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The Gaoligong Mountain National Nature Reserve offers a variety of outdoor activities. Trekking and hiking are popular to explore the mountain's biodiversity. Birdwatching, especially of rare species like the endangered white-winged wood duck, is another highlight. You can also enjoy camping, photographing the stunning landscapes, and visiting local ethnic villages to learn about their culture.
The Gaoligongshan National Nature Reserve is located in Baoshan City and Lushui County in northwestern Yunnan Province, on the west bank of the Nujiang River, between 24°56′ and 28°23′ north latitude and 98°08′ and 98°53′ east longitude. With a total area of 405,200 hectares, it is the largest nature reserve in Yunnan Province. A national forest and wildlife nature reserve, it aims to protect biological, climatic, and vertically zonal landscapes, diverse vegetation types, and numerous rare and endangered plant and animal species.
Gaoligong Mountain, nestled on the west bank of the Nujiang River, is a key component of the Three Parallel Rivers UNESCO World Heritage Site. Gaoli is a transliteration of the name of a Jingpo clan. "Gong" means "mountain" in the Jingpo language, so Gaoligong means "the Gaoli clan's mountain."
Gaoligongshan National Nature Reserve, known in the academic community as the "World Species Gene Bank" for its biodiversity, is a World Biosphere Reserve. In 1986, it was approved by the State Council as a national nature reserve.
Gaoligong Mountain is steep and has undulating peaks, forming a unique three-dimensional climate with "four seasons in one mountain and different weather every ten miles". The average annual temperature is around 15 degrees Celsius, making it suitable for travel in all seasons.
Spanning five latitudes, the Gaoligong Mountains are the only region on Earth to retain a vast transition zone from humid tropical forest to temperate forest. Home to a diverse array of rare wildlife and plants, it is home to Yunnan's eight famous flowers. One large azalea tree, known as the "World Azalea King," blooms over 40,000 flowers annually, creating a breathtaking spectacle. Furthermore, the Gaoligong Mountains, dotted with cascading waterfalls, springs, and snow-capped mountain lakes, are also home to numerous volcanic hot springs.
The Gaoligong Mountain National Nature Reserve boasts diverse forest types and a vertical distribution of vegetation. A single day at Yaojiaping offers a unique experience of the four seasons of Gaoligong Mountain. From here, visitors can admire the main ridge of Gaoligong Mountain, resembling a Great Wall of Ice and Snow. They can also admire the twin waterfalls of the Dishui River, known as the "Yinshan Dart Water." Climbing further up the mountain, visitors can admire the scenery of Tingming Lake, a high-altitude glacial lake. The reserve boasts numerous attractions, including mountaintop snowscapes, the Sandieshui Waterfall, alpine hot springs, Tingming Lake, and the Tiantai Mountain Yongzhen Temple.
It is recommended to visit for about 1 day.
free
Open all day
Gaoligong Mountain is renowned for its rich biodiversity and is part of the UNESCO-listed Three Parallel Rivers of Yunnan Protected Areas. It serves as a vital conservation area, home to rare species and unique ecosystems. The reserve is also significant for its cultural heritage, being home to several indigenous ethnic groups such as the Dulong and Nu.
The Gaoligong Mountain National Nature Reserve is located in Baoshan, Yunnan Province, China. It is accessible by taxi or bus from the Baoshan city center. The nearest airport is Baoshan Airport, from where you can take a taxi or local transport to the reserve.
The reserve is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during spring and autumn when the weather is milder, and the flora and fauna are at their most vibrant. Avoid the rainy season (May to October) as trails can be slippery and difficult to navigate.
The entrance fee is generally modest, but prices can vary depending on the season or special activities. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the reserve or through local travel agencies. It’s advisable to check with local providers for availability and pricing before your visit.
For general entry, tickets can typically be bought on the day of your visit. However, if you're planning to participate in specialized tours or activities, it’s recommended to book in advance, at least a week prior to your visit, especially during peak tourist seasons.
To fully explore the Gaoligong Mountain Nature Reserve, plan for a minimum of 2 to 3 days. This will allow time for trekking, visiting the ethnic villages, and enjoying the nature and wildlife. If you’re interested in in-depth activities like photography or birdwatching, consider extending your stay.
Key highlights include the panoramic views from the mountain peaks, the diverse wildlife, and the local ethnic villages. The forest areas are perfect for hiking, and birdwatching in the early mornings or late afternoons is a popular activity. Visiting the Dulong River Valley and the surrounding natural springs is also recommended.
Guided tours are available in both Chinese and English. Local guides provide insightful commentary on the flora, fauna, and indigenous cultures of the region. Audio guides might be available for certain areas, though it’s advisable to check availability ahead of time.
The mountain peaks offer breathtaking panoramic views, especially at sunrise and sunset. The Dulong River Valley is also a great spot for capturing the landscape. For wildlife photographers, early morning or late evening near the riverbanks provides opportunities to capture rare bird species.
Start with a visit to the Dulong River Valley, then trek towards the high-altitude forest areas. If you’re interested in wildlife, plan for early morning or late afternoon hikes. Reserve at least half a day for visiting the ethnic villages to learn about the indigenous cultures of the Dulong and Nu people.
Night visits are not typically offered at the nature reserve due to safety concerns. However, during certain seasons, special eco-tours focusing on nocturnal wildlife may be available. It’s advisable to inquire locally for any night-specific tours.
The reserve is not typically crowded, but it can get busier during the peak tourist seasons (April to October). The least crowded times are during the winter months (November to February) or on weekdays during the spring and autumn months.
Basic facilities are available, including toilets, rest areas, and small local shops selling snacks and water. There are limited food options, so it’s advisable to bring your own provisions for long treks or hikes. Some tour groups provide meals, but it’s always good to check beforehand.
The reserve has some accessible trails, but it is largely designed for more rugged outdoor activities like trekking. Some areas may not be suitable for elderly or disabled visitors due to steep terrain and rough paths. It’s best to contact the reserve in advance for information on accessible routes.
Cash is commonly used in the reserve, though some larger shops may accept cards or mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay). It’s best to carry some cash for smaller purchases and local transactions.
There are no large restaurants or cafes directly inside the reserve. However, nearby towns and villages offer local eateries where you can sample traditional Yunnan cuisine, including rice noodles, smoked meats, and local tea.
Vegetarian options are available at local restaurants, with rice, tofu, and vegetables being common. Halal food options might be limited, but some Muslim-friendly restaurants in Baoshan may offer suitable dishes.
There are basic guesthouses and hotels in Baoshan, as well as in nearby villages. For a more comfortable stay, there are mid-range hotels in Baoshan City, offering easy access to the reserve. For an authentic experience, consider staying in local ethnic village homestays.
Nearby attractions include the Nujiang River Gorge and the Three Parallel Rivers of Yunnan. You can also explore local villages such as those of the Dulong and Nu ethnic groups, learning about their unique cultures and traditions.
Souvenir shops are available near the reserve, offering handicrafts such as handmade textiles, wooden carvings, and ethnic jewelry. Local tea and traditional medicinal herbs are also popular items to purchase.
After visiting the reserve, you can take a taxi or bus back to Baoshan for further travel. From Baoshan, you can catch buses or flights to other parts of Yunnan, such as Lijiang or Kunming, for more sightseeing opportunities.
