Not Your Mother's Yunnan - Yubeng Village, Tibetan Shangri-La and Tiger Leaping Gorge
Highlights
#CoreMemories
Why we love this experience
Adventure in the Heart of Shangri-La
Step off the beaten path into Yunnan’s dramatic mountains and hidden villages. Adventure, culture, and unforgettable views await.
Discover Wild Yunnan
Explore Yunnan beyond the city lights. Trek to Yubeng, Glacier Lake, and Tiger Leaping Gorge, and witness the golden glow of Meili Snow Mountain.
Hike Sacred Trails, Chase Golden Peaks
A 10-day journey of epic hikes and cultural immersion. From sacred Yubeng trails to ancient Lijiang, experience breathtaking landscapes.
Embrace the extraordinary with this exclusive Yunnan Sotravel expedition, where adventure and cultural discovery await you at every turn! Unlike your parents' city tour, you will see sights no tour bus can bring you to!
In 10 days, experience thrilling adventures such as trekking through the remote and mystical Yubeng Village, a hidden Himalayan gem accessible only on foot, hiking to the breathtaking Glacier Lake, and chasing the sacred God’s Waterfall, a pilgrimage site deeply revered by locals. We’ll also embark on the world-renowned Tiger Leaping Gorge trek, where the gushing Yangtze River serves as your perfect Instagram backdrop, and witness the sun slowly painting the peaks of Meili Snow Mountain*in mesmerizing golden hues.
Expand your cultural horizons by visiting the Tibetan Dukezong ancient town in Shangri-La, learning from the monks at Songzanlin Monastery, spinning the Giant Prayer Wheel, and exploring the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ancient Lijiang City, where you can enjoy outdoor karaoke sessions at the stone-cobbled night markets!
What makes Yubeng Village so special? Nestled deep in the Meili Snow Mountain range and surrounded by towering peaks, Yubeng offers a unique blend of adventure, culture, and serenity. The trails take you through lush forests, alpine meadows, and sacred Tibetan pilgrimage sites, offering a rare chance to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature. Unlike technical mountain climbs, Yubeng’s treks provide both challenge and accessibility, making it perfect for those seeking an unforgettable adventure without the need for specialized mountaineering skills.
Get ready for a journey filled with breathtaking scenery, cultural immersion, and unforgettable hikes!
View full itineraryWhat's included
Day 1: Not Included Day 2-5: Breakfast only Day 6-8: Not Included Day 9-10: Breakfast On..Day 1: Not Included Day 2-5: Breakfast only..
Trekking poles will be provided during the hikes.Trekking poles will be provided during the ..
Round-trip airport transfer service from Kunming Airport. Private vehicle service throug..Round-trip airport transfer service from Ku..
Twin-sharing in 3-star hotels and homestays.Twin-sharing in 3-star hotels and homestays..
During this trip, the tour guide, hiking guide, and driver will be the same person. They..During this trip, the tour guide, hiking gu..
Our Group Leaders are passionate travellers just like you. They share the experience aut..Our Group Leaders are passionate travellers..
Flights not included. By joining you will receive our recommended routes.Flights not included. By joining you will r..
4.6
Past memories
Latest reviews
"Great unexpected views in the mountains. Hiking in ...
"Loved all the hiking (both sunny and snowy!) that ...
"Good mix of heavy and light days"
"Itinerary was a good combination of 2 day hike, 2 ...
"Authentic experience of Shangrila wilderness. Loca ...
"Such a fun adventure in Shangri-la. This trip is ...
"Quite challenging due to the steep inclines and al ...
"People ✨"
"It wasn’t the most beginner-friendly itinerary, bu ...
"shoutout to our local guide 次理！he is great and mad ...
"The locations were well picked, scenic and beautif ...
"Views are amazing "
"Great friends made in a beautiful place!"
"Sick views (yubeng was actually special, didn't ma ...
"Fun filled yet uniquely planned itinerary"
"gorgeous views, awesome company, amazing food!! w ...
"Damn well planned, sick stuff. Memories for a life ...
"Good friendship"
"The mix of cultural elements and the views (+ food ...
Itinerary
Additional Information
Arrival information
Fly to Kunming Airport; group transfer departs at 6:00 AM to connect with the 8:00 AM high-speed train to Lijiang, then onward transfer to the hotel.
Pick up
6:00 AM
Kunming Airport
Arrive and check in
Accommodation
Alternatively, meet the guide at Kunming Railway Station (South Entrance) at 7:00 AM to take the 8:00 AM high-speed train to Lijiang, then transfer to the hotel.
Pick up
7:00 AM
Kunming Railway Station – South Entrance
Arrive and check in
Accommodation
Other requirements
During highland trekking in Yunnan, travelers may experience altitude sickness, exhaustion, accidental injuries, or animal bites. Listen to your local guides! Due to the high-altitude trekking routes, please assess your physical condition before undertaking any of the hikes.
How does accommodation & rooming work?
By default, solo travelers are matched with same-gender roommates. If you're traveling with friends, you can choose to room together. Private rooms are sometimes available at an additional fee at checkout.
Trip confirmation & minimum participants
Most trips require a minimum of 4 and cap at 20 participants. Booking early helps the trip reach confirmation faster — and you'll enjoy our early bird discount.
Is flight included?
Flights are not included, giving you flexibility to book your own. We recommend booking after your trip is confirmed. Once you've booked, we'll send you a detailed trip pamphlet with recommended flight options and more details about your trip.
Cancellation & refund policy
Cancel before the deadline shown at checkout and receive a full refund in credits. If we cancel the trip due to insufficient participants, you'll receive a full cash refund.
Physical level
This itinerary is crafted for thrill-seekers with moderate fitness levels. Expect to trek an average of 5–6 hours per day during the hiking segments. The maximum elevation reached will be 3,900m, where altitude sickness can become a risk, especially for those unacclimatized. Symptoms may include headaches, nausea, fatigue, and dizziness. While the itinerary is designed for gradual acclimatization, it's important to listen to your body and inform your guide immediately if you feel unwell.
To prepare, focus on more strenuous training — including long-distance hikes with a weighted backpack. Incorporate steep ascents and descents to build both stamina and strength, giving your body the best chance to perform well at altitude.
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation, to ensure peace of mind throughout the adventure.
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Why choose to travel with us?
Guides & leaders you can trust
Our guides and leaders are carefully selected and trained to deliver a safe and unforgettable Sotravel adventure.
Can't do alone adventures
We put together adventures that are best experienced with a group of like-minded individuals.
Just show up and enjoy yourself
Our team has done the heavy lifting on our end so all you have to do is show up for your adventure!
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