6-Day Lijiang to Shangri-La Adventure Tour

Wander This Land on Foot

Lijiang and Shangri-La are Yunnan's premier destinations for adventurers, embodying the spirit Joseph Rock pioneered. Their stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage provide an unforgettable journey.

This 6-day itinerary will lead you off the beaten path to discover the hidden gems of nature. Experience the perfect blend of adventure, natural beauty and cultural immersion.

Utilize our complimentary itinerary planning service to design your own Lijiang and Shangri-La adventure.

Suggested Yunnan Adventure Tour

Day Highlights
1-2
Lijiang
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Yuhu Village
3-6
Shangri-La
Tiger Leaping Gorge Trekking, Songzanlin, Napahai Cycling, Qianhu Hiking

Lijiang to Shangri-La Adventure Tour Map

 Lijiang to Shangri-La Adventure Tour

Tour 'Wow' Points

Hike Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

Skip the tourist crowds and enjoy the exclusive views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain that only hikers can experience by trekking through the bushes and wading across a little stream.

valley with snow
snow mountain

Cycle around Napahai

Cycle 1.5 hours through Napahai's varied landscapes. Enjoy smooth biking, conquer challenges, and end with stunning water views at Waxihai Cafe.

purple meadow
walking people in the purple flowers

Conquer the Tiger Leaping Gorge

Trek through Tiger Leaping Gorge and awaken by the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain rising majestically to your right and the Jinsha River winding its way through the valley below.

Haba Snow Mountain
Tiger Leaping Gorge hiking

Experience the Songzanlin Monastery

Discover the spiritual heart of the region at Songzanlin Monastery and participate in a blessing ceremony. Gain insight into local customs and the significance of this monastery.

Hang prayer flags
the coloerful prayer flags

Venture into Qianhu Mountains

Hike through the Qianhu Mountains' diverse landscapes, visit a herder's home, and witness the beauty of the Sanbi Sea and Black Sea.

a lama with red cloth
give a white ribbon to a lama

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Itinerary Quick Look

Here is a suggested itinerary. We are happy to customize a tour to suit your interests.

DAY 1 Lijiang Arrival

Welcome to Lijiang! Our guide will greet you in the arrival hall and transfer you to the hotel, helping with check-in and making your stay comfortable.

DAY 2 Lijiang | Pilgrimage to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
Breakfast & Lunch

Meet your private guide and enjoy a pleasant transfer to the picturesque Yuhu Village.

Troll through the Yuhu Village, visit Rock's Former Home, where Joseph Rock resided for 27 years, and immerse yourself in his captivating tales of adventure.

Hike from Yuhu Lake to the Sansi River, sourced from snow-capped mountains. Explore Bahe, known as "Frog's Pool," and ascend to Ganheba's vast meadow with a dry stream. Enjoy the Milk River's milky appearance and panoramic views of snow-capped mountains. Conclude the hiking at the Snow Sea, transitioning from a frozen look to vibrant blue waters in the rainy season.

The hike covers approximately 12.5 km (7.7 miles) with a 600-meter (2,000 feet) ascent and typically takes around 5½ hours.

Return to your hotel in the charming Lijiang Ancient Town after the excursion.

DAY 3 Lijiang to Shangri-La | Great Gorge Awaits
Breakfast & Lunch

Enjoy a seamless and private transfer(with driver only) from Lijiang to Tiger Leaping Gorge.

Meet your private guide at the Ticket office of the Tiger Leaping Gorge and embark on a 1-hour hike between Tea Horse Guest House and Half-Way Guest House to admire the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain towering on your right and marvel at the Jinsha River snaking its way through the canyon floor.

Relax and recharge with a local meal in a picturesque setting.

Drive to Shangri-La on the new highway and be amazed by the beautiful scenery and another Chinese engineering marvel.

DAY 4 Shangri-La | The Spirit of Shangri-La
Breakfast & Lunch

Explore the largest Tibetan Buddhist Lamasery in Yunnan, Songzanlin. Delve into the heart of local Tibetan belief, shaped by the pure surroundings and inspiring a sense of awe.

Ascend the hill behind the Lamasery for a unique view and possibly encounter locals performing rituals. Learn about the Weisang ceremony at the pagoda, where you can tie a prayer flag and offer prayers towards Songzanlin Monastery.

Transfer to Hamugu on the eastern side of Napahai and meet your bikes.

Embark on a 1.5-hour cycling adventure through the scenic Napahai, experiencing a variety of landscapes. The initial stretch is flat and straightforward, while the second portion offers a bumpier challenge. The third and final segment rewards you with panoramic views of the Road on the Water, leading you to the charming Waxihai Cafe(coffee will be at your expense).

After the ride, return to your Shangri-La hotel.

DAY 5 Shangri-La | Hike Qianhu Mountains
Breakfast & Lunch

Enjoy a scenic transfer to the Qianhu Mountains hiking starting point near Jisha Forest Farm, nestled at approximately 3,500 meters.

Hike through the Pristine Virgin Forest and picturesque Alpine Pastures, immersing yourself in the local life by visiting a herder's home.

Continue the adventure to the breathtaking Sanbi Sea and the Black Sea, both situated at a staggering 4,000 meters above sea level. As you retrace your steps, witness the stark contrast of the Burned Forest, offering a unique perspective on nature's resilience.

Return to the hiking starting point, carrying unforgettable memories and back to Shangri-La.

DAY 6 Shangri-La Departure
Breakfast

Have some free time to stroll through Dukezong Ancient Town before a private transfer to the airport or train station for your onward journey.

Hotel Selection

—the Icing on the Cake

Boutique hotels are recommended to enrich your travel experience.

the coutyard of the hotel
the night view the hotel
the bed  room of the hotel
US$1,339 p/p Based on a private tour for 2 people. Price varies depending on program, travel date, number of people and chosen hotel

Price includes:

  • Private air-conditioned business car with big windows and ample space
  • English-speaking local guides
  • Activities, hotels, and meals listed in the itinerary
  • A 24/7 helpline is available throughout your trip

Tour code: lj-4

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