The 6 Famous Rafting Destinations and Rivers in Yunnan
Yunnan is an inland province with no coastal area, but it is nevertheless remarkably rich in water resources, with a great variety of inland bodies of water, including rivers, lakes, springs, pools, and glaciers, all couched within gloriously beautiful landscapes. First Bay of Yangtze River More than 600 rivers run through Yunnan, which all belong to the six major river systems, the Yantze River (Jinsha River), Pearl River (Nanpan River), Red River (Yuanjiang River), Lancang River (Mekong River), Nujiang River (Salween River), and Irrawaddy River, which run into either the Pacific Ocean or the Indian Ocean. Two of those rivers, the Pearl River and the Red River, have their sources in Yunnan. Nujiang River, Lancang River, Red River and Ruili River (Irrawaddy River system) are international rivers. The Lancang River flows through Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, and is sometimes called the “oriental Danube River”. It is extremely rare for a single province to be so well endowed as to have six river systems that drain into one of two oceans, including four that are international rivers.
Here are six major rafting destinations in Yunnan province:
- Nanpan River in Yiliang (宜良南盘江):
Known for its thrilling rapids and scenic landscapes, this 10-kilometer stretch offers both bamboo rafting for relaxation and paddle rafting for adventurers. It features seven shoals, eight curves, and sixteen bends, providing an exciting experience amidst lush surroundings and opportunities to interact with local culture. - Nanxi River Mouth in Hekou (河口南溪河):
This challenging 32-kilometer route combines adventure, fitness, and scenic beauty. Starting from Niulang Beach and ending at the bridge in Hekou County, the Nanxi River flows through pristine subtropical jungles, with numerous rapids and spectacular views of mountains and rock formations. - Lancang River (Mekong River) in Xishuangbanna (西双版纳澜沧江):
Originating from the Tibetan Plateau and flowing through Southeast Asia, the Lancang River offers an 18-kilometer rafting route from Jinghong to the Akha Village. It features swift currents, lush vegetation, and opportunities to explore ancient bamboo forests and local villages.
- Jinsha River (金沙江) near Shigu Town, Lijiang:
The Jinsha River flows majestically through the upper reaches of the Yangtze River. The section near Shigu Town offers a serene and gentle rafting experience during February, resembling a jade belt under the sunlight. The river is flanked by picturesque white sands, creating a natural and beautiful scene. Visitors can embark on an 18-kilometer rafting journey from a dock near the town, passing through stunning landscapes until reaching the vicinity of Tiger Leaping Gorge. - Duoyi River in Luoping (罗平多依河):
The Duoyi River is named after a beautiful girl named Duoyi, known for its clear blue waters and pristine bedrock composed of rocks. It spans 12 kilometers and features nearly 40 waterfalls along its course. The riverbanks are adorned with ancient trees and colorful layers of calcium deposits, creating a natural and artistic spectacle. The area is inhabited by various ethnic groups like the Buyi, Zhuang, Miao, and Yao, adding to the rich cultural atmosphere.
- Nujiang Prefecture (怒江州):
The Nujiang River, known for its turbulent and powerful currents, flows through a dramatic landscape of steep mountains and lush greenery. With its large volume of water and significant drops in elevation (more than 3 meters per kilometer in some places), the Nujiang River offers exceptional rafting opportunities. Spanning over 1000 kilometers, the Nujiang Grand Canyon is a breathtaking natural wonder in Yunnan. Counties such as Gongshan, Fugong, and Lushui in Nujiang Lisu Autonomous Prefecture are nestled within this canyon, providing stunning rafting routes amidst spectacular scenery.
