Classic Yunnan Hiking: Tiger Leaping Gorge and Yubeng Trek to See the Sunlight on the Golden Mountain

My first hike was dedicated to Tiger Leaping Gorge + Yubeng route! Although the whole journey was so tough it made me question life, the moment I saw the sunlight on the Golden Peak of the Goddess Mountain, it was all worth it💫

🏔️Route Sharing:
Day 1-2 Tiger Leaping Gorge High Trail Hike
📍Location: Tiger Leaping Gorge Town, Shangri-La City, Diqing Prefecture, Yunnan Province
✨Highlights: Experience the roar of the Jinsha River, walking along the cliff edge on the high trail is super thrilling!

Day 3-5 Yubeng Secret Realm Trek
📍Location: Yunling Township, Deqin County, Diqing Prefecture, Yunnan Province
✨Must-visit spots:
✔️Divine Waterfall (an avalanche encounter was incredibly shocking❄️)
✔️Divine Lake (a stunning alpine lake💧)
✔️Ice Lake (glacial meltwater is so healing)
✔️Ninong (experience the ancient Tibetan village)

Although I didn’t see Kawagebo at Daguo Fengding and Feilai Temple (crying😭), I unexpectedly caught a few seconds of the sunlight on the Golden Peak of the Goddess Mountain early morning in Yubeng Village!🌄 The moment the golden light shone on the snow mountain was truly breathtaking!!

Before returning, I enjoyed a distant view of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain at Black Dragon Pool Park (📍Ancient Town, Lijiang City), a perfect ending🏔️

TIPS:
1️⃣Best season: September to November (end of rainy season with more sunny days)
2️⃣Recommended gear: windbreaker + hiking boots + sunscreen
3️⃣Don’t underestimate altitude sickness, remember to bring glucose

This route is definitely worth a second trip!!
Planning to challenge the Cordyceps route + Nise route next year💪