Simply dipping into Tiger Leaping Gorge as part of a tour group rarely allows visitors to fully appreciate the breathtaking beauty of the area. As such, many people set out on their own treks through the gorge, in search of breathtaking views and inspirational sights.
Although the new road through the gorge was unsuccessful (it has largely destroyed the natural harmony of the region), many people still try to trek through the whole gorge.Please note however, that the great trek is for brave, adventurous and well prepared people only.
Most trekkers begin their trip at Lijiang and take buses heading in the direction of Zhongdian, descending at Tiger Leaping Town (Hutiaoxiao Zheng) which is 90km from Lijiang. It is a good idea to spend a night in the town and rise early for the trek ahead.
From the town, cross the bridge at Qiaotouto to the other side of the Jingsha River (Yangtze), a track from here, leads up the mountain path to the summit. (2050M above sea level) The route continues up the Haba Snow Mountain, with the great river below and the Yulong Snow mountain opposite.
It should take about two hours to reach Luoyu(2400M) where the route becomes more steep, and another three hours should find you at the half way point. Bendi Wan village is a good spot for a brief rest. From here, continue down the route, passing a huge waterfall. By nightfall, you should have reached a village (it's not really a village) called Walnut Garden, a good spot to stay the night and prepare for the next day's challenge ahead of you. Although along the route there are too much stunningly beautiful scenes to see on both sides of the river, it is really dangerous to linger on the trekking route and fail to reach the Walnut Garden before it gets dark, since the route is narrow and there are no lights available.(You can rent electric torches in the town).
After a good night's sleep,continue the trek to the most dangerous part of the trek: the Slippery Talcum Plate where the route is really slippery, the slightest carelessness can be treacherous (on average 3 people a year are killed in the gorge due to carelessness and poor preparation). At the end of the slippery road, a ferry awaits, marking the final victory of the trek. After crossing to the other side of the river (RMB 10), a few kilometers walk will lead to a small town called Daju. The last bus from Daju to Lijiaing leaves at 1:30PM. If you don't make this, don't panic! There are a few guesthouses in the town itself to hole up for the night in.
Attention: It is also possible to trek the other way round by starting at Daju and ending at Tiger Leaping Town.
Although the trek is always hair-raising, in rainy season it can be a nightmare, so check out in the Cafes in Lijiang for the latest information and weather forecast.
Dongba House, The Prague Cafe,and The Sakura Cafe all have good maps drawn by forerunners. These maps are rough but really really helpful and very practical (forget the published maps there is nothing useful on them).
Remember to wear proper trekking shoes and clothes.
Cost:The General Admission fee for the area is RMB35 |
