is said that once there was a tiger stepping on this rock and having leapt from Yulong Mountain to Haba Mountain, thus the gorge getting its name.
The middle gorge is about 5 km. (3 mi.) away from the up gorge and there are many rocks towering in the rapid water, which is the precipitous area in the gorge. When the water rush down to the lowest area, it get to the down gorge which is the best place to savor the beautiful scenery of Tiger Leaping Gorge. It is an ideal place to adventure and you can only get the exciting feeling unless you see it in your own eyes.
The Tiger Leaping Gorge has been regarded as the top ten beautiful places in China and a paradise for tourism. If you want to come here for adventure, it is recommended that you take a bus from Lijiang City or hike here to enjoy the beautiful scenic spots along the way. But remember to bring some high calory food for hiking always require lots of energy. The entrance fee is 50 RMB and spend half a day here, you will sure enjoy yourself.
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