The definition of a secret realm is like the thousand Hamlets in a thousand people’s hearts, but Shangri-La is undoubtedly a place that exists in everyone’s mind.
On this land, we have discovered too many surprises, including the famous Meili Sunlit Golden Mountain, the original village of Yubeng known as the “paradise outside the world”, the Tiger Leaping Gorge known as the “first dangerous pass of the Yangtze River”, and the Baishuitai where mountains and rivers are intertwined with culture… These extremely beautiful secret realms hidden in the deep mountains, we will connect them this time, go deep into them, and savor their charm.
Previously, supermodel Liu Wen’s check-in photos brought Hujia Gorge back into the spotlight! Grasslands, forests, snow-capped mountains, lakes, villages, temples, cattle, horses… Dive into niche and pristine attractions to discover unique scenery, every frame and every grid here is enchanting.
Walking from the bustling city to the wilderness, the sense of disparity feels both novel and thrilling. From the deep mountains and wilderness to ethnic villages and ancient temples, this time, we have found the true Shangri-La in “Lost Horizon”.
Hutiaoxia is located in the Shangri-La city of Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Yunnan Province, within the territory of Hutiaoxia Town. The canyon is flanked by towering mountains, with Jade Dragon Snow Mountain to the east and Haba Snow Mountain to the west. The terrain is steep and treacherous, where the Yangtze River, known as the “Changjiang” or “Long River”, rushes through the narrow pass, creating a roaring and surging spectacle of water and rocks.
Hutiaoxia is known as one of the top ten classic hiking trails in the world and has always been favored by domestic and international hikers. The entire route is well-developed and mature, making it one of the classic entry-level hiking trails.
Hutiaoxia is acclaimed as “China’s most beautiful canyon”, consisting of the upper, middle, and lower sections of Hutiaoxia, as well as the high road hiking trail, which is part of the world’s top ten classic hiking routes.
The hiking trail is about 16 kilometers long, with various routes to choose from. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced hiker, you can find a suitable route that suits you, which can be described as “abundant and frugal” according to one’s preference.
Beside you is Haba Snow Mountain, and in the distance are the Jade Dragon Thirteen Peaks. Along the way, there are jungles, canyons, ancient paths, and waterfalls, with a majestic momentum that is breathtaking. Hiking through it, when you look up at the sky, you can see a line of sky between two mountains that are about to embrace each other above the towering cliffs; when you look down at the water, the Jinsha River displays an unstoppable heroic spirit, with a vast and turbulent flow rushing downstream.
We can choose a route to appreciate the stunning landscapes of the nature reserve, visit world-famous hiking spots, and the legendary Halfway Inn. After attending outdoor safety courses and learning about equipment usage, as well as sharing knowledge about natural geography, we will embark on a light hike to Rainbow Bridge and visit the legendary beauty spot inn for lunch. We will then hike to Longdong Waterfall, enjoying the magnificent canyon landscapes along the way, and take a delicious afternoon tea break by the waterfall.
Additionally, we can venture into the secret pastoral area, which is located in the core area of a natural reserve above the pristine forest at the foot of the snow-capped mountains. Wildflowers bloom on the meadows, and the forest is painted with a layer of colorful frost in autumn. You can either hike through the forest or ride a horse on the pasture, fully immersing yourself in the beauty of nature and its creatures.
The secret of the Canyon
Although it is not as grand in scale as Pamukkale, it still retains its enchanting white beauty. It is also one of the birthplaces of the Dongba religion of the Naxi people, adding a touch of ethnic charm compared to Turkey’s Pamukkale.
The snow-covered hills of various sizes are piled up like cotton balls, and the square hot spring pools are as bright as mirrors, reflecting the blue sky and white clouds.
Baishui Tai is located at the foot of Haba Snow Mountain, at an altitude of 2,380 meters. It takes about 2 hours to drive from Tiger Leaping Gorge to get there. It is as white as jade, resembling layers of terraced fields, and is also known as the “Fairy’s Field”, which is the largest spring terrace in the country.
These white steps are actually formed by the slow flow of calcium bicarbonate-rich spring water, with carbonates precipitating over the years. The distinct layers of the fields outline the natural and graceful lines, filled with clear and transparent water, which under the reflection of the blue sky, seems to turn into a mysterious blue.
Entering the Tibetan region, pilgrimage is an eternal theme that attracts countless travelers. Along the way, the perception of faith is not only at the so-called tourist attractions, but also by walking into the lives of the locals, understanding the true daily life of the Tibetan people, being a genuine traveler, and feeling with the heart.
Qu Deng Ge and Fei Lai Temple
Qu Deng Ge, full name “Qu Deng Xi Ge Rang Jiang”, means “Natural Crystal Tower”. According to the “Lotus Sutra”, it was placed here by the Indian Lotus Master with divine power. At Qu Deng Ge, you can burn Sang, pour lime water, light butter lamps, and turn the tower, leaving a mark in the most simple and local way.
After exiting the Qudeng Pavilion and continuing to walk upwards, you will arrive at the Feilai Temple, which in Tibetan is known as “Jue Wu Nankar Zaxi,” meaning “auspicious emptiness,” and symbolizes the “flying Buddha statue.” Inside the temple, you will find murals depicting the Tibetan view of life and death, the Six Realms of Samsara. From the viewing platform, you can enjoy the visual impact of Kawagebo up close, and the sight of colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind is truly awe-inspiring.
Our itinerary will take you to the Qudeng Pavilion and Feilai Temple. For travelers, the ritualistic aspect of pilgrimage is best embodied by first obtaining the key from the Qudeng Pavilion. As the first stop of the circumambulation, pilgrims always come here to “get the key.” In reality, there is no actual key, but rather, the circumambulators walk around the Qudeng Pavilion in a clockwise direction, completing an odd number of laps to receive the blessings of the gods.
Songzanlin Monastery
Songzanlin Monastery is the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan Province and is also the center of the Gelug sect in the Sichuan and Yunnan regions, holding a significant position in the entire Tibetan area.
The entire monastery is built on a hillside, resembling an ancient fortress. With its red cornices, pink-white walls, and golden temple roofs, it shines brightly under the scorching sun of the plateau, captivating the eyes. The architectural style of the monastery is similar to that of the Potala Palace, hence it is known as the “Little Potala Palace.”
Meiri Snow Mountain
The Meili Snow Mountain is the collective name for thirteen peaks with an average altitude of over 6,000 meters, also known as the “Prince’s Thirteen Peaks.” It is located at the southeastern edge of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, at the junction of Sichuan, Yunnan, and Tibet, and in the hinterland of the Hengduan Mountains. It is revered as the “world’s most beautiful mountain” and the “god of snow mountains.”
Going deep into Meili, if the continuous snow-capped mountains allow you to appreciate the magnificent landscape, then Kawagebo will let you understand the devotion of faith.
The immortal left the field
In the hearts of Tibetans, it is considered the local snow mountain deity, and it is the sacred mountain that Tibetan Buddhists worship throughout their lives. By circumambulating the mountain, they aim to eliminate their own sins while expressing their reverence and worship for the “divine.”
The “Sunshine on the Golden Mountain” of Meili Snow Mountain is one of its most distinctive highlights, attracting many travelers who come to witness this wonder of the sacred mountain.
In the early morning, the sunlight pierces through the clouds and shines on the snow-capped mountain, presenting a golden yellow color that gradually expands, creating a breathtaking spectacle of mountains and sky bathed in golden light, forming the stunning “Sunshine on the Golden Mountain” phenomenon. In an instant, the entire snow mountain seems like a celestial palace, a fairyland, and also like thousands of golden lotus flowers in full bloom.
Yubeng Village is located in the heart of the Kawagebo Mountain, which means “the place where turquoise is piled up”. It is said that Dorje Phagmo, a deity, established a pure land in the Kawagebo area.
When you enter Yubeng, it means you are getting closer and closer to the three huge snow-capped mountains, Kawagebo, Meili Mountain (Goddess Peak), and Jiwa Renan Peak (Five Crowns Peak).
Shang Yubeng Village is located at the foot of Kawagebo Snow Mountain. It is the only way to Xiao Nong Base Camp and Bing Lake, and it is also the closest village to Kawagebo.
Rainfall collapse village, only a half-hour walk from the upper rainfall collapse village, the terrain is relatively flat and open, and it is a must-pass road to the divine waterfall and divine lake. There is a small pond in the village where you can take pictures of the snow mountain reflection, it’s amazing!
The essence of the collapse is all concentrated on the way to the ice lake, the divine waterfall, and the divine lake. The best way to experience all of this is by hiking.
At an altitude of 3,800 meters, the glacial lake, all the way through, you can see the lush plateau meadows, the noble and lazy sea buckthorn forest, and the yellow windbell flowers all over the mountains… All of which are intoxicating. Even if you are leaning on a mountaineering stick, gasping for breath, and getting rained on, you will definitely not miss the scenery of the primeval forest at every angle, forests, streams, pastures, snow mountains, valleys, glaciers… You can catch them all in your mind.
Pilgrimage path
When you stand in front of the ice lake at the end point, you can feel the closest distance to the sacred mountain! Standing in the heart of the sacred mountain, with your hands folded and praying devoutly, you can feel the sacred majesty of the snow mountain from the bottom of your heart.
Let go of impatience and resentment, and with a calm and devout heart, in the name of pilgrimage and hiking, perceive the power of nature and glimpse the beliefs of the Tibetan people.
