7 Days Lijiang Cycling Tour from Lugu Lake to Lijiang
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable 7-day cycling adventure from the pristine Lugu Lake to the enchanting city of Lijiang. This journey seamlessly blends stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and...
Code of Tour: YET0000058429
Length of Travel: 7 Day
Destinations of Tour: Lijiang-Lugu Lake-Ninglang-Shudi-Lijiang
Departure City: Lijiang
Price of Tour: Request
Type of Tour:
Features of Tour: Cycling tours
Embark on an unforgettable 7-day cycling adventure from the pristine Lugu Lake to the enchanting city of Lijiang. This journey seamlessly blends stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and vibrant local life. As you pedal through picturesque towns, ancient villages, and breathtaking mountain scenery, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the unique traditions of the region, interact with local communities, and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Yunnan Province. Whether you are an experienced cyclist or a leisure rider, this tour offers something for everyone, combining adventure with discovery.
Introduction
Set off on a remarkable 7-day cycling journey that takes you from the beautiful Lugu Lake to the captivating city of Lijiang. This expedition artfully combines breathtaking natural scenery, deep cultural experiences, and lively local environments. While you cycle through charming towns, historic villages, and awe-inspiring mountain views, you will have the chance to dive into the distinct traditions of the area, engage with local residents, and appreciate the stunning landscapes of Yunnan Province. Whether you are an avid cyclist or someone who enjoys a more relaxed pace, this tour caters to all, blending adventure with exploration.
Hilights
- Lugu Lake Exploration: Start your journey at the serene Lugu Lake, known for its crystal-clear waters and the distinctive matriarchal culture of the Mosuo people.
- Cycling through Scenic Villages: Experience the charm of ancient villages along the route, including the picturesque Shuhe and Baisha, where traditional architecture and local crafts come to life.
- Cultural Insights: Visit local homes and learn about the customs and traditions of the Bai and Naxi ethnic minorities, deepening your understanding of their rich heritage.
- Jade Dragon Snow Mountain: Marvel at the spectacular views of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain as you ride through Dongba Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Engaging with Nature: Encounter stunning landscapes, from lush forests to alpine meadows, as you cycle through diverse ecosystems unique to the Yunnan area.
- Lijiang Hearthstone: Conclude your adventure in the historic Lijiang Old Town, exploring its vibrant markets, ancient streets, and the breathtaking panorama of the surrounding mountains.
- Delicious Local Cuisine: Indulge in the delectable flavors of Yunnan cuisine, sampling local dishes and delicacies throughout your journey.
Brief Itineray
- Day1: Lijiang Arrival
- Day2: Lijiang-Lugu Lake-Luoshui Village
- Day3: Lugu Lake round trip
- Day4: Lugu Lake-Hongqiao county
- Day5: Hongqiao county-Ninglang town-Shudi county
- Day6: Shudi county-Lijiang
- Day 7: Lijiang Depature
Detailed Itineray
Day1: Lijiang Arrival
Sightseeing and Activities: explore the Lijiang Ancient Town
Accommodation: Lijiang Ancient Town
Meal: None
- Arrival in Lijiang
- Upon your arrival in Lijiang, you will be greeted at the airport and assisted in collecting your bike, marking the beginning of your exploration of the historic Lijiang Old Town.
- With a rich history spanning over 800 years, Lijiang once served as a vital hub for trade along the ancient Tea Horse Road. Renowned for its intricate network of waterways and bridges, Lijiang’s old town stands out from other ancient Chinese cities in terms of its unique architecture, historical significance, and the vibrant culture of its traditional inhabitants, the Naxi people.
Day2: Lijiang-Lugu Lake-Luoshui Village
Sightseeing and Activities: visit Lugu Lake, Luoshui Village
Accommodation: Luoshui village
Meal: Breakfast
- Scenic Drive from Lijiang to Lugu Lake
- Embark on a picturesque journey from Lijiang to Lugu Lake. After approximately 6-7 hours of driving, we will arrive at the charming Luoshui Village, situated along the shores of Lugu Lake.
- Discovering Luoshui Village
- Home to 2,771 residents, Luoshui Village features a delightful array of wooden Mosuo dwellings and guesthouses, each painted in the traditional Mosuo style and set against the stunning lakeside landscape.
- For over two millennia, the Mosuo people have upheld a unique matriarchal society where women take on leadership roles and significant responsibilities within their communities.
- In this distinctive culture, men traditionally work in their mothers’ fields rather than those of their wives, and they reside in their maternal homes. Children born into the community are raised in the woman’s household, with no formal recognition of paternal ties.
- Attractions and Relaxation
- Visitors to Luoshui Village can explore an array of enjoyable and relaxing spots, including the Mosuo Garden, Goddess Garden, Ethnic Custom Garden, and Ethnic Culture Garden.
- You will spend the night in a cozy local hostel in Luoshui Village, offering a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich culture and scenery of Lugu Lake.
Day3: Lugu Lake round trip
Sightseeing and Activities: Lugu Lake, the landscape on the way
Accommodation: Lugu lake
Meal: Breakfast
- Overview of Lugu Lake
- Lugu Lake is a high-altitude plateau lake, situated at an elevation of 2,685 meters above sea level.
It lies 202 kilometers northeast of Lijiang, straddling the border between the Sichuan and Yunnan provinces on the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau in China. Spanning an area of 48.5 square kilometers, the lake is quite deep, with its maximum depth reaching approximately 93.5 meters. - The lake is encircled by majestic mountains and features eight islands, along with numerous bays and beaches, creating a picturesque natural setting.
- Lugu Lake is a high-altitude plateau lake, situated at an elevation of 2,685 meters above sea level.
- The Mosuo People
- The communities residing around Lugu Lake are predominantly made up of the Mosuo people, a small ethnic group regarded as a sub-clan of the Naxi.
- This matriarchal society is dedicated to preserving its unique cultural heritage. Interestingly, the Mosuo people currently do not have a written language, which adds to their distinctive identity.
Day4: Lugu Lake-Hongqiao Town
Sightseeing and Activities: Visit Hongqiao Town
Accommodation: Hongqiao
Meal: Breafast
- The Challenge of the Tour
- This segment of the journey marks the initial challenge of the entire riding tour. During this leg, you will ascend over three mountains and pass through several charming villages before reaching Hongqiao Town.
Day5:Hongqiao county-Ninglang town-Shudi county
Sightseeing and Activities: visit Ninglang, the landscape on the way
Accommodation: Shudi County
Meal: Breakfast
- Uphill Journey from Hongqiao County to Ninglang
- The trek from Hongqiao County to Ninglang primarily involves an hour of uphill climbing, with 90 percent of the population being Yi people.
- This segment of the tour features a challenging 25-kilometer stretch of continuous uphill slopes, followed by an exhilarating downhill ride of over 30 kilometers, promising an adventurous experience.
Day6: Shudi-Lijiang
Sightseeing and Activities: visit Jiansha River, Lijiang Town
Accommodation: Lijiang
Meal: Breakfast
- Final Challenge and Celebration
- After breakfast, embark on a 2-kilometer downhill ride until you reach the Jinsha River.
- Crossing the bridge marks the onset of the most significant and final challenge of the cycling tour: a 25-kilometer ascent famously known as “18 Turns from Lijiang to Ninglang.” Once you conquer this climb, you’ll enjoy an 8-kilometer downhill stretch, leading you to the Lijiang border and straight to the finish line.
- Upon arrival, return your bike and unwind in Lijiang town. Celebrate your achievement with a refreshing beer!
Day 7: Lijiang Depature
Sightseeing and Activities: enjoy yourself
Accommodation: None
Meal: Breakfast
- Enjoy a free day in Lijiang before your flight to Kunming, marking the end of your tour. Here are some suggested spots to explore during your free time:
- Jade Dragon Snow Mountain: This majestic mountain features 13 peaks, the highest reaching 18,000 feet above sea level. It is home to a diverse array of wild plants and rare wildlife.
- Yak Meadow (Maoniuping): A part of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, this area is inhabited by the Yi and Zang (Tibetan) ethnic tribes.
- Baishuihe: Similar to Baishuitai, this site is the birthplace of the Naxi Minority Ethnic Tribe and their unique Dongba culture, showcasing a stunning combination of water and limestone formations.
- Baisha Murals: With the spread of Buddhism during the Ming Dynasty, numerous murals were painted on temple walls, creating a visually captivating experience.
- Black Dragon Pool and Ancient Lijiang City: Visit the picturesque Black Dragon Pool, a renowned site included in the Collections of Famous Pools in China, celebrated for its beauty.
- Naxi Ancient Music: Experience the enchanting ambiance of Naxi ancient music, featuring delightful performances of folk songs every night at 8:00 PM.
Inclusions:
- Accommodation: 6 nights of hotel accommodations in comfortable lodgings.
- Meals: Daily breakfast and specified meals (lunches and dinners) during the tour.
- Bicycle Rental: Use of a high-quality mountain bike throughout the tour.
- Safety Gear: Helmets and other necessary safety equipment.
- Support Vehicle: Support vehicle for luggage transport and emergencies.
- Experienced Guide: Professional English-speaking cycling guide to assist and provide insight during the tour.
- Cultural Experiences: Entrance fees to various attractions and cultural experiences.
- Local Insights: Interactions with local communities and cultural immersion activities.
- Insurance: Basic travel insurance during the cycling portion of the tour.
Exclusions:
- International Flights: Airfare to and from the tour starting and ending points.
- Personal Expenses: Expenses for souvenirs, snacks, and personal items.
- Alcoholic Beverages: Drinks and beverages not included in meal packages.
- Tips and Gratuities: Recommended tips for guides and support staff.
- Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance (customers are encouraged to obtain their own).
- Optional Activities: Costs for optional tours or activities outside the planned itinerary.
- Emergency Costs: Any additional expenses incurred due to medical emergencies or unforeseen circumstances.
