One Day Middle Tiger Leaping Gorge Hiking Tour from Lijiang
Tour Overview
Discover the magnificent Tiger Leaping Gorge, a river canyon that ranks among the world’s deepest, and a highlight of any Lijiang tour or Yunnan adventure tour. This full-day journey combines dramatic landscapes, cultural heritage, and immersive outdoor experiences, offering travelers a complete look at the upper Yangtze region.
Start off with the breathtaking First Bend of the YangtzeĀ where the gigantic river takes its most characteristic V turn, to be followed by a stroll through the Shigu TownĀ that was once a very crucial place on the Tea Horse Road. One may go for optional rafting to get to the village of Longpan which would be a rarest opportunity to witness nature closely during the Lijiang day tour.
After this, the traveler would be taken to the Middle Tiger Leaping GorgeĀ where one has a chance to follow the trekking route starting from Tinaās Hostel leading to the very narrowest and powerful section of the gorge and then relaxing in the quietness of the Walnut Garden. This trail has it all – fun, visuals, and culture which is why it is perfect for those who want to experience the best of Yunnan in an unforgettable way.
Travel destination: Tiger Leaping Gorge
Suitable for: Hikers, Adventurers
Tour type: Private
Highlights of this tour:
- Take a hike along the middle part of Tiger Leaping Gorge! It’s seriously one of the deepest, most awesome canyons anywhere.
- Get to see the Jinsha RiverĀ where it’s super narrow, with crazy high cliffs and crazy rapids.
- Pay a visit to the remoteĀ Walnut Garden, meet the local Naxi people, and be surrounded by huge mountains.
Day-by-day Itinerary
- Day 1: Middle Tiger Leaping Gorge Hiking from Lijiang
The early morning will see the pick-up of you and your guide, as well as your driver, from your Lijiang hotel, kicking off this one-day trip. Upon our meeting, we take the northwestern route leading us to the First Bend of the Yangtze River, stopping after a little over an hour and a half of traveling. You can witness the longest river in China make a spectacular V-shaped turn here. From the viewing area, take in the splendid scenery of the mountains, cliffs and fields that have all been altered by the sudden turn of the river.
The First Bend of Yangtze River Just a few steps away, you can roam around the Shigu Ancient TownĀ which is a ālucrative placeāĀ for wars and battles among the most brilliant military strategists in history. The town got its name from a white marble drum-shaped stone tablet that is located in the town. You can visit the old iron chain bridge, the riverside shrine, and the charming cobbled streets that still have the charm of many centuries ago.
There is the option of an additional rafting adventureĀ at the First Bend destination with the trip to Longpan Village as the alternative. Rafting on the upper Yangtze is a one-of-a-kind chance that brings you up close to the riverās might and the view of the canyon which cannot be observed from the road.
Afterwards, continue the drive for roughly 40 kilometers to the world-famous Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the deepest river canyons on earth. Travel along the river, watching the landscape grow increasingly dramatic as towering peaks rise more than 3,000 meters above the rushing Jinsha River. Arrive at Tinaās Hostel in the middle section of the gorge, where your trekking route begins.
Tinaās Hostel in the middle section of the gorge Your hike takes you to the narrowest part of Tiger Leaping Gorge, where the loud river flows through the rocky passage. Take the trail next to the rushing waterĀ and let the sound of the rapids come through your feet. After that, the way leads to the Walnut Garden, which is situated in the valley between Yulong Snow Mountain and Haba Snow Mountain. The village was called so as walnut trees were planted there in large numbers. The beautiful area has the amazing contrasts of the power of nature in its wildest form and tranquil village life.
After completing the trek, meet your driver for the journey back to Lijiang.
Tips:
- Be sure to wear professional hiking shoes.
- Please bring your own lunch in advance.
Rushing Water of Middle Tiger Leaping Gorge
Tour Price Per Person
The price varies depending on the activity, number of people, travel date, and selected hotel. Please contact us for a specific price.


