Overview:The Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the world's deepest river canyons, is famous for its breathtaking scenery of rock and water. It got its name from the legend, in China's ancient past, a tiger, fleeing from a hunter jumped across the gorge.
One of the deepest gorges in China, Tiger Leaping Gorge (虎跳峡) is 100 km (62 miles) northwest of Lijiang in Shangri-la County, which is part of the Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Yunnan Province. It can be dangerous in certain weather conditions, so good preparation is essential. The story goes that a fierce tiger could easily leap the gorge while being hunted down the mountain and thus the name—Tiger Leaping Gorge.
The gorge is formed by the narrowing of the river as it is forced between Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Haba Snow Mountain, at an altitude of almost 3,900 meters (12,795 ft). There are 18 dangerous shoals and the narrowest part of the river is only around 30 meters (33 yards).
The easiest way to take in the highlights in one day is by car. However, most travelers prefer to hike along the gorge for 2 days. This is one of the world's 10 classical Trekking Routes (Entry Level), so hiking along the Haba Snow Mountain roads for mountain views or trekking along the lower gravel road for splendid gorge views are both very popular and worthwhile. Guesthouses are available along the hiking route.
Tiger Leaping Gorge highlights include the exhilarating trekking, fabulous views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain from the gorge, the sound of roaring water at night and delicious local food in Qiaotou Town (Hu Tiaoxia Town). Spring and autumn are the best times for 2-day treks.
Add: Hutiaoxia Town, Shangri-La County, Diqing, Yunnan
Admission: 45 Yuan/person
Opening Hours: 09:00-16:30 |
