Hiking along Tiger Leaping Gorge

Getting There - After hitchhiking from Xiaqiaotou town to the starting point of the upper route I excitedly began the trail along Tiger Leaping Gorge on a beautiful sunny day. The notorious 28 bends, which is a steep climb along endless switchbacks, was a real challenge especially with my 8kg backpack. I had to really focus on breathing and keep pushing myself up. After scrambling up the steep incline and having a much-needed rest, I felt re-energized. I knew the worst was over. I picked up my pace afterwards and almost ran my way to Tea Horse Guesthouse. I didn’t see a single Chinese tourist on the trail that day but a bunch of foreigners and lots of local villagers grazing their animals. It took me another 3.5 hrs to complete the hike on the second day, and that was no doubt the essence of it all. It was just as challenging with all the rocky descents and narrow pathways next to the cliff, but in a much more fun way. With my heavy backpack I’d happily claim this as an achievement. I was a fulfilled person after the hike! #china #yunnan #wintergetaway #nationalpark #naturalwonders #hike #backpacking