7 Days Nujiang Grand Canyon Cycling Tour

our Highlights

  • Breathtaking Scenery: Cycle along the renowned Nujiang Beautiful Highway (怒江美丽公路) and witness the dramatic Nujiang Grand Canyon (怒江大峡谷) with its towering cliffs and rushing river.

  • Cultural Immersion: Encounter the local ethnic culture in areas such as Dali Ancient Town (大理古城) and interact with communities in remote villages.

  • Adventure & Challenge: Experience a mix of well-maintained highways and rugged mountain roads with sharp turns—offering both excitement and a true test of endurance.

  • Iconic Landmarks: Highlights include Tiger’s Leap (老虎跳), Flying Stone (飞来石), and the historic Tea-Horse Trail (茶马古道), among others.


Tour Overview

This 7-day cycling tour takes you from the urban charm of Kunming (昆明) to the historic city of Dali (大理), then deep into the heart of the Nujiang region. You will ride along the legendary Nujiang Beautiful Highway (怒江美丽公路), a route of approximately 288 kilometers renowned for its deep canyons and majestic natural features. Along the way, you’ll experience both physical challenges and rich cultural insights as you pass through small ethnic communities and awe-inspiring landscapes.


Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Kunming (昆明) → Dali (大理) – Approx. 340 km

  • Morning: Depart early from Kunming (昆明). Enjoy the ride through scenic rural roads with views of Dian Lake (滇池) along the way.

  • Afternoon: Arrive in Dali (大理) around midday. Rest, have lunch, and get acquainted with the local vibe.

  • Evening: Stroll around Dali Ancient Town (大理古城), sampling local dishes and soaking up the cultural atmosphere.

  • Overnight: Stay in Dali (大理) to rest up for the next leg of your journey.


Day 2: Dali (大理) → Liuku Town (六库镇) – Approx. 250 km

  • Morning: After breakfast, start cycling from Dali (大理) toward Liuku Town (六库镇) on gentle country roads.

  • Afternoon: Make short stops at local villages along the way to experience traditional customs.

  • Evening: Arrive in Liuku Town (六库镇) and visit nearby attractions such as local panoramas and historical sites.

  • Overnight: Rest in Liuku Town (六库镇) to prepare for the upcoming challenges.


Day 3: Liuku Town (六库镇) → Fougong (福贡县) → Bingzhongluo (丙中洛) – Approx. 280 km

  • Morning: Depart from Liuku Town (六库镇) and ride through Fougong County (福贡县), enjoying dramatic views of the canyon.

  • Highlights: Stop along the way at Tiger Leaping Gorge(虎跳峡) and Feilaisi (飞来寺) for memorable photo opportunities.

  • Afternoon: Continue until you reach Bingzhongluo (丙中洛), known for its mystical “people and gods coexisting” ambiance.

  • Overnight: Stay in Bingzhongluo (丙中洛) and immerse yourself in the local culture.


Day 4: Bingzhongluo (丙中洛) → Gongshan (贡山县) → Dulong Township (独龙江乡) – Approx. 170 km

  • Morning: Start from Bingzhongluo (丙中洛) and ride toward Gongshan (贡山县). Enjoy views of High Gaigong Mountain (高黎贡山) and Bi Luo Snow Mountain (碧罗雪山) framing the canyon.

  • Afternoon: Enter Dulong Township (独龙江乡), a region with pristine natural scenery and authentic village life.

  • Overnight: Camp or check into a local guesthouse in Dulong Township (独龙江乡) for a quiet night.


Day 5: Dulong Township (独龙江乡) → Gongshan (贡山县) → Laomudeng (老姆登) – Approx. 250 km

  • Morning: Leave Dulong Township (独龙江乡) and cycle back toward Gongshan (贡山县), tackling sections with narrow, winding roads.

  • Highlights: Experience the thrill of suspension bridges and challenging curves.

  • Afternoon: Arrive in Laomudeng (老姆登), a quaint town where you can relax and absorb the local atmosphere.

  • Overnight: Spend the night in Laomudeng (老姆登).


Day 6: Laomudeng (老姆登) → Lujianba (潞江坝) – Approx. 240 km

  • Morning: Set off from Laomudeng (老姆登), riding along continuous vistas of deep canyons and rugged landscapes.

  • Highlights: Enjoy the raw beauty of the Nujiang region as you cycle.

  • Afternoon: Arrive in Lujianba (潞江坝), known for its natural hot springs.

  • Evening: Unwind with a rejuvenating hot spring bath and perhaps join a local bonfire.

  • Overnight: Stay in Lujianba (潞江坝) to relax and recover.


Day 7: Lujianba (潞江坝) → Longjiang Bridge (龙江特大桥) → Dali (大理) – Approx. 180 km

  • Morning: Depart early from Lujianba (潞江坝) and cycle toward the stunning Longjiang Bridge (龙江特大桥), offering sweeping views of the canyon and river.

  • Afternoon: Begin your return journey to Dali (大理), enjoying the blend of natural beauty and a sense of accomplishment.

  • Evening: Arrive in Dali (大理) and celebrate the conclusion of your adventure with a hearty meal.

  • Overnight: Option to extend your stay in Dali (大理) for further exploration or rest.


Additional Tips:

  • Preparation: Make sure to carry sufficient water, high-energy snacks, and repair tools, as resupply points are limited in remote sections.

  • Safety: Check daily weather and road conditions; riding in a group or with a local guide is highly recommended.

  • Respect: Always respect local customs and traditions, and practice Leave No Trace principles to protect these pristine areas.