Lijiang to Shangri-la and Stops at Tiger Leaping Gorge

Embarking on a journey from the ancient town of Lijiang to the mystical Shangri-la presents travelers with a remarkable opportunity to witness Yunnan’s natural splendor. The 180-kilometer route is punctuated by a stop at the awe-inspiring Tiger Leaping Gorge, where the Jinsha River carves a dramatic path through towering peaks. With the flexibility to explore this natural wonder at one’s own pace, the experience promises to be both comfortable and enriching. What awaits beyond the gorge’s breathtaking vistas is a captivating exploration of the region’s vibrant culture and remarkable landscapes.

Key Points

• The tour from Lijiang to Shangri-la includes a stop at the scenic Tiger Leaping Gorge, covering a distance of 180 km in 6-6.5 hours.
• The tour offers flexible booking options, including pay later and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and is wheelchair accessible.
• Highlights of the Tiger Leaping Gorge include a 300-meter drop, surrounding peaks up to 5,600 meters, and opportunities to spot rare birds and alpine flora.
• The tour includes a private car and driver, with the cost covering the vehicle, Chinese-speaking driver, and entrance tickets to Tiger Leaping Gorge.
• Travelers can choose flexible departure times between 8:30 am and 12:00 pm, with pickup options from Lijiang hotels, train stations, or the airport.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The tour route takes travelers from Lijiang to the scenic Shangri-la region, with a stop at the famous Tiger Leaping Gorge along the way.

The tour lasts between 6-6.5 hours, with only 3 hours of actual driving time. A Chinese-speaking driver will provide transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.

The price starts from $164.82 per person and the tour is wheelchair accessible.

Travelers can book flexibly, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour includes pickup from Lijiang hotels, train stations, or the airport, and drop-off at either Tiger Leaping Gorge or Shangri-la hotels.

Booking Information

Flexible booking allows travelers to reserve their tour now and pay later.

Free cancellation gives customers the freedom to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Meeting points are available at:

• Lijiang hotel
• Lijiang train station
• Lijiang airport

This ensures travelers can conveniently start their journey from their location of choice.

Whether you’re staying in Lijiang or arriving by train or plane, the tour operator offers multiple options to suit your needs.

Travel Details

Covering a distance of 180 km, the journey from Lijiang to Shangri-la typically takes 6-6.5 hours, though the actual driving time without stops is approximately 3 hours.

Travelers can expect the driver to be available between 8:30 am and 12:00 pm for departure.

Along the way, the tour offers the option to stop at the Tiger Leaping Gorge, where visitors can admire the stunning natural landscape.

The gorge stretches approximately 16 km and features a water surface situated 1,800 meters above sea level, with a dramatic drop of around 300 meters across 18 rapids.

Passengers can choose to be dropped off at either the Tiger Leaping Gorge hotel or the Shangri-la hotel at the end of the tour.

Tiger Leaping Gorge Highlights

Tiger Leaping Gorge stretches approximately 16 km and features a water surface situated 1,800 meters above sea level.

The gorge’s dramatic landscape is carved by the powerful Jinsha River, which has eroded the area between Jade Dragon Mountain and Haba Snow Mountain.

This stunning natural wonder boasts a series of 18 rapids, with a drop of around 300 meters.

The surrounding peaks soar up to 5,600 meters, creating an awe-inspiring backdrop.

Visitors can enjoy:

• Panoramic views of the towering mountains
• Observing the river’s rapid waters rushing through the narrow gorge
• Exploring the rugged trails along the canyon walls
• Spotting diverse wildlife, including rare birds and alpine flora

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Private Car and Driver

A private car and driver provide a convenient and comfortable way to travel from Lijiang to Shangri-la. The cost-effective tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, a Chinese-speaking driver, and entrance tickets to Tiger Leaping Gorge. Travelers can opt for flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Departure Time	Meeting Points
Between 8:30 am and 12:00 pm	Lijiang hotel or train station/airport

The driver can drop off passengers at either the Tiger Leaping Gorge hotel or the Shangri-la hotel, making for a seamless travel experience. With a total distance of 180 km, the journey typically takes 6-6.5 hours, including stops, providing ample time to explore the breathtaking natural beauty along the way.

Departure Time and Stops

The driver can accommodate flexible departure times, with availability between 8:30 am and 12:00 pm.

Travelers can be picked up directly from their Lijiang hotel or the train station/airport, making it convenient to start the journey.

Along the way, the driver can drop off passengers at their desired destinations, such as:

• Tiger Leaping Gorge hotel for those who want to explore the iconic natural wonder
• Shangri-la hotel for those continuing their journey to the picturesque mountain town

The 180 km drive from Lijiang to Shangri-la takes approximately 6-6.5 hours, with stops, or 3 hours without.

This flexible schedule allows travelers to tailor the experience to their preferences.

Entrance Ticket Details

The tour package includes an entrance ticket to the Tiger Leaping Gorge scenic area, priced at 65 CNY per person.

This ticket grants access to the stunning natural landscapes within the gorge, which has been carved by the Jinsha River between the towering Jade Dragon Mountain and Haba Snow Mountain.

The gorge stretches approximately 16 km and drops around 300 meters in a series of 18 rapids, with the water surface situated 1,800 meters above sea level.

Surrounded by peaks soaring up to 5,600 meters, the Tiger Leaping Gorge offers a breathtaking experience for visitors to take in the region’s majestic natural beauty.

Route and Distance

Spanning a distance of 180 km, the route from Lijiang to Shangri-la traverses the breathtaking landscapes of China’s Yunnan province.

Along the way, travelers will encounter:

• Winding mountain roads offering panoramic vistas of lush valleys and snow-capped peaks
• The awe-inspiring Tiger Leaping Gorge, where the Jinsha River has carved a dramatic 300-meter drop between two towering mountains
• Quaint villages and towns, providing a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region
• The mystical and serene city of Shangri-la, known for its Tibetan Buddhist monasteries and stunning natural beauty.

The journey, while approximately 3 hours without stops, can be extended to 6-6.5 hours to fully experience the highlights along the route.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option for an English-Speaking Driver?

Unfortunately, the tour overview does not mention the option for an English-speaking driver. The driver is described as Chinese-speaking, so an English-speaking driver may not be available for this particular tour.

Can We Stop for Photos Along the Way?

Yes, the tour allows for stops along the way for photos. The driver can accommodate requests to stop at scenic viewpoints so guests can capture the stunning mountain landscapes during the journey.

What Are the Weather Conditions Typically Like?

The weather along this tour route is generally mild and pleasant, with sunny skies and comfortable temperatures. However, the mountainous terrain can bring cooler temperatures and occasional rain or snow, particularly at higher elevations.

Is There a Recommended Time to Visit Tiger Leaping Gorge?

The recommended time to visit Tiger Leaping Gorge is during the dry season, typically from October to May, when the weather is mild and the water levels are lower, making it easier to explore the stunning gorge.

Can We Explore the Gorge on Our Own or Do We Need a Guide?

Visitors can explore Tiger Leaping Gorge on their own without a guide. The gorge has well-marked hiking trails and scenic viewpoints, allowing independent exploration. However, hiring a local guide can provide greater insights into the gorge’s history and features.

The Sum Up

The journey from Lijiang to Shangri-la is a breathtaking experience, offering stunning views of the Jinsha River and towering peaks. Travelers can explore the natural beauty of the Tiger Leaping Gorge, providing an enriching and comfortable adventure. This tour showcases Yunnan’s rich culture and the flexibility to customize the experience, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a memorable journey through the region.

You can check if your dates are available here: