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Tiger Leaping Gorge is located in the northeast of Longpan Township, Yulong Naxi Autonomous County (formerly Lijiang Naxi Autonomous County), Yunnan Province. It is divided into three sections: Upper Tiger Leaping Gorge, Middle Tiger Leaping Gorge and Lower Tiger Leaping Gorge. It is famous for its danger and is one of the deepest canyons in China.
The main peak reaches 5,596 meters above sea level, while the peaks on the west bank rise over 3,000 meters above the river, a 600-meter drop greater than Hell's Canyon in the United States. Visitors to the canyon see a slit in the sky and a continuous river, with cliffs overhead and rapids at their feet, a truly thrilling experience. The collapse of the rock faults has created countless rocky ridges and cascades, creating a jagged network of reefs, treacherous rapids, and cascading waterfalls in the river.
The rainy season in Tiger Leaping Gorge is concentrated in July and August, and rockfalls and landslides are prone to occur. The best time to visit is from April to June and from September to November.
65 yuan/person
09:00-18:00
Tiger Leaping Gorge is a dramatic and awe-inspiring gorge along the Jinsha River, part of the Yangtze River. It is historically significant as it is a vital crossing point between the Tibetan Plateau and China’s inland areas. The gorge is named after a legendary tale in which a tiger allegedly leapt across the river. The area is not only known for its natural beauty but also for its cultural heritage, being home to Tibetan and Naxi communities.
Tiger Leaping Gorge is located in Yunnan Province, about 60 kilometers (37 miles) from Lijiang. The most common way to get there is by taxi or private car from Lijiang, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. You can also take a bus from Lijiang to the entrance of the gorge. Walking along the gorge trails is recommended for hiking enthusiasts.
The Tiger Leaping Gorge is open year-round. However, the best time to visit is between April and October, when the weather is generally mild and the views are clear. The summer months (June to August) are a popular time to visit, though it can also be crowded. Winter months (November to February) are colder and quieter but still offer great hiking conditions.
The entrance fee for Tiger Leaping Gorge is approximately 65 Chinese Yuan (CNY) for adults. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance to the gorge. It is not possible to buy tickets online in advance, so visitors will need to pay upon arrival.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance, as they can be bought at the entrance. However, booking transportation, accommodations, and guides in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons (spring and autumn).
To fully explore Tiger Leaping Gorge, including hiking the main trail, it typically takes 2 to 3 days. For visitors who just want to take a short walk and view the gorge from the main viewpoints, a day trip is sufficient.
Guided tours are available, with most guides speaking Chinese, though some may speak basic English. Audio guides are not typically available, so it’s advisable to hire a local guide if you want more detailed information about the area’s history and culture.
The recommended route for most visitors is to start from the entrance and hike the first section of the trail to the “Halfway Guesthouse,” where you can spend the night. From there, continue towards the upper gorge for more incredible views and a challenging hike. Some opt to do a shorter route if time is limited.
There are no night visits or light shows at Tiger Leaping Gorge. The best time to explore the gorge is during daylight hours, as the trails are not illuminated at night. However, some guesthouses along the trail offer overnight stays for trekkers, providing a unique experience of the gorge at sunset and sunrise.
The gorge can be crowded during peak seasons (spring and autumn) and weekends. To avoid crowds, it is best to visit during weekdays and during the off-season, such as late autumn or early spring.
Basic facilities are available along the hiking trail, including toilets and small rest areas. There are food options at the guesthouses along the trail, offering local and simple meals. It is advisable to bring enough water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike for extended periods.
The gorge is not very accessible for elderly visitors or those with mobility challenges, as the trails are steep and rugged. However, the entrance area and nearby viewpoints can be accessed without a hike, making it suitable for children and less mobile visitors who are not planning on extensive trekking.
Cash is required for most services in and around the gorge. While mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are becoming more common in China, they may not be accepted in remote areas like Tiger Leaping Gorge. It is best to carry Chinese Yuan in cash.
There are a few guesthouses along the hiking trail that offer simple meals and drinks. In Lijiang, there are more dining options ranging from traditional Naxi cuisine to international offerings.
Vegetarian options are available at some guesthouses along the trail, though they may be limited. Vegan and halal food may be more challenging to find, particularly in remote areas, but larger towns like Lijiang offer more variety.
Souvenir shops are available in Lijiang, where you can find handmade crafts, Naxi-style textiles, jewelry, and local tea. Some guesthouses near the gorge may also sell small trinkets.
After visiting Tiger Leaping Gorge, it is easiest to take a taxi or private car back to Lijiang. From Lijiang, you can take buses, taxis, or flights to other destinations in Yunnan.
