[2025 Shangri-La Attraction] Travel Guide for Laoyao Mountain (Updated Jul)

Lijiang + Shangri-La | A Magical Encounter with Atour Hotel and Laoyaoshan Mountain Embark on a spontaneous journey starting from Atour Hotel in Lijiang, then head to Laoyaoshan Mountain in Shangri-La for a hiking adventure, experiencing the perfect blend of nature and comfort. Here's your guide 👇 1. Stay at Atour Hotel on Tuanshan North Road in Lijiang's Ancient City District 📍Location: The hotel is not in the bustling center of the ancient city but is just about 3 km from Dayan Ancient Town, a 10-minute taxi ride away. This ideal distance allows you to escape the noise while still being able to visit the ancient town anytime to soak in its charm. It's approximately 30 km from Lijiang Sanyi Airport, a 40-minute drive, and about 7 km from Lijiang Railway Station, a 15-minute drive, making transportation super convenient. 🛏️Accommodation Experience: The rooms are cozy and thoughtfully arranged, with bedding made from unbleached, pure natural materials that are skin-friendly, breathable, and soft—like sleeping on a cloud. You'll enjoy a good night's sleep and wake up refreshed for the next day's adventures. The spacious rooms also feature smart guest control systems, allowing you to adjust lights, air conditioning, and curtains with just your voice or smartphone—super high-tech. 🍱Nearby Cuisine: The area is full of hidden culinary gems. Don’t miss Tian Village’s Sour Soup Yak Hotpot, where the secret sour soup is incredibly appetizing, and the yak meat is freshly cut daily from Shangri-La, tender and delicious. The restaurant also features ethnic performances, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Dian Zhi Yun’s Yunnan Hand-Picked Rice is another must-try, offering authentic Yunnan-style hand-picked rice with over ten dishes arranged on one plate, including tri-colored sticky rice—every bite is incredibly satisfying. 2. Hike to Laoyaoshan Mountain in Shangri-La 🚗Transportation Options: - Self-drive: Depart from Lijiang or Shangri-La and navigate directly to "Shangri-La Yunji Wild Luxury Hotel." However, the last stretch of the mountain road is rugged, steep, and full of sharp turns, so it’s only recommended for experienced drivers with SUVs—beginners and city drivers should skip this option. - Chartered/Shared Car: If you prefer not to drive, chartered or shared cars are convenient options that take you directly to the hiking starting point while allowing you to enjoy the scenery along the way—effortless and stress-free. - Public Transport: First, head to Tiger Leaping Gorge Town, then take a taxi from there to the hiking starting point at "Shangri-La Yunji Wild Luxury Hotel." However, public transport is infrequent, so plan your time carefully in advance. 🌄Best Travel Times: - April–June: The mountains are lush and green, with wildflowers in full bloom and alpine rhododendrons covering the slopes. You can also enjoy breathtaking views of Haba Snow Mountain and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, as well as the panoramic vista of the Jinsha River—a visual feast. - September–October: In autumn, the meadows turn golden, contrasting beautifully with the surrounding snow-capped mountains. The crisp, cool weather makes it the perfect season for hiking. 🧗Hiking Routes: - Leisurely Route: Starting from Yunji Wild Luxury Hotel, it’s just a 30-minute walk or horseback ride to Laoyaoshan Pasture. Stroll through the meadows around the pasture, take photos, and enjoy a relaxed experience—ideal for those who want to appreciate the scenery without too much exertion. - In-Depth Experience Route: After reaching the pasture from the hotel, continue ascending the slope to the ridge, where you’ll be treated to a full view of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Then, venture into the pristine forest on the left to explore a mysterious jungle world. The round trip is about 6 km and takes 3–4 hours, offering a bit of a challenge but with stunning scenery—best for those with good stamina and hiking experience. 🏠Accommodation Recommendations: - Yunji Wild Luxury Resort Hotel: Located near the hiking starting point, this hotel is super convenient for an early start the next day. The facilities are excellent, providing a comfortable rest after hiking, though prices are relatively high, starting at 1,300 CNY per night. - Tiger Leaping Gorge Town Guesthouses: For budget-friendly options, stay in Tiger Leaping Gorge Town, where there are many guesthouses priced between 100–300 CNY. However, you’ll need to arrange additional transportation from the guesthouses to Laoyaoshan. ❗Important Notes: - Altitude Sickness: Laoyaoshan is at a high elevation, so prepare altitude sickness medication like Rhodiola in advance. During the hike, take breaks and avoid strenuous activity. - Unpredictable Weather: Mountain weather can change rapidly, so bring rain gear and warm clothing, such as a windbreaker or down jacket. - Insect Protection: In summer, mosquitoes and insects are plentiful, so pack insect repellent, especially if venturing into the pristine forest. - Eco-Friendly Travel: Laoyaoshan’s ecosystem is fragile. Carry out all trash to preserve this pristine land and keep its beauty intact. This trip offers both the comfort of Atour Hotel in Lijiang and the natural wonders of Laoyaoshan in Shangri-La. What are you waiting for? Pack your bags and set off!

The charm of Laoyaoshan lies in its untamed wilderness, untouched by overdevelopment. Here, there are no orderly scenic boardwalks, but winding paths trodden by yaks; no bustling spots for social media check-ins, only the rustling sound of wind sweeping through rhododendron bushes. If you choose to set foot on the mountain trail on a May morning, remember to hold your breath when the first ray of sunlight dyes the snow-capped peaks red: that moment of awe will redefine your understanding of the word "hidden paradise." 📍Location: Laoyaoshan is located in Lianhe Village, Xiaozhongdian Town, Shangri-La City, part of the southern extension of the Haba Snow Mountain range. The main peak stands at 4,200 meters above sea level, about 100 kilometers from downtown Shangri-La. 🏔️Scenic Features: Alpine meadows, pristine fir forests, rhododendron seas in May-June (mainly yellow cup rhododendrons and purple jade plate rhododendrons), sea of clouds viewing platform, Tibetan plateau pastures. 🎫Entry Management: Registration is required before entering the mountain. Local villagers charge a fee of 💰40 RMB per person. 【🚶🏻‍♂️Hiking Routes】 ✔️Classic Laoyaoshan South Slope Loop: A single-day small loop route, approximately 6 kilometers in total, elevation range: 3,300m-3,650m, total elevation gain about 350 meters, requires some experience in high-altitude hiking. ⛅️Best Season: Mid-May to late June, peak rhododendron bloom, lush green meadows. Late September to mid-October, autumn colors paint the forests. ✔️Segmented Route: Starting from Shangri-La Yunji Luxury Wild Guesthouse. 1⃣ First segment from Lianhe Village → No.1 Pasture (3km, 1.5 hours) elevation gain from 3,150m to 3,450m, all on gravel and dirt roads, passing through pristine fir forests. 2⃣ Second segment from No.1 Pasture → Rhododendron Sea Pass (4km, 2.5 hours) elevation gain from 3,450m to 3,950m, steep gravel slopes plus alpine meadows. In May-June, the flower sea blankets the hillside. Trekking poles are recommended. 3⃣ Third segment from Rhododendron Pass → Laoyaoshan Main Peak (2km, 1.5 hours) elevation gain from 3,950m to 4,200m, terrain consists of exposed rock faces and weathered gravel, requiring use of hands and feet (anti-slip gloves recommended). From the main peak, you can look east to Haba Snow Mountain and west down to Pudacuo Valley. 4⃣ Fourth segment from Main Peak → Sea of Clouds Camp → Lianhe Village (6km, 3 hours) terrain is gentle sloping meadows and forest descent paths. Sea of Clouds Camp (elevation 3,800m) is available for camping (reservation required). 【🚗Transportation】 🚙 From Shangri-La City to Laoyaoshan hiking start point, Shangri-La Yunji Luxury Wild Guesthouse, about 2 hours. The first part is on National Highway 214, the latter part after exiting the highway is a cement mountain road with many bends, narrow and steep slopes. Drive cautiously; not recommended for beginners. 🅿️ Parking: Free parking at Shangri-La Yunji Luxury Wild Guesthouse parking lot. 【🎒Gear】 🚩 Waterproof hiking boots, windproof jacket and pants, trekking poles, headlamp, insulated water bottle, sunscreen (SPF50+), sunglasses. Glucose powder, ibuprofen (for headache relief). 📷 Photography Tips: 70-200mm telephoto lens (to capture distant snow mountains). 【🌧️Weather Warning】 During the rainy season, afternoon thunderstorms are common. Be sure to pass the pass area above 4,000 meters before 13:00. 【Nearby Route References】 Multi-day deep exploration: D1: Shangri-La → Laoyaoshan Shangri-La Yunji Luxury Wild Guesthouse D2: Laoyaoshan Main Peak → Pudacuo Bitahai Lake (hiking crossing requires a guide) D3: Pudacuo → Songzanlin Monastery

Laoyaoshan Day Tour departs every day|||Laoyaoshan, the back garden of Shangri-La, departs every day. Depart from Shangri-La and return, about 2.5 hours one way. The starting point of the hike is about 3,200 meters above sea level, and the highest altitude is about 3,800 meters. Haba Snow Mountain is on the left and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is on the right. There is grassland. Primitive forest and niche attractions with few people, a paradise on earth, depart at 8:30 every morning. Arrive at around 10:30 and return at around 3:00 pm. Return to Dukezong Ancient Town in Shangri-La at around 5:30. Both the elderly and children can go. As long as it is not high imitation. As long as you have legs. The mountain road is winding. Wish you a pleasant journey and have fun. Tashi Delek! Laoyaoshan

🚗 Transportation: Self-driving is recommended. Use a navigation app for directions. 🏨 Accommodation: 1. You can stay in nearby towns or villages, where there are some simple homestays and inns. 2. Bringing your own tent for camping is also a good choice, but be sure to choose a safe and suitable location. 🌟 Attractions: 1. Rich vegetation: Laoyaoshan has a variety of plant resources, making it a paradise for plant lovers. 2. Mountains and canyons: Enjoy the magnificent natural scenery and marvel at the wonders of nature. 💡 Things to do: 1. Hiking: Walk along the mountain road, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the scenery along the way. 2. Observe flora and fauna: Bring binoculars and a camera to capture precious moments. 🍱 Food recommendations: 1. Local farmhouse dishes: Taste fresh vegetables and authentic farmhouse flavors. 2. Specialty mountain products: Such as wild mushrooms, but make sure you can identify them correctly. 💡 Reminders: 1. The terrain of Laoyaoshan is complex, so plan your route in advance to avoid getting lost. 2. The temperature on the mountain varies greatly, so bring enough warm clothing. 3. Respect nature, do not damage the environment, and do not pick protected plants.

This route is not very high in altitude, with an average altitude of over 3,000 and a maximum altitude of 3,700. It is safer and very friendly to novices. The overall difficulty is not high, but you can see Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Haba Snow Mountain, Laoyao Mountain, Tiger Leaping Gorge and Jinsha River Grand Canyon. The scenery is amazing! Now you can see the golden mountain in the sun every day! 📍Starting point of the hike: Manxing Island Snow Sea Forest 【Hiking route】 There are two hiking routes, C1 and C2, which are divided into 2 days and you can stay in the camp for one night. 👉 Route C1: Start from the campsite ➡️End at Yanzi Cliff 🉑️A close look at the 13 peaks of Yulong Snow Mountain and the vertical drop of the Jinsha River in Tiger Leaping Gorge —————————— Hiking distance: 6-8 km (including taking photos along the way) Duration: 5-6 hours Climbing: 300 meters 👉 Route C2: Start from the campsite ➡️End at Habaxi Slope and Baicao Slope 🉑️See Laoyao Mountain, Haba Snow Mountain, and travel through the primeval forest —————————— Hiking distance: 13-15 km (including taking photos along the way) Duration: 7-8 hours Climb: 400m ⚠️It is recommended to hike C2 on the first day and C1 on the second day C2 is a long route. After hiking on the first day, you can stay in the camp and rest. On the second day, you can hike C1. The route is short and you can come back early, which is convenient for going home. 【Itinerary】 Depart from Lijiang and navigate directly to Manxing Island Snow Sea Forest ⚠️New drivers should not drive by themselves, as the mountain roads are narrow and steep, and it is difficult to miss other cars. They also provide a round trip through bus, departing from Lijiang Ancient Town, round trip 100/person. 【Camp environment】 The camp is on the top of the mountain, where you can see the Thirteen Peaks of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, the Jinsha River Grand Canyon, and the Haba Snow Mountain. Now you can see the sunset over Jinshan Mountain at around 6pm every night, it’s very beautiful! 【Dressing Guide】 For daytime hiking, bring a quick-drying wool base layer, a soft shell jacket, and long pants. Bring a light down jacket in your backpack to keep warm in case you get down the mountain too late. Also bring trekking poles and knee pads. 🌟The ultraviolet rays on the plateau are strong, so take good sun protection! Sunscreen, hat, gloves, sunglasses. The accommodation is the Starry Sky Bubble House, a 360-degree viewing room. But it's still a bit sunburned if you stay in the bubbles all day long.

Who would have thought that world-class beauty is just a two-hour drive from Lijiang? This is Laoyao Mountain in Shangri-La, a fairy-tale secret place comparable to the Dolomites. The grass is green in summer and the flowers are everywhere in spring. This is also one of the rare places where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of both Yulong and Haba snow-capped mountains at the same time. A 3-4 hour leisurely hike through breathtaking alpine meadows, with towering snow-capped mountains in the distance and alpine rhododendrons, cattle, sheep and horses dotting the landscape. Yunnan, how many surprises do you have that I don’t know about? 🏞️Laoyao Mountain is a small secret place located in Tiger Leaping Gorge Town, Shangri-La City, Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province. It has beautiful scenery with alpine meadows, forests, snow-capped mountains and other landscapes. It is known as the "Altai of Shangri-La". 🏔️3700m above sea level, 600m climb, You can enjoy the whole view of Jinsha River. The scenery here is beautiful all year round, with alpine pastures, virgin forests, herds of cattle and sheep, and flowers and plants all over the mountains. It is a paradise for outdoor adventure and hiking enthusiasts. 📍Lijiang Ancient Town——Laoyao Mountain, It takes about 2.5 hours to reach the foot of the mountain; passing through Tiger Leaping Gorge on the way It also takes about 2.5 hours from Shangri-La; It takes about 1 hour to get there from Tiger Leaping Gorge Town. 🏃🏽‍➡️Hiking distance: 6.5km in total, This is a very suitable route for beginners. 🚗Transportation Charter 900💰, carpool 200💰 Depart from Lijiang Old Town Hotel - Go to Laoyao Mountain (Play) - Pass by Songzanlin Temple Observation Deck - Finally, send to Shangri-La Old Town Hotel 🍜Meals are not included, you need to take care of yourself in the morning🍢 Bring your own lunch or buy instant noodles on the hillside of Laoyao Mountain 8💰 It is recommended to bring some light fast food. It will be a bit tiring to carry a lot of things and hike up the hill on the plateau. 📷About Laoyaoshan's film output rate🎞️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Known as the Little Switzerland of Laoyao Mountain, the mountain is shrouded in mist Facing the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and backed by the Haba Snow Mountain Green grasslands and primeval forests, a pure time in the mountains There is no other consumption on Laoyao Mountain, and riding a horse or motorcycle requires an additional ➕ ☁️Weather June and July are the rainy seasons. Check the weather forecast before traveling and bring a raincoat. - 🏡Accommodation The accommodation is a homestay in Shangri-La. It is a 10-minute walk from the ancient city attractions. It is not expensive and very convenient for travel. Food and daily necessities are available - ⚠️🚮 The wind is strong and the weather is changeable on the mountain, and it rains from time to time. It is recommended to wear a jacket and a raincoat when playing, and prepare meals and water in advance. There is only a difference between being moved by Yunnan 0 times and 10,000 times. The brave ones enjoy the world first!

This should be the most stunning place I've visited this year! No wonder they say Laoya Mountain is the Dolomites of China! It's exhausting but really worth it! An undeveloped niche spot, a paradise for those seeking to escape⛰️ All the above are live photos taken with the original camera of 🍎12, no filters, and the original pictures are already so beautiful~ Hiking & self-driving guide will be added later.

One-day tour of Laoyao Mountain Today, I recommend a very rare hiking spot in Shangri-La: Laoyao Mountain, known as the Little Switzerland of Shangri-La, starts at 7:20 to pick up people from Lijiang or Shangri-La, and departs at 7:40 to reach Tiger Leaping Gorge Town in about 2 hours. Then it takes 50 minutes to go up the winding mountain road, about 16 kilometers, and you can reach Laoyao Mountain around 11 o'clock to start hiking... It is a continuous uphill from Tiger Leaping Gorge Town to Laoyao Mountain. If you drive by yourself, it is recommended to hire a car or find a designated driver. The road here is narrow and winding, and many of them are dangerous. The highest altitude of Laoyao Mountain is about 3,700 meters. Hiking from 3,300 meters to 3,700 meters is not difficult as long as you don't have altitude sickness. , Hiking time: The hike takes about two hours. You need to prepare a meal on the way. Since it is a small place with few people, there is no restaurant on it, only one hotel. You can basically return to Lijiang at 14:00 in the afternoon, or you can stay at Naxi Yage and start the two-day tour of Tiger Leaping Gorge, or stay at the Tea Horse Inn and start hiking the next day. The temperature is about 17 degrees. Keep warm and prepare clothes. Priority is given to chartering, and 4 people can carpool! Regarding the car model, there are two options: 5-seat SUV and 7-seat business car. The hike is not difficult, with alpine grass mats. As long as you don't have altitude sickness and have good legs, you'll be fine!

|I just went to Laoyao Mountain and shared my hiking tips. 📍Location: Shangri-La Laoyaoshan 🚕 Driving distance: 97 kilometers from Lijiang, 80 kilometers on the highway, 17 kilometers on the winding mountain road (requires driving skills), navigate to "Yunji Wild Luxury Hotel" directly to the starting point of the hike, there is a parking lot at the door 🚶🏻‍♂️Hiking: 3 kilometers round trip about 3 hours, starting point - Laoyaoshan Ranch - Internet celebrity tree (return the original route or go around to the ranch), the overall difficulty is not too high and suitable for beginners, Lijiang Shangri-La can be round-trip in one day ⛰️ Altitude: 3300-3700 🐛 Horse yellow: It is easy to appear on rainy days and near water sources. Be sure to wear long pants or bring snow covers to cover your ankles and shoes. The solution is to sprinkle salt on the place where it comes into contact with the skin, or burn the tail of the 🐛 with fire, and it will usually fall off naturally. 🐴 Horse riding: You can ride horses at the entrance, round trip 150, one way 75 🎫 Tickets: 20/person 💡Nearby hiking routes: carpooling is available🚗Go to Tiger Leaping Gorge, Lanhuaping Black Lake 👟 Equipment recommendations: raincoat, long sun-proof clothes and pants, quick-drying underwear, trekking poles, hiking shoes, salt/🔥 dispenser, water, meals on the way