Tiger Leaping Gorge

Introduction to Tiger Leaping Gorge (虎跳峡)

Being one of world famous grand canyons, Tiger-Leaping Gorge Scenic Spot is the best destination for exploration and self-challenge becuase of its profundity, steepness, beauty and uniqueness. 

The Tiger Leaping Gorge is situated approximately 100 kilometers from Lijiang and is a natural preservation UNESCO World Heritage Site. The gorge is said to be the deepest canyon in the world and is one of the most distinctive geological wonders of the world. 

The Tiger Leaping Gorge is ideal for trekking with the most magnificent views, also known as the “First Gorge of the Yangtze River”. It sure does live up to its name. The entire gorge is 20 kilometers in length and is regarded as one of the top hiking routes in China. The canyon is located where the river passes between Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Haba Snow Mountain in a series of rapids under steep 2000m cliffs.  Tiger leaping gorge hiking is one of the best ways to enjoy the great outdoors! 

Tiger Leaping Gorge is a canyon on the Yangtze River or the Golden Sands River, around 15km in length, the canyon is located where the river passes between Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Haba Snow Mountain in a series of rapids under steep 2000m cliffs. 

The inhabitants of the gorge are primarily the indigenous Naxi people, who live in a handful of small hamlets. Their primary subsistence comes from grain production and foreign hikers. The gorge is not considered navigable. In the early 1980s, four rafters attempted to go down the gorge and were never seen again. In 1986, the first known successful attempt to sail through the gorge was made by the first expedition to float down the entire length of the Yangtze, starting at the river's high source at the Gelandandong glacier lake.

Location

Hutiao Town, Shangri-la, Yunnan Province (100 kilometers northwest of Lijiang Ancient Town, between the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Haba Snow Mountain)

Main Sights

The majestic canyons, Tiger Leaping Stone, walk through Tiger Leaping Gorge, climb over the Baha Snow Mountain

Travel Information

Opening Hours: 9:00am~6:00pm

Admission Fee: 80 yuan

Visiting Time: 2~3 hours

Best Time to Visit: April to June, September to October

Transportation 

1. From Lijiang: There are two regular buses departing at 8:00am and 8:30am to Hutiao Town (about 23 yuan).

2. From Shangri-la: There are several regular buses to Hutiao Town (about 20 yuan).

Travel Tips 

1. Carry with T-shirt and shorts while hiking for the daytime temperature is high at canyons.

2. Do not hike during the rainy season from June to September for it is likely to happen mud-rock flow and rockfall.

Tour including Visiting Tiger Leaping Gorge

10 Days Yunnan and Tibet Hiking Tour