[Yubeng + Tiger Leaping Gorge High Trail] | Lijiang | Meili Snow Mountain | Yubeng | Ice Lake | Sacred Waterfall | Tiger Leaping Gorge High Trail

Activity Description

▷Activity Type: Light Outdoor Hiking

▷Recommendation Index: ★★★★★

▷Difficulty Level: ★★★

▷Minimum Group Size: 2 people to start, 12 people to complete the trip

▷Activity Schedule: Departing from Lijiang in 2026, daily departures

▷Suitable for: Healthy outdoor enthusiasts with hiking gear.

▷【Children's Price Information】

1.Children under 1.2 meters tall, without a bed (sharing a bed with an adult), enjoy free admission, free breakfast, and include a seat on the vehicle, insurance, complimentary items, and experience activities.

2.Children exceeding the height limit but under 12 years old, without a bed, will need to pay for the corresponding admission ticket and breakfast.

3.If a bed is required, a bed fee (including breakfast) will apply.

4.Special Note: Children do not occupy a bed (sharing a bed with an adult). However, if you are traveling with one adult and one child, to avoid disturbing you and other guests in the same room, the child must occupy a bed and pay the bed fee (including breakfast).

5.Tour Type: 2-8 person mini group tour

6.Please check with customer service in advance to confirm availability.

Ticket Discount Information:

If you hold a senior citizen card, military officer card, soldier card, disability card, student card, national-level journalist card, or other special identification, please present it to the staff before purchasing tickets. Discounts will be applied according to local policies, and any applicable price difference will be refunded on-site.

Single Room Supplement Information:

Based on the order of registration, the hotel will naturally share 2-3 person rooms. Each room can only accommodate 2-3 adults and no more than 2 children. If you require a single room, you will need to pay the corresponding single room supplement. Please be aware of this!

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Lijiang → Dukezong Ancient Town → Yila Grassland → Benzilan → Jinsha River Moon Bay → Baima Snow Mountain → Feilai Temple

▷Accommodation: Deqin Preferred Comfort Hotel; Meals at your own expense

▷Distance: Approx. 340km, Driving time: Approx. 6 hours

▷Altitude: Approx. 3400m

After breakfast, depart from Lijiang and head to the Shangri-La hidden gem described in James Hilton's "Lost Horizon." Along the way, pass through Tiger Leaping Gorge Town and the Haba Snow Mountain viewing platform, enjoying panoramic views of the majestic snow-capped peaks. Arrive at Dukezong Ancient Town, one of China's best-preserved Tibetan residential architectural complexes and a vital town on the ancient Tea Horse Road. Stroll along the cobblestone streets, touch the rustic texture of the Tibetan architecture, and experience the profound cultural heritage of Tibet.

After picking up our companions in Shangri-La, we continued to Napa Lake in Yila Grassland. The grassland and lake complemented each other beautifully, offering panoramic views of the Tibetan landscape. After lunch in Nixi and Benzilan, we arrived at Moon Bay on the Jinsha River. The golden river forms a stunning "Ω"-shaped bend around the pyramid-shaped Sun Cone Peak. After visiting Moon Bay, we entered the heart of the Baimang Snow Mountain, passing through a snow tunnel and enjoying views of continuous peaks and vast forests. We arrived at Feilai Temple in the evening, where Meili Snow Mountain was visible from our window. We were fortunate to witness the sunset's afterglow, with the radiant glow spreading across the mountain peaks – a golden moment for photography. Capture this breathtaking mountain scenery!

Important Notes for Today

The entire journey is along winding mountain roads in western Yunnan, and the drive is quite long. Please bring your own pillows, motion sickness medication, etc.

The altitude will gradually increase to 3400m today. Upon arrival at high altitude, avoid strenuous exercise and alcohol consumption. Drink plenty of warm water to prevent mild altitude sickness.

The wind will be strong in Feilai Temple in the evening. Bring a windproof jacket and dress warmly when watching the sunset over the snow-capped mountains.

Shangri-La team members should assemble at the time and place designated by the tour leader. Do not be late.

Day 2: Meili Snow Mountain Sunrise → Lancang River Bridge → Ninong Grand Canyon Hiking → Yubeng Village

▷Accommodation: Comfortable guesthouse in Yubeng Village; Meals at your own expense

▷Distance: Approx. 35km, driving time approx. 1 hour

▷Hiking: Approx. 14km, time: approx. 6-7 hours

▷Altitude: Yubeng Village approx. 3050m

Get up early to witness the Meili Snow Mountain Sunrise, a classic spectacle of Kawagebo, the foremost of the eight sacred mountains in Tibet. As the first rays of sunlight pierce the morning mist, painting the snow-capped peaks with dazzling golden light, the breathtaking scenery is truly awe-inspiring, a dream for countless travelers to western Yunnan.

After breakfast, we'll cross the Lancang River Bridge and arrive at Ninong in about an hour, beginning our Ninong Grand Canyon trek. This ancient path, carved into the cliffs by our ancestors, is a classic route into Yubeng. The trek is approximately 14km, mainly consisting of gentle mountain paths and riverside trails, with a total elevation gain of about 800m. Sheer cliffs rise on both sides, and the Lancang River rushes below; every step reveals a breathtaking panorama of mountains and wilderness. After about 3.5 hours of trekking, we'll rest at a supply point to replenish water and energy. We'll then continue along the road, enjoying the picturesque scenery of snow-capped mountains, streams, and Tibetan villages – a truly pristine landscape.

In the evening, we'll arrive at Yubeng Village, a small village nestled amidst the Meili Snow Mountain, a "paradise on earth" for outdoor enthusiasts. We'll check into a characteristic Tibetan-style guesthouse and freely experience the slow pace of life beneath the snow-capped peaks.

Important Notes for Today

To see the sunrise over the mountains, you need to get up early. Temperatures can drop to 0-5℃ in the early morning, so please wear a thick coat, hat, and gloves to keep warm.

Some sections of the Ninong Grand Canyon trail run along cliff edges. When hiking, stay on the inner side and do not approach or climb over the railings. Watch your step for loose rocks.

There are no shortcuts on this entire hike. Follow the leader's pace and do not act alone. Maintain social distancing. Supply points along the way only provide basic food; you may bring your own energy bars and chocolate.

Upon reaching Yubeng Village, the altitude will be approximately 3050m. If you experience altitude sickness symptoms such as dizziness or chest tightness, please inform the leader immediately.

Yubeng Village is a Tibetan village; please respect local customs and traditions. Do not trample on prayer flags or mani stones.

Day3: Yubeng Village → Xiaonong Base Camp → Ice Lake → Return to Yubeng Village

▷Accommodation: Comfortable inn in Yubengcun; provide your own meals

▷Hiking: about 16km, time: about 7 hours

▷Altitude: Yubeng Village is about 3050m, Ice Lake is about 3800m

In the early morning, we set off from Yubeng Village after breakfast and started hiking on Ice Lake. The whole journey is about 16km, with a total climb of about 1200m. The first half of the hike goes through high-altitude virgin forests and rhododendron forests, with lush vegetation and gurgling streams. It takes 2 hours of hiking to cross the Nanzong Pass at an altitude of 3900 meters. The pass is the highest point of the whole journey. After climbing to the top, you can overlook the panoramic view of Yubeng and the mountain scenery.

After a short rest, we continued our descent to Xiaonong Base Camp, which was originally built in 1991 by a joint Chinese-Japanese mountaineering team during their ascent of Kawagebo, the main peak of Meili Snow Mountain. That year, all 17 mountaineers perished on their way to the summit, making it the second deadliest mountaineering tragedy in history. Today, it serves as the only supply station on the Ice Lake route, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and vast meadows, making it a must-visit destination for trekkers to Yubeng.

After resting and replenishing water at base camp, continue along the snow mountain trail towards the glacial lake. The last kilometer is a scree slope, requiring a slow and careful pace. It takes approximately 1.5 hours to reach the glacial lake, a lake formed by melting snow from the Meili Snow Mountain glacier. Known as the sacred lake of Meili Snow Mountain, its waters are crystal clear and turquoise, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, creating a truly immersive experience. After taking plenty of photos, return to Yubeng Village via the same route. The path is mostly downhill, so be mindful of your pace. Arrive at your guesthouse in the evening to rest and relax.

Important Notes for Today:

The hike is lengthy and involves significant elevation gain. Wear non-slip, waterproof hiking shoes and bring trekking poles (to conserve energy) and knee pads (to protect your knees).

The Nan Zong Pass and Ice Lake area are at an altitude of 3800-3900m. Temperatures are low and winds are strong; dress warmly to prevent hypothermia.

The scree slopes are rugged and slippery. Slow down, avoid horseplay, and prevent sprains or falls.

Signal is unstable throughout the hike. Do not stray from the group. Stay close to the leader, follow the marked route, and avoid entering undeveloped areas.

Bring sufficient drinking water (2-3L) and high-energy snacks. There is only one aid station. Take your trash with you and practice Leave No Trace.

Day 4: Yubeng Village → Sacred Waterfall → Return to Yubeng Village

▷Accommodation: Comfortable guesthouse in Yubeng Village; Meals at your own expense

▷Hiking: Approx. 14km, Time: Approx. 5-6 hours

▷Altitude: Yubeng Village approx. 3050m, Sacred Waterfall approx. 3800m

Departing from Yubeng Village at 8:00 AM, the trek to the Sacred Waterfall begins. The entire route is approximately 14km, with a cumulative elevation gain of approximately 900m. The overall route consists mainly of gentle forest trails and alpine pastures, with a lower difficulty level than the Ice Lake route. Crossing the Yubeng River and passing through Lower Yubeng Village, you'll walk amidst verdant mountains and clear waters. Prayer flags flutter and mani stones stand tall, each a testament to the devout prayers of the Tibetan people. This is a trek to faith.

The trek traverses pristine primeval forests and alpine pastures, lush with vegetation and filled with birdsong and fragrant flowers. Along the way, you may encounter yaks and horses grazed by local Tibetans. Continuing onward to the foot of the Sacred Waterfall, a sacred waterfall formed by meltwater from Meili Snow Mountain and a pilgrimage site for Tibetans, the snowmelt cascades down from the sky, creating a misty atmosphere where you can receive a baptism of holy water (it is recommended to bring a waterproof jacket to avoid getting your clothes soaked), purifying your mind and body. At the same time, you will have a panoramic view of the Goddess Peak and the Five Crown Peaks, where the majestic snow-capped mountains and the power of faith and nature intertwine. After completing the tour, return to Yubeng Village along the same route to rest.

Important Notes for Today

The trek to the sacred waterfall primarily follows forest trails, some of which are muddy. Wear waterproof hiking shoes and bring waterproof bags to protect your phone and camera.

When receiving the sacred water, do not stand directly under the waterfall to avoid being swept away by the strong current. Proceed according to your physical capabilities.

In the high-altitude pasture area, there are Tibetan prayer flags and mani stones. Respect local beliefs and do not touch or damage them.

The trek itself is relatively easy, and you can stop to take photos as needed, but please manage your time to avoid returning in the evening after dark.

Nighttime temperatures in Yubeng Village are low. Change into dry clothes promptly after returning to avoid catching a cold.

Day 5: Yubeng Village → Hike through Ninong Grand Canyon → Shangri-La/Lijiang

▷Accommodation: Comfortable hotel in Shangri-La (or Lijiang); Meals at your own expense

▷Hike: Approx. 12km, Time: Approx. 4-5 hours

▷Distance: Approx. 190km, Driving distance: 12km

▷Altitude: Approx. 3050-3350m

After breakfast, depart from Yubeng Village and begin the return hike along the Ninong Grand Canyon. The route is mainly a gentle descent, with a total descent of approximately 700m. Compared to the breathtaking experience on the way up, the return journey allows for a more intimate appreciation of the canyon's beauty, with its winding river and verdant mountains. Each step is a memorable turn of the head, bidding farewell to this hidden mountain paradise. Continue to Shangri-La or Lijiang, a driving time of approximately 6 hours. Arrive in the evening and check into a comfortable hotel. Enjoy free time to stroll through Dukezong Ancient Town or Lijiang Ancient Town, and sample local delicacies such as Tibetan butter tea and Lijiang cured pork ribs to relieve the fatigue of the past few days of hiking.

Day 6: Shangri-La/Lijiang → Tiger Leaping Gorge → Tea Horse Inn → High Road Hiking → Halfway → Dragon Cave Waterfall → Tina's → Lijiang (Disband)

▷Accommodation: None; Meals: On your own

▷Distance: Approx. 188km, Driving time: Approx. 4h

▷Hiking: Approx. 8km, Time: Approx. 3-4h

▷Altitude: Approx. 1980m

After breakfast, depart from Shangri-La/Lijiang, arriving at Tiger Leaping Gorge Town in approximately 1.5 hours. Proceed to Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the world's top ten classic hiking routes and one of China's deepest gorges. The Jinsha River rushes forward between Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Haba Snow Mountain, its waves crashing against the shore with magnificent power.

After driving to the Tiger Leaping Gorge High Road Tea Horse Inn, the guide led us through warm-up exercises before starting our hike along the Tiger Leaping Gorge High Road. This is the most classic hiking section of Tiger Leaping Gorge, approximately 8km long with a cumulative elevation gain of about 500m. The trail primarily follows the gorge ridge, and the terrain is flat and easy to walk. Hiking atop the gorge, you'll be surrounded by sheer cliffs on one side and breathtaking views of the river and sky on the other. The peaks of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Haba Snow Mountain range are spread out before you, the sounds of wind, water, and the gorge itself blending together, creating an immersive experience of nature's grandeur.

After about a 2-hour hike, we arrived at Halfway and checked out the famous "So Cool Balcony"—the Tiger Leaping Gorge viewing ceiling. Sitting on the balcony, directly facing the gorge scenery, watching the sunset over the mountains and sea, capturing the profound meaning of the landscape, we sealed a uniquely romantic moment in Tiger Leaping Gorge. After a short rest, we continued our journey, passing the Dragon Cave Waterfall, a superb vantage point in Tiger Leaping Gorge. The waterfall cascades down from a great height, like a white dragon weaving through the gorge, its powerful flow and majestic roar truly awe-inspiring. We finally arrived at Tina's, concluding our Tiger Leaping Gorge hike. Afterwards, we returned to Lijiang by car, marking the successful end of our hiking trip.

Important Notes for Today

1.The Tiger Leaping Gorge trail runs along cliff edges. When hiking, stay on the inner side and do not climb over the guardrails. Be careful where you step when taking photos.

2.The entire hike is sunny with strong ultraviolet radiation at high altitudes. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat, and reapply sunscreen frequently.

3.Today is the last day of the trip. After the hike, please pack all your belongings carefully and do not leave anything behind at the hotel/on the vehicle.

4.The return journey to Lijiang takes approximately 2.5 hours. Those returning must book flights/trains departing after 9 PM to allow sufficient buffer time and avoid missing flights/trains due to traffic congestion, weather, or other factors.

5.After the tour concludes, if you wish to stay in Lijiang, consult the tour leader for local sightseeing and dining suggestions. Please pay attention to your personal safety.

Special Note: For those returning today, it is recommended to book return flights departing after 9 PM.

Booking Notes

1. As the organizer and executor of the activity, our company reserves the right to use all photos, videos, and other materials taken during the trip.

2. This activity involves outdoor hiking, long-distance travel, and thrill rides. Participants must ensure they are in good health and fit for travel. Those with high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, infectious diseases, respiratory diseases, mental illness, severe anemia, those recovering from major surgery, those with mobility impairments, and pregnant women are not permitted to participate. Those registering on behalf of others must accurately verify the health status of the person being registered for to ensure they meet the requirements of this tour.

3. According to relevant tourism laws, minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a guardian who is responsible for their care throughout the tour.

4. This activity does not accept unregistered participants (including unregistered infants). For the health of others and the experience of the activity, pets are not allowed.

5. Please provide accurate and complete information as required by the system when registering to avoid booking errors that may affect your trip. You will be solely responsible for any losses caused by incorrect information provided.

6. Room assignments will be based on accommodation availability. Room sharing is generally for same-sex group members. If you require a room with family/friends, please inform staff after registration. If you are registering alone and require a single room, please contact staff to confirm availability. If available, the single room supplement will be borne by the traveler.

7. If you hold special documents that may qualify for discounts, such as military officer ID, press card, disability certificate, senior citizen card, student ID, or medical certificate, please contact staff within one day of registration and submit the relevant documents. Discounted tickets are issued by the travel agency and will be refunded based on the travel agency's discounted price, not the attraction's listed price.

8. Some attractions may require advance ticket reservations using the traveler's personal information (the identification document must match the ticket document). If an attraction is unavailable due to sold-out tickets or other objective reasons, our company will arrange alternative attractions for you, with refunds or additional charges as needed.

9. Due to weather and seasonal changes, the scenery of the attractions mentioned in the itinerary may not be consistent with what is shown in the activity description. By registering, tourists acknowledge and understand this.

10. The tour guide shown on the activity description page may not be the final actual tour leader. The company reserves the right to make adjustments based on the actual situation and activity arrangements. By registering, tourists acknowledge and understand this.

11. During the actual trip, with the consent of the guests, the tour leader may make appropriate adjustments to the itinerary based on weather, traffic, and other conditions (such as adjusting the order of attractions or changing the meeting time) to ensure the smooth progress of the trip.

12. In the event of force majeure, such as traffic delays, strikes, weather, aircraft or train malfunctions, flight cancellations or changes in flight times, airport closures, scenic spot closures, or events that the travel agency or its service providers could not avoid despite exercising reasonable care, the company will make every effort to assist with itinerary changes. Any price difference will be refunded or charged accordingly.

13. If the activity is cancelled before departure or midway due to force majeure, the remaining itinerary will be cancelled, as stipulated in the "Travel Contract." The activity fee will be refunded to the original payment account after deducting any non-refundable payments already made to the service providers.

14. If a tourist withdraws from the activity midway for personal reasons, a departure agreement must be signed. All safety responsibilities and expenses incurred after leaving the group will be borne by the tourist. During the period of separation, any unused and refundable expenses included in the tour fee will be refunded to the tourist, with the actual refund amount calculated based on the travel agency's discounted price. Expenses already paid to the service providers that are non-refundable will not be refunded to the tourist.

15. During the activity itinerary, there may be shopping venues not arranged by our company in scenic spots, restaurants, rest areas, etc. We remind you to consume rationally and obtain receipts. Any disputes arising from consumption will be resolved between you and the merchants selling the goods.

16. A travel accident insurance policy is provided upon registration, effective during the activity period. Insurance claim hotline: See policy.

17.Lijiang Municipal Government Service Hotline: 0888-12345. Service Agreement

After registering for and paying for the activity, if a participant requests a refund or change due to personal reasons (due to force majeure "including but not limited to natural and social causes, such as natural disasters, war, terrorist activities, riots, strikes, public emergencies, traffic delays, strikes, coups, road blockages, vehicle breakdowns, car malfunctions, attraction closures, flight cancellations, local government actions, etc."), the following refund and change policy will apply (Note: Group airfare is non-refundable, only taxes will be refunded; accommodation fees, meal fees, and entrance fees, if tickets have been issued before departure, are non-refundable).

1. Full refund for cancellations made 5 days or more before departure;

2. Refund for cancellations made 3 to 4 days before departure (inclusive) after deducting 30% of the activity fee;

3. Refund for cancellations made 2 to 3 days before departure (inclusive) after deducting 50% of the activity fee;

4. Refund for cancellations made 1 to 2 days before departure (inclusive) after deducting 70% of the activity fee;

5. Refund for cancellations made on the day of departure (the day of departure);

6. Refund for cancellations made during the trip only for unused entrance fees and accommodations.