Tiger Leaping Gorge Hiking Tour Tips: Hiking Trails, Tours Route, Best Time To Visit, Meals and Hotels

As the deepest gorge in the world, the scenery of Tiger Leaping Gorge is spectacular. Foreign backpackers started hiking in the area in the 1980s and now Tiger Leaping Gorge Hiking Tour has been one of the most famous hiking tour all around the world. From the top of Tiger Leaping Gorge, you can look down the steeply angled (70-90 degrees) mountain sides to the rushing Jinsha River with its 18 frothing rapids more than 200 meters below.

Tiger Leaping Gorge is renowned as one of China’s premier hiking destinations, offering a perfect blend of adventure, unique Naxi culture, and breathtaking gorge scenery. Located between Lijiang (about a 2-hour drive) and Shangri-La (approximately a 3-hour drive) in Yunnan Province, this stunning area attracts trekkers and nature lovers alike.

Hiking Routes

Spanning approximately 22 km (14 miles), Tiger Leaping Gorge features a variety of hiking routes to accommodate different skill levels. Whether you’re looking for a half-day trek, a full-day adventure, or a two-day excursion, you’ll find options that suit your preferences.

Best Time to Hike

The hiking season in Tiger Leaping Gorge is generally suitable for most of the year, although it is advisable to avoid the rainy season from June to September due to the risk of landslides. Plan your visit during the drier months to ensure a safe and enjoyable hiking experience.

Hiking Difficulty and Recommended Routes in Tiger Leaping Gorge

Overview of the Gorge

Tiger Leaping Gorge consists of three parts: the Upper Gorge, Middle Gorge, and Lower Gorge. The Upper and Middle Gorges are particularly popular for hiking. The Upper Gorge, mainly from Qiaotou to Tina’s Guesthouse, is generally easier than the Middle Gorge.

Hiking Difficulty

The Tiger Leaping Gorge hike is suitable for energetic and adventurous hikers with a good fitness level. The longer and steeper sections are not recommended for children under 10 years old or those lacking hiking experience.

While hiking the gorge isn’t overly strenuous, the initial ascent along the 28 Bends can be challenging. This section features a series of switchbacks that steeply wind upward, requiring significant use of hamstrings and calf muscles for about an hour.

The presence of inns and hotels along the route allows for a comfortable trek, enabling hikers to take their time and enjoy accommodations. However, attempting to complete the entire hike too quickly can be strenuous.

The trails are well-marked and easy to follow, but some sections narrow significantly, requiring careful navigation next to cliff faces. The paths are generally safe, except during the rainy season (June to September), when rocks become slippery and the trail muddy. Fresh rockslides can also present challenges.

Medical facilities in the immediate area are limited, and English-speaking staff may not be available even in Lijiang. Therefore, having a local English-speaking guide is advisable to enhance your experience and provide support in case of emergencies.

Recommended Hiking Routes in Tiger Leaping Gorge

Tiger Leaping Gorge Hiking Map The gorge boasts features of an ideal hiking experience: adventurous routes, stunning views, diverse flora and fauna, captivating geological features like waterfalls, and a sense of isolation.

Although it is one of China’s popular trails, it remains uncrowded. Most hikers are foreigners, particularly on the high path above the river, with few Chinese tourists on the trail. Hikers might encounter only one group every hour.

1. Popular 2-Day Trek: High Trail Hike

• Route: Qiaotou to Tina’s Guesthouse
• Distance: Approximately 22 km (14 miles)
• Duration: Usually takes 1½ days
• Highlights:
  • Experience Naxi culture while observing locals grazing goats.
  • Navigate the strenuous 28 Bends for breathtaking views.
  • Enjoy panoramic sights of the gorge from the rooftop terrace of Halfway Guesthouse.

2. Shorter 1-Day Trek

• Route: 14-Km Point to Tina’s Guesthouse (with a stopover at Halfway Guesthouse)
• Access: Well-paved roads lead to the 14-Km Point, located at the foot of Haba Snow Mountain.
• Highlights:
  • Enjoy key features like snow-capped mountains, waterfalls, and gorge panoramas in a limited time.

3. Half-Day Hike

• Route: From Tina’s Guesthouse to the Middle Gorge
• Experience: This hike reveals the beauty of the gorge from the bottom with a steep ascent.
• Highlights:
  • Follow the trails along the roaring Jinsha River for unbeatable views of the sheer gorge.
  • Climbing the steep Sky Ladder offers a true adventure.

Whether you choose a longer trek or a shorter hike, Tiger Leaping Gorge promises an unforgettable experience filled with stunning natural beauty and cultural encounters.

Tiger Leaping Gorge offers an array of features that make it one of the best hiking destinations, including adventurous routes, stunning views, diverse flora and fauna, appealing geological formations like waterfalls, and a sense of isolation.

Despite being a popular trail in China, Tiger Leaping Gorge is not overcrowded. Most hikers on the high path above the river are foreigners, with few Chinese tourists venturing onto this trail. It’s not unusual to encounter only one group of hikers every hour.

2-Day Trek: High Trail Hike

• Route: Qiaotou to Tina’s Guesthouse
• Distance: Approximately 22 km (14 miles)
• Duration: 1½ days
• Highlights:
  • Encounter Naxi people grazing their goats.
  • Conquer the challenging 28 Bends.
  • Enjoy breathtaking views of the gorge from the rooftop terrace of Halfway Guesthouse.

Shorter Option: 1-Day Trek

• Route: 14-Km Point to Tina’s Guesthouse (with a stop at Halfway Guesthouse)
• Access: Well-paved roads lead to the 14-Km Point at the foot of Haba Snow Mountain.
• Highlights:
  • Experience key attractions like snow-capped mountains and waterfalls.
  • Take in panoramic views of the gorge within a limited timeframe.

Half-Day Hike: Middle Gorge

• Route: From Tina’s Guesthouse to the Middle Gorge
• Description: This route reveals the gorge’s beauty from below, featuring a quick, steep ascent.
• Highlights:
  • Trail alongside the roaring Jinsha River, offering stunning views of the sheer cliffs.
  • Climbing the steep Sky Ladder for an adventurous experience.

Whether you choose a multi-day trek or a shorter hike, Tiger Leaping Gorge promises unforgettable scenery and adventure!

2 Days Hiking in Tiger Leaping Gorge

The 2-Day “High Trail” Hike in Tiger Leaping Gorge

This hike follows one of the most popular yet challenging routes in Tiger Leaping Gorge. The highlight is the steep ascent known as the 28 Bends, where you’ll zigzag your way up over 500 meters (1,650+ feet) of elevation. Be prepared for a breathless climb, but once you conquer it, the remaining trail is mostly level or downhill, rewarding you with stunning scenery.

In peak season (October), locals may offer horse rides to the top of the 28 Bends.

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Day 1: Naxi Family Guesthouse to Halfway Guesthouse

• Total Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
• Total Time: Approximately 5 hours
• Elevation Gain: 1,906 m (6,253 ft)
• Elevation Loss: 1,406 m (4,613 ft)
• Overnight Stay: Halfway Guesthouse

Itinerary:

• Most hikers begin at Qiaotou and trek to Naxi Family Guesthouse in about 2 hours. However, recent feedback indicates that the road from Qiaotou to Naxi Guesthouse is currently under construction, so starting your hike from Naxi Family Guesthouse may offer a better experience.
• From Naxi Family Guesthouse, hike for about 3 hours up the challenging 28 Bends before enjoying lunch. Celebrate your triumph with breathtaking views of the rugged Tiger Leaping Gorge.
• After lunch, continue for 1–2 more hours to reach Halfway Guesthouse, which boasts stunning views of Yulong Snow Mountain and overlooks the Jinsha River Valley. You can relax on the deck, enjoy hot showers, and find clean beds.
• Tip: Contact us in advance to book a room with a terrace or sightseeing window. Many hikers find that the perfect end to the day is sitting on their balcony, enjoying a cold beer while watching the glorious sunset.

Where to Eat:

• Lunch at Tea Horse Guesthouse
• Dinner at Halfway Guesthouse

Where to Stay: The owners of recommended guesthouses speak basic English and provide good service. Other family-run guesthouses are available if language is not a barrier. It’s wise to book in advance, as private rooms are limited.

1. Tea Horse Guesthouse
   • Overview: A popular stay for beginner hikers with basic facilities
   • Prices: From US$7 per bed in dorms, from US$25 per private room
   • Highlights: Stunning views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain from rooms and the rooftop terrace.
2. Tiger Leaping Gorge Yachajiao Manor
   • Overview: A high-end alternative to Tea Horse Guesthouse
   • Prices: From US$150 per private room
   • Highlights: Boutique hotel with stone and wood construction, offering fantastic mountain views, hot tubs on the terrace, and a swimming pool. Guests can enjoy nightly Naxi minority dance performances.
3. Halfway Guesthouse
   • Overview: The main destination for most hikers, with basic facilities
   • Prices: From US$6 per bed in dorms, from US$24 per private room
   • Highlights: Popular for its breathtaking bathroom views and panoramic rooftop terrace. Ideal for catching the return bus at 3:30 PM.

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Day 2: Hike from Halfway Guesthouse to Tina’s Guesthouse

• Total Distance: 5 km (3 miles)
• Hiking Time: 2 hours
• Elevation Gain: 514 m (1,686 ft)
• Elevation Loss: 789 m (2,589 ft)

Itinerary:

• The second day features a relatively easy hike, primarily level terrain. You’ll enjoy leisurely views of the gorge as you make your way down to Tina’s Guesthouse, passing beautiful waterfalls and canyons along the way.
• After lunch at Tina’s, you can choose to relax in the Middle Gorge, head to your next destination, or continue hiking to the Middle Gorge. Note that this 3-hour hike is more strenuous. If you have a fear of heights or knee issues, it’s best to skip this part.

Where to Eat:

• Breakfast at Halfway Guesthouse
• Lunch at Tina’s Guesthouse

Where to Stay:

• Tina’s Guesthouse
  • Overview: Hostel with basic facilities
  • Prices: From US$6 per bed in dorms, from US$20 per private room
  • Highlights: Recommended by Lonely Planet, can help book bus seats back to Qiaotou or Lijiang. Ideal for those looking for a more relaxed hiking pace before attempting the Middle Gorge hike.
• Tiger Leaping Gorge Camp Shangri-La
  • Overview: High-end boutique hotel
  • Prices: From US$607 per private room

One-Day High Trail Hike in Tiger Leaping Gorge

If you prefer a shorter experience, the one-day High Trail hike allows you to enjoy the stunning scenery of Tiger Leaping Gorge while skipping the toughest sections. You’ll encounter breathtaking views of waterfalls, snow-capped mountains, and the rushing river, making for an exhilarating adventure.

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Route Overview

• Starting Point: 14 Km Point
• Stops: Halfway Guesthouse (2 hours) to Tina’s Guesthouse (2 hours)
• Total Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
• Hiking Time: 4 hours
• Elevation Gain: 600 m (1,968 ft)
• Elevation Loss: 789 m (2,589 ft)

Itinerary:

• A driver will take you directly to the 14 Km Point, where your hike begins. The trail from the 14 Km Point to Halfway Guesthouse is less traveled and may lack clear signage. To ensure your safety and enjoyment, our private guide will accompany you, providing local knowledge and preventing you from getting lost.
• After reaching Halfway Guesthouse, you can enjoy lunch on its rooftop terrace, soaking in the stunning views of the snow-capped mountains.
• Following lunch, continue your hike to Tina’s Guesthouse, where you can relax and appreciate the breathtaking landscapes along the way.

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Where to Eat:

• Halfway Guesthouse: Enjoy lunch on the rooftop terrace with spectacular views of the snow mountains.

This one-day hike offers a thrilling and picturesque experience of Tiger Leaping Gorge, perfect for those short on time but still eager to explore the beauty of this natural wonder.

Half-Day High Trail Hike in Tiger Leaping Gorge from 14KM Point to Bendiwan Village and Tinas Hostel

Hike Overview

• Starting Point: 14 Km Point
• Stops: Halfway Hostel in Bendiwan Village, Guanyin Temple, Guanyin Waterfall, Bamboo Forest, Tina’s Hostel
• Total Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
• Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
• Elevation Gain: 400 m (1,312 ft)
• Elevation Loss: 600 m (1,968 ft)

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Itinerary

1. 14 Km Point to Halfway Hostel in Bendiwan Village
Begin your hike at the 14 Km Point. The trail ascends gradually, leading you through stunning landscapes with views of snow-capped mountains and the gorge below. After about 2 hours of hiking, you’ll reach the Halfway Hostel in Bendiwan Village, a perfect spot to take a break and soak in the panoramic views.

2. Lunch at Bendiwan Village
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Bendiwan Village, either at the Halfway Hostel or another local spot. The rooftop terrace at Halfway Hostel offers a great place to relax while admiring the surrounding peaks.

3. Bendiwan Village to Guanyin Temple and Guanyin Waterfall
After lunch, continue your hike toward Guanyin Temple and Guanyin Waterfall. The trail takes you through lush bamboo forests and serene landscapes. The temple and waterfall are both peaceful spots where you can pause to appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility.

4. Bamboo Forest to Tina’s Hostel
From the waterfall, descend through a picturesque bamboo forest as you make your way to Tina’s Hostel, located in the middle of the gorge. This section of the hike offers diverse scenery and a chance to immerse yourself in the natural environment.

5. End at Tina’s Hostel
Your hike concludes at Tina’s Hostel, where you can rest and enjoy the views before meeting your driver for the return transfer. From here, you’ll be driven back to either Lijiang or Shangri-La, depending on your preference.

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Logistics:

• Where to Eat: Lunch at Halfway Hostel in Bendiwan Village.
• Return Transfer: Meet your driver at Tina’s Hostel for the transfer back to Lijiang or Shangri-La.

This half-day hike is ideal for those looking to experience the highlights of Tiger Leaping Gorge in a short, manageable timeframe while still enjoying its breathtaking landscapes and cultural sites.

Half-Day High Trail Hike in Middle Tiger Leaping Gorge

For those seeking an adrenaline-pumping experience, the Middle Gorge Hike in Tiger Leaping Gorge is the ultimate challenge. With its narrow, steep trails, breathtaking views, and the famous Sky Ladder, this hike promises a thrilling adventure for the brave-hearted.

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Hike Overview

• Starting Point: Tina’s Guesthouse
• Trails: Teacher Zhang’s Trail, Sky Ladder, Ray of Sunshine Trail
• Total Hiking Time: 2–3 hours
• Difficulty: Challenging (steep, narrow paths, vertical climbs)

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Itinerary

1. Start from Tina’s Guesthouse
Begin your hike from Tina’s Guesthouse, where you can grab a quick snack or drink before heading out. Make sure you’re well-prepared, as the trails in the Middle Gorge are steep and require good balance and stamina.

2. Teacher Zhang’s Trail
Descend along Teacher Zhang’s Trail, a narrow path cut into the cliffside. This trail offers stunning views of the gorge as you make your way down to the bottom. The descent takes about an hour, and you’ll need to use your hands to steady yourself on the steep sections.

3. Starry Sky Reef and Tiger Leaping Rock
Once at the bottom, you’ll reach the narrowest part of the gorge, marked by the dangerous ‘Starry Sky Reef.’ Here, you have the option to step out onto Tiger Leaping Rock via a hanging wooden suspension bridge for a small fee (CN¥10 or US$1.5). It’s a perfect spot for cool pictures standing amidst the roaring rapids.

4. Sky Ladder
After exploring the bottom of the gorge, head toward the Sky Ladder, the most challenging part of the hike. The Sky Ladder is a vertical climb that takes about an hour to complete. The ladder is rough and almost vertical, offering a vertigo-inducing view as you climb. The thrill of ascending the Sky Ladder makes it a favorite for adventurous hikers.

5. Return to Tina’s Guesthouse
Once you’ve conquered the Sky Ladder, you can either take a different trail back to Tina’s Guesthouse or return via the same route. The hike back offers more incredible views and a sense of accomplishment after completing the challenging trails.

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Optional Trails

• Ray of Sunshine Trail: For those who want to explore more, the Ray of Sunshine Trail offers additional views and challenges. You can connect this trail with Teacher Zhang’s Trail and the Sky Ladder for a more extended hike.

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Logistics:

• Where to Eat: After your hike, return to Tina’s Guesthouse for a well-deserved meal. They offer basic but hearty dishes that will help you refuel after your adventure.
• Safety Note: The Middle Gorge trails are narrow, steep, and challenging. If you have a fear of heights or difficulty with balance, consider taking a different route or hiring a guide for safety.

This Middle Gorge Hike is perfect for those looking to push their limits and experience the raw beauty and power of Tiger Leaping Gorge up close.

Hike Trails in Tiger Leaping Gorge

1. Hike Trail of the Upper Tiger Leaping Gorge

Usually it takes about 7 to 8 hours to finish the hiking of upper section of Tiger Leaping Gorge. Most travelers will choose to do it in two days, for enjoying the scenery while doing hiking. Below are recommended hiking routes.

Route 1: Stay overnight at Tea-horse Guesthouse

• Arrive at Qiaotou between 09:00 and 10:00.
• Hike about 4-5 hours to Tea-horse Guesthouse. Stay Overnight.
• Next morning, enjoy the stunning sunrise of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and continue the hiking at 08:00.
• Arrive at Half Way for a break. Then continue the hiking.
• Arrive at Tina’s. Have lunch here and then hike down to visit the Middle Tiger Leaping Stone.

Route 2: Stay overnight at Naxi Family Guesthouse

• Arrive at Qiaotou between 14:00 and 15:00.
• Hike about 2 hours to Naxi Family for overnight.
• Next morning, enjoy the sunrise of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and trek to the 28 bends.
• Have lunch on the way and enjoy the splendid landscape.
• Arrive at Tina’s in the late afternoon.

Please read more about Tiger Leaping Gorge Hiking Tours.

2. Walking Time of Tiger Leaping Gorge Hiking

Qiaotou(1800m) – Naxi Family(2200m)

Usually it takes about 1.5-2 hours. From Qiaotou, walk along the main road about 1km to the school. Take the narrow path beside school basketball courts, you will see a sign of High Trail on your left. Walk through two villages and then the path narrows after the village, rises gradually. Turns left into the Gorge. You can see the site of the Upper Tiger Leaping Stone several hundred meters down from the trail. Next village you will meet is Nuoyu village and you’ll get to Naxi Family Guesthouse.

Naxi Family(2200m) – Top of the 28 Bends(2670m)

This part will take about 2.5-3 hours. You will meet the most difficult part of trail – the 28 Bends which comes after Naxi Family Guesthouse. On the summit of the 28 bends, you’ll be rewarded by a magnificent panorama.

Top of the 28 Bends(2670m) – Tea-horse Guesthouse

Continue hiking about 30-1 hour, you’ll reach Tea-horse Trade Guesthouse. 

 Tea-horse Guesthouse – Half Way Guesthouse

Walk on a flat path for 1.5 hours. You will enjoy the most beautiful part of High Trail. 10 minutes before Half Way, the narrow trail meets a tractor road, keep the same direction as the contrary direction brings you down to the 14 km point on the Low Road.

Half Way Guesthouse – Tina’s Guesthouse

Two hours are needed for finishing this part. Several beautiful cascades and falls appear on the trail after Half Way. The most beautiful fall is called Quanyin Fall. Soon the Middle Gorge can be seen together with switchbacks of Low Road. There is a small climb leading you to a ridge at 2480m. Then the trail descends gradually to Tina’s Guesthouse. A shortcut to Zhang’s Guesthouse is marked by a sign on the trail. (See Middle Tiger Leaping Stone).

3. Things to Know

Difficulty: Medium. Except the part from Naxi Family to the summit of 28 bends which is the toughest.
Food/Water: Local guesthouse provides food and water.
Route Mark: Red, yellow, black arrows marked by different guesthouses are found at each crossroad
When to Go: Spring, Autumn, Winter

4. Tips of Tiger Leaping Gorge Hiking

• Bring snacks with you if you tend to get hungry during treks. We took some dried fruits and nuts bought from a supermarket in Lijiang, and this was enough for us. Food can be bought at all the guest houses along the route.
• Have at least 2 litres of water with you at all times. More is recommended. Again, you buy water at all the guest houses (5-10RMB per bottle). We carry a SteriPen, which allows us to sterilise tap and creek water, just to be safe.
• Make sure you have wet weather gear, as it can change very quickly in Tiger Leaping Gorge.
• If trekking in winter (October to March), the temperature can, and will, plummet. Wear layers and gloves.
• It is almost impossible to get lost along the way. Red and yellow arrows pointing to various guest houses are painted on stones periodically along the trail, as well as blue sign posts.
• We met a guy on the trail who hitchhiked from Tina’s with no problem. This is another option if you don’t want to pay for the bus.
• If you do take the bus from Tina’s, they will stop at Jane’s Guest House so you can grab your other backpack.

Keep Reading:

Lijiang to Tiger Leaping Gorge Transportation
How to Travel to Tiger Leaping Gorge from Kunming
How to Get to Tiger Leaping Gorge from Shangrila
Where to Stay in Tiger Leaping Gorge
Weather in Tiger Leaping Gorge: The Best Season to Visit Tiger Leaping Gorge