Trekking at Tiger Leaping Gorge
Lijiang and its surroundings were so fascinating that I decided to go one more time. With my friend and guide, Haba, I organized a 2-day trekking tour at Tiger Leaping Gorge. He knows a lot of hidden spots like this temple that enjoys a panoramic view of Lijiang.
After sunset, we enjoyed the cozy and nostalgic atmosphere of Lijiang Old Town before heading for dinner at a Naxi guesthouse before getting ready for our upcoming adventure.
Next morning started fairly early with a 2 1/2 hour drive to Qiaotou. There are two trails. We decided to go for the higher route, known as the 24-bend path which is about 30 km long overcoming more than 1500 meters altitude difference: a challenge for most but well worth it.
Its one of the deepest gorges in the world and it is an incredible 3900m from the waters of the Yangzi River to the snowcapped mountaintops of Haba Shan (Haba Mountain) to the West and Yulong Xueshan to the East.
Our first stop was a Naxi Guesthouse where we stopped for a tea. The family was extremely welcoming and their house offers a magnificent views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
From here the fun really began as we hit the trail's toughest stretch - a steep 600-meter switchback ascent known as the 24 bends. Even experienced hikers will likely need to take a break or two at some point on this ascent, which tops out at 2,400 meters.
Haba and I took the challenge and we rushed up the trail. I followed Haba as fast as I could and was completely soaked and out of breath when we finally reached the top. Haba looked at his watch and started smiling. He did this trail at least 50 times, but he never went this fast!
We stopped for a well deserved break at the Tea and Horse Guest house and the family welcomed us with a warm pork soup. The food was simple, but I truly enjoyed every bit of it.
Haba initially wanted to stay here overnight, however, as we were already half-way through the trek we decided to push on.
The path became narrower and it was easy to see why many people died here. A Korean tour guide lost his life 3 month ago as he dropped off the cliff while speaking on the phone.
It is a breathtaking hike amid soaring cliffs and waterfalls. The scenery was really incredible, unfortunately my camera skills really cannot do it justice...
We filled up our bottles at the waterfall. It was getting a bit dark and Haba said that if we hurry up we could already make it to Bridge Caffe Guest House which marks the end of the trek.
We reached there just before dawn. The guesthouse is Haba's favorite and is run by a nice Japanese lady and her Naxi family. The house is directly on top of a bridge and the homemade food was delicious.
The accommodation is basic, but the view is priceless: you are sitting on top of the Running Yangtze with huge mountains on both sides.
We enjoyed the day so much that Haba and I decided to walk back the next day! When we met the Naxi families again, they called us 'crazy'... At the end, I was completely exhausted, but it was an unforgettable adventure.
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