Mountain Hiking & Local Culture in Rural China
Trip overview
Embark on a 10-day hiking journey into the cultural heart of China Yunnan Province. This breathtaking region features towering mountains, pristine rivers, one of the world deepest gorges, and a rich heritage preserved by its vibrant ethnic minority communities.
Hike through remote villages and visit local families to experience their age-old way of life. Savor authentic local cuisine, admire traditional dress, and listen to the melodies of native languages. For those seeking genuine China far from bustling megacities, this is the perfect journey.
Services
Included:
- Entrance fees to scenic spots listed in itinerary
- Meals specified in itinerary
- Assistance on arrival/departure & airport/hotel/station/ferry transfers as specified in itinerary
- Flights/trains specified in itinerary, with flight, airport tax and fuel fees included
- Sightseeing & activities as listed in itinerary
- Accommodation with daily breakfast
- Private transfers between airports, hotels and scenic spots in each city or area in private, air-conditioned vehicle as listed in itinerary
- One bottle of drinking water per person per day
- Service charges
Excluded:
- Flights/sightseeing/meals/other items not listed in itinerary
- Visa application & visa fee
- Gratuities or tips
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses (e.g. room service, internet charges, laundry, drinks, telephone calls, optional activities)
- Excess baggage charge
- Optional activities
Optional:
- On request
Itinerary at a Glance
- Day 1: Lijiang — Welcome to Lijiang!
- Day 2: Lijiang - Lugu Lake — Meet the Mosuo People of Lugu Lake
- Day 3: Lugu Lake — Trek Through Old-Growth Forests to Zhuangzi Village
- Day 4: Diluo Village — Journey Across Tranquil Farmlands
- Day 5: Baoshan Stone Village — Embark on a Challenging Trek to a Yangtze River Town
- Day 6: Baoshan Stone Village - Daju — Journey to the Town of Daju
- Day 7: Daju - Tige Leaping Gorge — Feel the Power of One of the World Deepest Gorges
- Day 8: Shangri-la — Hike to Shangri-La and Watch Tibetan Dancing
- Day 9: Shangri-la — Delight in the Cultural Richness of Shangri-La
- Day 10: Shangri-la — Goodbye, Shangri-La!
Destinations on this trip
Day 1: Welcome to Lijiang
After arrival, stroll through the ancient Lijiang Old Town. Wander along peaceful waterways lined with traditional wooden houses and experience the unique culture of the local Naxi people. Later, take a 20-minute drive to Baisha Village—a well-preserved Naxi settlement where ancient customs remain intact. Walk through its lanes to admire adobe-wood houses decorated with traditional fish motifs, then visit the Dongba Museum for deeper insights into Naxi history and way of life.
Day 2: Lugu Lake & Mosuo Matrilineal Culture
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Lugu Lake, home of the Mosuo people. Break up the journey with stops at panoramic viewpoints including one offering spectacular views of Yulong Snow Mountain, and visits to charming mountain villages along the way. Upon arrival, visit a local Mosuo family to learn about their unique culture shaped by centuries of mountain isolation. Known as China "last matrilineal society," the Mosuo practice the distinctive "walking marriage" custom and preserve a rich oral history passed down through generations.
Day 3: Old-Growth Forest Trek to Zhuangzi Village
After breakfast, travel to Yongning Town in northwestern Yunnan—a mountain town with mild year-round weather, home to Mosuo, Pumi, Yi, Bai and Naxi ethnic groups. Upon arrival, visit the local Mosuo market and Zhamei Monastery, then embark on a 6-7 hour trek to Zhuangzi Village. The trail winds through ancient old-growth forests, mountain slopes and peaceful valleys, offering panoramic views of Yongning Basin and Golden San River Valley. In Zhuangzi, meet local Pumi families, a Tibetan Buddhist community. Admire their distinctive traditional clothing and experience their unique way of life.
Day 4: Tranquil Farmland Trek to Labo
After breakfast, transfer from Zhuangzi to Diluo Village (45-minute drive). From here, embark on a full-day trek to Labo. The trail winds through peaceful pine and oak forests and picturesque villages inhabited by Pumi and Mosuo people. Watch local farmers herd cattle along the way, with only the soft tinkle of horse bells breaking the serene countryside silence.
Day 5: Challenging Trek to Baoshan Stone Village
After a 1-hour drive from Labo to Lower Liuqing Naxi Village, start your challenging trek to Baoshan Stone Village. The trail follows the tranquil Jinsha River (Yangtze) before tackling Taizi Pass—a steep ascent impassable to horses. Then pass through two unlit tunnels (flashlights required) and descend a narrow, steep trail. Pause along the way for breathtaking views of Baoshan Stone Village, a dramatic settlement perched atop a massive rock overlooking the Yangtze.
Day 6: Baoshan Stone Village to Daju Tiger Leaping Gorge Gateway
This morning, enjoy leisure time exploring Baoshan Stone Village and its serene Yangtze River surroundings. After lunch, take a 3.5-hour minibus transfer to Daju Town, located at the northern entrance of Tiger Leaping Gorge. Along the way, catch distant views of the magnificent Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
Day 7: Tiger Leaping Gorge: One of the World's Deepest Gorges
After breakfast, walk to the riverfront and take a ferry across the Yangtze to Heika Village. Then hike along the gorge, passing Walnut Grove Village en route. Experience the awe-inspiring power of the rushing river as you trek between towering rock walls in this legendary natural wonder. Overnight in a local guesthouse in Bendiwan Village.
Day 8: Hike to Shangri-La & Tibetan Dance Evening
After breakfast, embark on a 6.5-7 hour hike. The trail passes local communities and guesthouses, offering breathtaking views of Yulong (Jade Dragon) Snow Mountain along the way. At the end of the hike, your driver will meet you for a transfer to Shangri-La. Check into your hotel, then enjoy an evening of traditional Tibetan dance performance.
Day 9: Immerse in Shangri-La's Tibetan Culture
Shangri-La Old Town brims with authentic Tibetan traditions. Explore this historic quarter and visit Ganden Sumtseling Monastery, a grand Tibetan Buddhist complex with distinctive local architecture. Enjoy lunch in town before heading to nearby Napa Lake. This scenic nature reserve features breathtaking highland plateaus and expansive grasslands. Spend your evening wandering Shangri-La Old Town and soaking up its profound cultural charm.
Day 10: Departure from Shangri-La
After breakfast, your 10-day Yunnan journey draws to a close. You will be transferred to Shangri-La Airport in due time for your onward flight. We hope you have enjoyed this unforgettable adventure and wish you pleasant travels ahead.
Good to know
- International flights are not included unless stated in your quote.
- Visa requirements depend on your nationality; we can advise.
- Moderate walking; some steps at heritage sites.
- Itinerary may adjust slightly for weather or local holidays.
