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Gaoligong Mountain, located in Baoshan City and Lushui County in northwestern Yunnan Province, lies on the west bank of the Nujiang River. It is a key component of the Three Parallel Rivers World Heritage Site and the largest nature reserve in Yunnan Province. Its goal is to protect the biological, climatic, and vertically zonal landscapes, diverse vegetation types, and numerous rare and endangered plant and animal species. Due to its biodiversity, it is hailed by academics as the "World Gene Bank" and is a designated World Biosphere Reserve.
Gaoli is the transliteration of the name of a family of the Jingpo ethnic group. "Gong" means "mountain" in Jingpo language. Gaoligong means "the mountain of the Gaoli family".
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 "King of the Azaleas," produces over 40,000 blossoms annually, creating a breathtaking spectacle. Furthermore, the Gaoligong Mountains, dotted with cascading waterfalls, springs, snow-capped mountains, and lakes, are also home to volcanic hot springs, creating a breathtaking scenery that makes them a paradise for photographers and hikers.
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". May is the best time to travel.
1 day
free
All day
The Gaoligong Mountains are a UNESCO World Heritage site known for their ecological diversity and unique flora and fauna. The area has been a critical corridor for species migration and houses numerous endemic and endangered species. It is also culturally significant due to the indigenous communities that have lived there for centuries.
The Gaoligong Mountains stretch along the western Yunnan border with Myanmar. The main access points are via Lushui or Fugong counties. Visitors typically arrive by bus or private car from major cities like Dali or Ruili, then continue on foot or with local guides into hiking trails and villages.
Entry fees vary depending on the specific reserve or trail. Tickets are generally purchased offline at visitor centers. Some major reserves may offer online booking via official tourism websites or local travel platforms.
Booking is recommended during peak seasons (spring and autumn) at least 1–2 weeks in advance to secure guides or accommodation.
3–5 days are recommended to explore major trails, villages, and scenic spots comprehensively.
Guided tours in Mandarin are widely available; some agencies offer English-speaking guides. Audio guides are rare, so hiring a local guide is recommended for detailed ecological and cultural information.
Night tours are generally not recommended due to safety. Special guided night treks may be arranged in some areas with permits. Light shows are not typical; cultural performances in villages may be available on select nights.
The area is generally not crowded except during major national holidays. Weekdays during spring and autumn are the least crowded.
Many trails are steep and rugged; suitable for moderately fit visitors. Some scenic viewpoints and village areas are accessible for elderly and children. Disabled access is limited.
Cash is recommended in villages and small shops. Mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are accepted in more developed towns and visitor centers.
Vegetarian options are generally available; halal options may be limited and should be confirmed locally.
Souvenirs include handmade textiles, traditional Lisu crafts, local teas, and dried fruits or herbs.
