• Private vehicle with Pickup/Dropoff 
• Round-trip from Lijiang/Shangri-La or one-way transfer between Lijiang and Shangri-La 
• English-speaking private guide (option)
• Customized Itinerary

• Admission Fees
• Tips and gratuities
• Meals and beverages
• Personal expenses

This full-day private tour takes you deep into northern Yunnan's natural and cultural wonders. From high-altitude alpine lakes and vast grasslands to sacred Tibetan terraces and dramatic gorges, the journey is fully customizable. You'll travel in a private vehicle with flexible options for hiking, sightseeing, or cultural stops - and you can add an English-speaking guide for deeper insights.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & ACCESSIBILITY

Pudacuo  National Park

• Altitude: 3,500-3,700m. Some visitors may feel mild altitude sickness (headache, dizziness, shortness of breath). If you have heart, lung, or blood pressure conditions, consult your doctor before booking.
• Hiking Options: 
  • Shudu Lake - 3.3km boardwalk or 10-15min boat ride.
  • Bita Lake - 4.2 km trail or 15min boat ride.
• Terrain: mostly flat boardwalks, but walking feels harder at high altitude.
• Accessibility: well-maintained paths but not fully wheelchair accessible.

White Water Terrace

• Altitude: 3,000m, easier than Pudacuo.
• Walking: gentle paths with some steps.
• Cultural Etiquette: this is a sacred Tibetan site - avoid stepping onto terraces or disturbing prayer flags.

Tiger Leaping Gorge

• Altitude: 1,800-2,000m at viewing platforms.
• Walking: short paths and steps to viewpoints. Not suitable for those with mobility issues.
• Safety Note: rain may cause slippery paths or road restrictions; hikes are optional and limited to accessible sections.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

• Spring (Apr-Jun) - wildflowers in bloom across meadows.
• Summer (Jul-Aug) - lush grasslands; occasional afternoon rain.
• Autumn (Sep-Oct) - crisp skies, golden forest, colourful scenery - best season.
• Winter (Nov-Mar) - cold with snow possible; Pudacuo may close in heavy snow.

TRAVEL TIPS & RESTRICTIONS

• Book accommodations early, especially during peak seasons.
• Plan extra travel time in case of road delays or weather changes.
• Start early. Mornings offer clear skies and fewer visitors - ideal for photography.
• Inside Pudacuo: Eco-buses shuttle between scenic areas; private cars not permitted inside.
  • Eco-bus strategy - consider getting off one stop early for quieter, less crowded walks.
• Meals not included. Bring snacks, or stop at local Tibetan eateries along the way.
• Take it easy at altitude - rest often and enjoy the scenery. Walk slowly, hydrate often, avoid alcohol. Carry portable oxygen if prone to altitude sickness
• Do not swim in lakes or approach grazing animals. Trails can be slippery after rain.
• Respect Tibetan customs, especially at White Water Terrace (no climbing on terraces, no loud  noise near prayer flags).

This private journey balances alpine beauty, sacred Tibetan culture, and dramatic landscapes. From shimmering highland  lakes in Pudacuo to the holy terraces of Baishuitai and the roaring depths of Tiger Leaping Gorge, each stop offers its own unique perspective. With a freedom of a private tour, you can set your own pace - whether that's tranquil boardwalk strolls, cultural discovery, or simply soaking  in some of Yunnan's most breath-taking  views.

Since this route involves altitude changes and diverse weather, here’s a seasonal packing guide to keep travelers comfortable and prepared.

ESSENTIALS

• Cash & Small change - some remote areas have limited mobile payment access.
• Reusable water bottle - stay hydrated, especially at high altitude.
• Snacks or Light lunch - limited food options inside the park; energy bars, nuts, or fruit recommended.
• Passport & Entry tickets - required for park entry and ID verification at ticket counters.

CLOTHING & COMFORT

• Layered clothing - weather shifts quickly - bring a light down jacket, fleece, and rainproof jacket.
• Comfortable walking shoes - waterproof hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers are best for boardwalks and uneven trails.
• Hat, gloves, & scarf - even in summer, mornings and lake areas can be chilly.
• Sunscreen & sunglasses - high UV exposure at altitude -  apply SPF frequently.
• Cap or sunhat - for open grassland and terrace walks.
• Light raincoat or poncho - sudden showers are common, especially in summer.

  HEALTH & ALTITUDE READINESS

• Altitude sickness pills- if you're prone to altitude sickness, bring Diamox or doctor-recommended tablets.
• Motion sickness pills – For winding roads (especially Tiger Leaping Gorge).
• Pain relievers & first aid kit – Headaches can be common at high altitudes.
• Electrolyte powder – Prevent dehydration. Helpful for long walks and altitude recovery.
• Portable oxygen canister- can be purchased locally in Lijiang or Shangri-La.

 PRO TIP: Chewing gum or ginger candy can help reduce nausea from high-altitude roads.

PERSONAL & HYGIENE ITEMS

• Tissues or pocket toilet paper - public restrooms may have limited supplies.
• Moisturizer & lip balm - dry mountain air can chap skin quickly.
• Insect repellent - especially useful around Militang Grassland on warmer months.
• Mask or buff - protects from dust and strong winds during dry seasons.