6 Days Lijiang to Shangri-La Adventure Tour
6-Day Lijiang to Shangri-La Adventure Tour
City
Lijiang
Shangri-La
Wander the Land on Foot
Lijiang and Shangri-La are the top destinations for Yunnan explorers, reflecting the spirit pioneered by Joseph Rock. Their magnificent scenery and rich cultural heritage will make for an unforgettable journey.
This 6-day itinerary will take you off the beaten track to explore nature’s hidden gems. Experience the perfect combination of adventure, natural beauty and cultural experiences.
Design your own Lijiang and Shangri-La adventure with our free itinerary planning service.
Travel Itinerary
Welcome to Lijiang! Our guide will greet you at the arrival hall and transfer you to the hotel to assist you with check-in and make your stay comfortable.
Meet your private guide and enjoy a pleasant journey to the picturesque Yuhu Village.
Wander through Yuhu Village and visit the Rock House where Joseph Rock lived for 27 years and immerse yourself in his fascinating adventures.
From Yuhu, hike to Sanxi River, which originates from the snow-capped mountains. Explore the Ba River, known as the “Frog Pond”, and ascend the vast meadows and a dry stream at Ganheba. Admire the milky appearance of the Milk River and the panoramic view of the snow-capped mountains. End the hike at the Snow Sea, which transforms from a frozen appearance to vibrant blue waters during the rainy season.
The hike is approximately 12.5 km (7.7 mi) with an ascent of 600 m (2,000 ft) and usually takes around 5 1/2 hours.
Return to your hotel in the charming Lijiang Old Town at the end of the tour.
Enjoy a seamless private transfer from Lijiang to Tiger Leaping Gorge (with driver only).
Meet your private guide at the Tiger Leaping Gorge ticket office and then take a 1-hour hike between the Tea Horse Hotel and the Halfway Hotel, admiring the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain towering to the right and marvel at the Jinsha River winding through the bottom of the gorge.
Relax and rejuvenate with local cuisine in a picturesque setting.
Take the new highway to Shangri-La where you will be amazed by the beauty and yet another Chinese engineering marvel.
Explore Songzanlin, the largest Tibetan Buddhist temple in Yunnan. Dive deep into the heart of local Tibetan beliefs in a pristine environment and awe-inspiring atmosphere.
Climb the mountain behind the Lama Temple to enjoy unique views and a chance to meet locals performing ceremonies. Learn about the Wesang ceremony at the pagoda, where you can tie prayer flags and pray to Songzanlin Temple.
Transfer to Hamugu on the east side of Napahai and meet up with your bikes.
Embark on a 1.5-hour cycling tour through the scenic Napahai and experience a variety of landscapes. The initial section is flat and easy, while the second section is more challenging. The third and final section will give you a panoramic view of the water road and take you to the charming Wasihai Cafe (coffee at your own expense).
Return to Shangri-La Hotel after the ride.
Enjoy the scenic transfer to the starting point of the Thousand Lakes Mountain trek near Jisha Forest Farm, about 3,500 meters above sea level.
Hike through virgin forests and picturesque alpine pastures, visit herders’ homes and experience local life.
Continue your adventure to the stunning Sanbi Lake and Black Sea, both located at an astonishing 4,000 meters above sea level. As you retrace your steps, witness the stark contrast of the burned forest, giving you a unique perspective on nature’s resilience.
Return to the starting point of your hike and return to Shangri-La with unforgettable memories.
You will have some free time to stroll through the Dukezong Ancient Town before continuing your journey by private transportation to the airport or train station.
Tour 'Wow' Points
Hiking Jade Dragon Snow Mountain：
Avoid the crowds of tourists and enjoy the unique scenery of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, which can only be experienced by hikers walking through the bushes and wading through the streams.
Biking Around Napahai：
Biking for 1.5 hours through the diverse landscapes of Napahai. Enjoy a smooth ride, overcome challenges, and finally enjoy the magnificent water view at Waxihai Cafe.
Conquer Tiger Leaping Gorge：
Hike through Tiger Leaping Gorge and wake up to the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain on the right and the Jinsha River winding through the valley.
Experience Songzanlin Temple：
Explore Songzanlin Temple, feel the spiritual center of the area, and participate in the blessing ceremony. Learn about local customs and the significance of this temple.
Walk into Qianhu Mountain：
Hike through the diverse landscapes of Qianhu Mountain, visit herders’ homes, and enjoy the beauty of Sanbi Sea and Black Sea.
Inclusions / Exclusions
Inclusions:
- Admission fees: to sightseeing spots and activities specified.
- Accommodation: hotels based on double/twin occupancy as specified.
- Meals: as specified in the itinerary.
- Tour guide: excellent private English-speaking guide.
- Transfers: land transfer with drivers as specified.
- Travel Agency Liability Insurance during the tour.
- Government taxes and fees.
Exclusions
- International flights to/from China.
- China visa fees.
- Gratuities to guides and drivers and any expense of a personal nature.
- Our tour package does not include travel insurance. Please purchase travel insurance before your trip to protect for any unforeseen circumstances.
- Small group tour travelers – Airport transfer service from hotel to Xi’an Xi’anyang International Airport.
Important Information
Important information – PRIVATE TOUR
- This is a private tour for your group of family or friends. There will be no other travelers in the group apart from you.
- Smart casual dress and comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
- Prices based on twin occupancy.
- The prices shown are not valid during China’s Official Holidays (such as National Day and Chinese Spring Festival).
- Any city not included in the existing tour package can be added to this tour and taken as an addition to this Private tour.
- Entering and exiting China from Hong Kong and Taipei are also available.
- Stays at entering and exiting cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, and Taipei) can be extended.
Important information – SMALL GROUP TOUR
- This is a small group tour with a fixed itinerary and guaranteed departures.
You will travel with other people (maximum of 12). - Smart casual dress and comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
- The tour guide may adjust the itinerary due to closure of the museums each Monday.
- At the conclusion of the tour, a transfer from your hotel to Hongqiao or Pudong Airport in Shanghai is available upon request at a surcharge.
- Stays at entering and exiting cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, and Taipei) can be extended.
Prices based on twin occupancy. - The prices shown are not valid during China’s Official Holidays (such as National Day and Chinese Spring Festival).
- The maximum number of passengers in a small group tour is 12 people.
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