Tiger Leaping Gorge

What it is

Tiger Leaping Gorge (虎跳峡) lies on the Jinsha River in Yunnan Province, between Lijiang and Shangri-La. The gorge is about 15 km long and reaches a maximum depth of 3,900 meters, making it one of the deepest in the world. The river here drops rapidly, creating a series of powerful rapids that roar through the narrow chasm. The surrounding peaks, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (5,596 m) and Haba Snow Mountain (5,396 m), tower above, creating a dramatic landscape that has attracted travelers and photographers for decades.

The gorge is divided into three sections: Upper, Middle, and Lower. The Upper Gorge is the most accessible, with a paved walkway and the famous Tiger Leaping Stone, where the river narrows to just 30 meters. The Middle Gorge offers the most spectacular scenery, including the intense 'Tiger Leaping' rapids and the challenging '28 Bends' hiking trail. The Lower Gorge is less visited but equally beautiful. The area is home to ethnic minorities including Naxi, Yi, and Tibetan people, whose villages dot the slopes. Our guides can arrange permits and transportation, and ensure you hike the right section for your fitness level.

Highlights

• Tiger Leaping Stone — Stand on the legendary rock where a tiger allegedly leapt across the 30-meter-wide chasm; the roar of the Jinsha River is deafening.
• 28 Bends Trail — Hike the iconic high trail with 28 switchbacks, rewarded with panoramic views of the gorge and snow peaks; a full-day trek for fit hikers.
• Middle Gorge Rapids — Witness the most turbulent section of the river, where water crashes through narrow rock walls, creating a spectacular display of nature's power.
• Haba Snow Mountain Views — From the high trail, enjoy uninterrupted vistas of Haba Snow Mountain's glaciated peaks, especially stunning at sunrise and sunset.
• Naxi and Tibetan Villages — Visit local villages like Walnut Garden and Sean's Guesthouse, where you can experience traditional hospitality and cuisine.

How to get there

From Shangri-La or Lijiang, take a private car or bus to the gorge entrance (about 2 hours from either city). Our guide will arrange a comfortable transfer, and you can choose to hike the Upper Gorge (easy) or the Middle Gorge (moderate to strenuous). The drive itself offers stunning views of the Jinsha River and the mountains. We recommend starting early to avoid crowds and to have enough time for hiking and photography.

Tickets & practical info

Entrance fee: ¥45 per person (includes Upper Gorge). Middle Gorge may require an additional fee of ¥65 for the trail. Opening hours: 8:00-18:00 (may vary seasonally). Book through our guide to skip lines; WeChat Pay and Alipay accepted, but foreign cards may not work at ticket counters, so bring cash or use our assistance.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit is from October to May, when the weather is dry and clear, offering the best views of the snow mountains. Avoid the rainy season (June to September) due to landslide risks and muddy trails. For photography, early morning or late afternoon provides soft light and fewer crowds. Weekdays are less busy than weekends.

Tips from our guides

• Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip; the trails can be steep and slippery, especially after rain.
• Bring plenty of water and snacks; there are limited shops along the hiking trails, and prices are higher.
• Start your hike early (before 9 AM) to avoid the heat and crowds, and to have enough daylight.
• If you're not a confident hiker, stick to the Upper Gorge's paved walkways; the Middle Gorge's 28 Bends is challenging and requires good fitness.
• Respect local customs; ask before taking photos of villagers, and avoid littering—help keep the gorge pristine.

FAQ