Tiger Leaping Gorge (虎跳峡) is one of the deepest and most spectacular river canyons in the world, located in Yunnan Province, southwestern China. It lies between the towns of Lijiang and Shangri-La, carved by the Jinsha River (a major tributary of the Yangtze River). The gorge stretches about 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) and reaches depths of up to 3,790 meters (12,434 feet), making it a dramatic destination for hikers and nature lovers.
The gorge is divided into three main sections:
Upper Tiger Leaping Gorge – The narrowest section, with a famous rock in the center of the river where, according to legend, a tiger leaped across to escape a hunter.
Middle Tiger Leaping Gorge – Known for its steep drops and dangerous rapids, including the “Mantianxing” reef area, which is considered the most treacherous part.
Lower Tiger Leaping Gorge – Offers panoramic views of the entire gorge and includes ferry crossings for hikers continuing to nearby villages.
Tiger Leaping Gorge is a world-renowned hiking destination. The most popular trail is the High Trail, which takes 1.5 to 2 days to complete and offers stunning views of the gorge, waterfalls, and the snow-capped Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Haba Snow Mountain.
Best time to visit is during spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October), when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its most vibrant. The rainy season (June–September) is best avoided due to risks of landslides and falling rocks.
Local villages like Nuoyu Village serve as rest stops for hikers and are home to the Naxi people, who traditionally rely on agriculture and herbal medicine.
In summary, Tiger Leaping Gorge is not only a natural wonder but also a cultural and adventure hotspot, offering a memorable experience for trekkers and travelers alike.