7 Days Shangri-La Tour with Hiking in Meili Snow Mountain & Yubeng Village

Day-by-day Itinerary

1. Day 1: Arrival in Shangri-La

   Upon landing at Diqing Shangri-La Airport, the local guide and driver will meet you and transfer you to the hotel for check-in.

   Meal: N/A

   Accommodation: in Shangri-La

2. Day 2: Shangri-La Exploration Tour
   Learn about the Splendid Tibetan Cultural Heritage

   After breakfast, start today’s Shangri-La highlights tour from Songzanlin Monastery, the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan. There are many majestic Buddhist architecture, blending elements of ancient Chinese, Tibetan and Indian cultures. Observe precious Buddhist artifacts such as Buddha statues, thangkas, and scriptures. Also witness religious ceremonies such as chanting and debating activities.

   

   Then move to Pudacuo National Park, which boasts lakes, wetlands, forested meadows and various wildlife. A shuttle bus and boat will take you to the wonderful Shudu Lake and Bita Lake. Stroll along the shores and immerse yourself in the vivid pictures of crystal lakes, magnificent mountains and lush forests.

   In the afternoon, visit a traditional Tibetan family. Talk with the Tibetan people to learn about their customs and taste the delicious Tibetan cuisine, such as yak butter tea.

   Later head to Dukezong Ancient Town, the largest Tibetan residential area in China. Wander through the ancient city, admire the ancient Tibetan architecture. Observe traces left by the ancient caravans, such as horseshoe prints and saddles. Also climb up to the top of Guishan Hill to overlook the panoramic view of the ancient city.

   Meal: Breakfast + Lunch

   Accommodation: in Shangri-La

   

3. Day 3: Shangri-La to Meili Snow Mountain Tour
   Witness Diverse Natural Landscapes

   Depart Shangri-La for Deqin County, the gateway to the Meili Snow Mountains, one of China’s most spectacular mountains.

   On the way, visit the First Bend of the Yangtze River. The Yangtze River turns suddenly at Shasongbi Village in Shangri-La, forming a rare V-shaped bend. Capture stunning scene created by the magnificent mountains and the sparkling river around you. Then stop at Dongzhulin Monastery, one of the earliest birthplaces of Tibetan Buddhism. Explore the rich Buddhist artifacts here including Buddhist temples, murals, thangkas, and stupas.

   After passing through the Baima Snow Mountain Nature Reserve, reach the Feilai Temple, the great location to admire Meili Snow Mountain. Check in at the hotel near Feilai Temple and have a short rest.

   In the evening, watch the magnificent sunset over the Meili Snow Mountain. The snow mountains turn golden in the sunlight and form a beautiful picture with 13 white Tibetan pagodas in front of the mountain.

   Meal: Breakfast + Lunch

   Accommodation: Near Feilai Temple

   

4. Day 4: Feilaisi Temple to Upper Yubeng Village Hiking Tour
   Treacherous and Breathtaking Hiking Trails

   Today brings a full day of hiking in the Yubeng Valley, a hidden gem nestled at the base of the Meili Snow Mountain. Accessible only by foot or horse, the valley treats you to breathtaking views of glaciers, waterfalls, forests, and meadows.

   In the morning, start your Yubeng Valley hiking tour. Located at the foot of the Meili Snow Mountain, Yubeng Valley is a popular destination for trekkers, known for its profound Tibetan culture and pristine natural scenery.

   Wake up early to admire the sunrise over Meili Snow Mountain from the Feilaisi Observation Deck. Capture the spectacular views of snow mountains and immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere.

   After breakfast, drive to Xidang Spring. Follow a well-marked trail that gradually ascends along the Xidang River, a tributary of the Lancang River. On the way, pass through small villages and enjoy the views created by clear rivers and towering cliffs.

   After hiking for about 3 hours, reach Nanzong Pass, the highest point of the trail. Overlook the wonderful view of Meili Snow Mountain and Yubeng Valley. Observe the prayer flags and stone piles that symbolize Tibetan culture and religion. Take a short break here and have some snacks to replenish your energy.

   Descend from Nanzong Pass and head to Upper Yubeng Village, today’s hiking destination. Follow your local guide closely as the trail is very steep. Admire magnificent waterfalls, sparkling streams and lush forests along the way.

   Finally arrive at Upper Yubeng village surrounded by snow mountains. Check in to local guesthouse for a rest.

   Meal: Breakfast + Lunch

   Accommodation: Guesthouse at Upper Yubeng Village

   

5. Day 5: Yubeng Village to Ice Lake Hiking Tour
   Marvel at the Wonderful Natural Scenery

   After breakfast, continue your trekking tour of Yubeng Village.

   The first stop is Xiaonong Base Camp. Walk through the forest trails to enjoy peaceful nature landscapes. Wander along the wooden bridge over the stream to observe the clear water and green trees. Arrival at the Xiaonong Base Camp with many tents and horses.

   Later, move to Ice Lake. Climb up the steep slopes and marvel at the stunning snowy landscape. Pass by small lakes and waterfalls to witness the picturesque scenery. Arrive at Ice Lake, a huge lake reflecting the Kawagebo Peak and glaciers. You can take a stroll here and enjoy the magnificent views of the surrounding lake and mountains.

   After the visit, hike for about 2 hours back to Upper Yubeng Village. Descend along the same trail to Xiaonong Base Camp and then hike back to Upper Yubeng. Here you can enjoy a delicious lunch.

   Continue the adventure with a one-hour hike from Upper Yubeng to Lower Yubeng. Follow the trail along the Yubeng River and observe the gurgling river, varied rocks and lush vegetation.

   Arrive at Lower Yubeng village, which is more vibrant than Upper Yubeng. Check into a local guesthouse for a rest.

   Meal: Breakfast + Lunch

   Accommodation: Guesthouse at Lower Yubeng Village

   

6. Day 6: Yubeng Valley to Sacred Waterfall Hiking Tour
   Enjoy the Sacred and Beautiful View of the Waterfall

   Today, hike from Yubeng Valley to Sacred Waterfall, a picturesque spot. After a stunning sunrise and breakfast, we will hike to the Sacred Waterfall. Follow the trail to enjoy the spectacular snow mountains and crystal rivers along the way.

   

   After hiking for about 2 hours, reach the Sacred Waterfall, a sacred site for the Tibetan people. This waterfall is formed by the gathering of melted snow from the majestic Kawagebo Peak. You can make a wish and pray here. Spend some time circling three times, a ritual often performed by pilgrims to show respect and devotion to the mountain gods. Also immerse yourself in the beautiful pictures of gushing waterfalls, vast meadow and vivid rainbows.

   Finally hike back to Lower Yubeng Village along the same trail.

   Meal: Breakfast + Lunch

   Accommodation: Guesthouse at Lower Yubeng Village

7. Day 7: Lower Yubeng to Ninong Grand Canyon Hiking Tour, Shangri-La Departure
   Experience an Exciting Canyon Hike

   After breakfast, trek from Lower Yubeng to Ninong Bridge, which takes 4 hours. Travel through the Ninong Grand Canyon, a deep and narrow canyon carved by the Ninong River. Observe steep cliffs, mysterious caves, and soaring waterfalls. Explore ancient rock paintings and carvings, which are great relics of the region’s civilizations.

   

   Upon arrival at Ninong Bridge, your driver and guide will pick you up for the 4-hour drive to Shangri-La. The 7-day Shangri-La hiking tour in Meili Snow Mountain and Yubeng Village ends here.

   In the afternoon, your guide and driver will escort you to Diqing Shangri-La Airport for your departure.

   Meal: Breakfast

   Accommodation: N/A