Lijiang to Shangri-La Scenic Drive Tour with Tiger Leaping Gorge
Active
10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover the natural beauty of the Tiger Leaping Gorge, Haba Snow Mountain, and Baishui Terrace on a full-day scenic drive from Lijiang to Shangri-La.
Start your tour with pickup from your hotel in Lijiang and head to the Tiger Leaping Gorge.
Pass the Haba Snow Mountain, the main peak of which is 5,396 meters above sea level.
See the Baishui Terrace, a natural limestone terrace that resembles a frozen waterfall.
Finally, visit the Songzanlin Monastery and the Dukezong Ancient Town in Shangri-La.
Choose to return to Lijiang via highway or stay over at Shangri-La City
Available options
Private Vehicle + Tour Guide
Tour Guide<br/>Private Vehicle<br/>Pickup included
Private Vehicle (No Guide)
No Tour Guide<br/>Private Vehicle<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Customized Itinerary
Private Vehicle with Pickup/Dropoff
Private Guide (option)
Round Trip from Lijiang/Shangri-La or One-way Transfer between Lijiang and Shangri-La
Detailed itinerary
1
At the Tiger Leaping Gorge. Stand on the observation deck and see the towering peaks on both sides of the canyon reaching high into the clouds, steep and precipitous. Watch as the river surges in the narrow canyon, stirring up huge waves.
2
Pass the Haba Snow Mountain, the main peak of which is 5,396 meters above sea level.
3
Stop 3
See the Baishui Terrace, a natural limestone terrace that resembles a frozen waterfall.
4
Nestled amidst majestic mountains, the town features traditional Tibetan architecture with stone houses and sloping roofs. As you wander through its cobblestone streets, be greeted by prayer flags fluttering gently in the breeze, filling the air with a sense of spirituality.
5
Songzanlin Monastery is also known as 'the little Potala Palace '. In 1679, Dalai Lama chose this place by divination, and it went on to become the uppermost public place in Yunnan which features the particular local characteristics.
Annually, the Gedong Festival is celebrated here by the Tibetans. Pious believers, with their knees and foreheads knocking the ground at every step, come here to pray.
The monastery is full of treasures. There are a lot of golden figures of Buddha josses, golden lamps, Tibetan lections, silver censers and so on. All of these are wonderful collections accumulated from each dynasty. They are precious productions made by people of both Tibet nationality and Han nationality.
What's not included
Meals and beverages
Personal expenses
Tips and gratuities
Admission Fees (Payment on entry if visiting)
Available languages
Guide guide
CMN
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Tripadvisor
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Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Lijiang
Lijiang is a picturesque ancient town in southwest China, renowned for its well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture. The town is famous for its intricate system of canals and waterways, earning it the nickname 'City of the Water.' Lijiang is also a gateway to the stunning landscapes of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and offers a unique blend of ethnic Naxi culture.
Top Attractions
Old Town of Lijiang
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Old Town of Lijiang is famous for its well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture and intricate system of canals and waterways.
Historical
Half day to full day
Free to explore, ¥50 for some historical sites
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
A stunning mountain range with peaks reaching over 5,000 meters, offering breathtaking views and various outdoor activities.
Nature
Full day
Cable car: ¥150, Blue Moon Valley: ¥80, Impression Lijiang Show: ¥150-300
Black Dragon Pool Park
A beautiful park featuring a large pond reflecting the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, surrounded by lush gardens and traditional architecture.
Nature
1-2 hours
¥30
Must-Try Local Dishes
Crossing the Bridge Noodles
A traditional Naxi dish consisting of a clear soup with a variety of ingredients, including mushrooms, vegetables, and meat, served with rice noodles.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian and non-vegetarian versions available
Yunnan Rice Noodles
A popular breakfast dish made with rice noodles, often served with a rich broth, meat, and vegetables.
Breakfast/Lunch
Vegetarian and non-vegetarian versions available
Steamed Fish from Lijiang
A local specialty featuring fish steamed with a variety of spices and herbs, often served with chili oil and garlic.
Dinner
Contains fish
Popular Activities
Hiking in Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
Tiger Leaping Gorge trek
Mountain biking
Tea tasting at local tea houses
Boat rides on canals
Spa treatments
Visiting Mu Palace
Exploring Dongba Culture Museum
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
These months offer the best weather with mild temperatures and minimal rainfall. The landscapes are lush and vibrant, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Chinese
- Widely spoken: Naxi, English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Chinese Yuan (CNY)
Time Zone
GMT+8
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Lijiang is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxis.
- • Avoid street money changers and use official exchange counters.
Getting there
By air
- Lijiang Sanyi International Airport • 25 km from city center
By train
Lijiang Railway Station
By bus
Lijiang Long-Distance Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are affordable and convenient, but schedules and routes can be confusing for tourists.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Didi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Old Town
Shangri-La Road
Yulong Snow Mountain Scenic Area
Day trips
Shangri-La
150 km • Full day
A picturesque town known for its Tibetan culture, stunning landscapes, and historic sites.
Dali
200 km • Full day
A historic city known for its ancient towns, cultural heritage, and beautiful landscapes.
Tiger Leaping Gorge
100 km • Full day
One of the deepest gorges in the world, offering stunning views and challenging hikes.
Festivals
Lijiang Lusheng Festival • March
Naxi New Year • January (lunar calendar)
Lijiang Snow and Ice Festival • December to February
Pro tips
- Visit the old town early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
- Try the local specialty, Crossing the Bridge Noodles, at a reputable restaurant for an authentic experience.
- Book tickets for popular attractions like the Impression Lijiang Show in advance to avoid long lines.
- Carry a map or use a reliable navigation app, as street signs can be confusing and English is not widely spoken.
- Bring layers of clothing, as temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day and year.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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