About 100 kilometers (62 miles) northwest of Lijiang Old Town lying between Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (Yulong Xueshan) and Haba Snow Mountain (Haba Xueshan) is Tiger Leaping Gorge (Hutiao Gorge), which is believed to be the deepest gorge in the world. From the top of the gorge you look down the steeply angled (70-90 degrees) mountain sides to the rushing Golden Sands (Jingsha) River with its 18 frothing rapids more than 200 meters (about 700 feet) below.
Naturally divided into three sections, the first section, which is the narrowest and uppermost section, is the mouth of the fast flowing Jingsha River. In the midst of the river's mouth is a large rock that is positioned at the gorge's narrowest section-only 30 meters (33 yards) wide. An ancient legend says that a tiger used this rock as its stepping stone so it could leap across from one side of the gorge to the other, which is how the gorge got its name.
As the river enters the middle section, it drops another 100 meters (330 feet) and its flow rate increases to an amazing speed. Here the thunderous rushing waters slam into sharp, large rocks and crash down into the river forming swirling whirlpools. Can it get more exciting? Yes, it can as the third and lowest section is acclaimed for being the wildest attraction of all!
The cliffs over-looking this section are even steeper and much more dangerous. Here, the river twists and turns and the river vigorously surges forward creating high waves and a frothy spew as it collides with the mountainsides. This is a view that inspires a sense of adventure and satisfies the deepest yearnings for magnificent scenery.
The gorge stretches about 15 kilometers (nine miles) and also affords people the possibility of rafting and drifting peacefully in its large quiet sections, for the gentler folks among us and an exciting rafting adventure for the more experienced. Do not want to raft?
Useful Tips: This is a great sightseeing stop with enormous photo opportunities. Bring your camera, wear skidproof shoes, and be prepared to be astonished.
| Admission Fee: | CNY 50 |
| Recommended Time for a Visit: | Two hours |
| Opening Hours: | 08:30 to 18:00 |
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Travelers' Voices on Tiger Leaping Gorge (Hutiao Gorge)
1.
Jun. 27,2009 08:30 Reply
Mr.Akash (India) said:
Do they have any student discounts at entrance at these awesome places of Lijiang?
Jun. 28,2009 02:30
Ms.Jenny replied:
There is discount for Chinese students with their student Identity card. I am afraid no available for foreign students.
Jun. 28,2009 21:49
Mr.Akash (India) replied:
Well, I suppose that applies for us too, since everywhere where there is student discount at sightseeing spots, they will give us too.
Jul. 1,2009 09:13
Mr.Brett James(USA) replied:
There is a student discount at the entrance. I just hiked the gorge with a group of my students from the US last week.
Jul. 1,2009 20:13
Mr.Akash (India) replied:
Thanks for the info!
Hope I have a blast like you guys!
2.
Jun. 29,2009 23:50 Reply
Ms.Deanna(Singapore) said:
Can I ask how to get here from Lijiang?
Jun. 30,2009 02:23
Mr.Alan replied:
As I know, there is tour special bus departing from Lijiang Transport Service Center Bus Station to the gorge at every morning. Hope this helps!
3.
Mar. 2,2009 03:06 Reply
Mr.Hank(Singapore) said:
In the scenic area of the Tiger Leaping Gorge, there are many good restaurants and cafes. Besides viewing the natural scenery, I think,it will be a very good experience to try the Chinese food there.
May. 31,2009 16:53
Mr.Brother(England) replied:
Thanks Mr. Hank. I agree the scenery was beautiful but the real highlight was the food. Well worth the 9 hour bus trip from Kunming.