The Scenic Route--Tiger Leaping Gorge, Day 1

Hello Steemians!

Recently, I had the opportunity to travel to Yunnan which is China's southern most province and a famous travel destination both in China and abroad. Yunnan has an extremely diverse environment and ecology, boasting some of China's most scenic locations. One such location happens to be among China's "natural wonders", areas of nature so extraordinary or unique that they inspire awe in locals and visitors: Tiger Leaping Gorge

Tiger Leaping Gorge is located approximately 60 kilometers north of Lijiang, a historic city in Yunnan, and is one of the deepest river canyons in the world (3,790 meters from river to peak). It is also a part of the Three Parallel Rivers of Yunnan, which is a protected world heritage site. The river that runs through the canyon is the Jinsha, an upper tributary to the Yangtze River that flows all the way to south-east china and empties into the East China Sea.

This truly is a spectacular place. Everywhere you look you are surrounded by sheer peaks and clear blue skies. When the sun shines on the river, it looks like a silver serpent, slithering its way between the mountains only to disappear in the distance. The light here is experienced differently than most places, as the gorge is so deep that the sun is directly ahead for only a short period of time.

The hiking trails that flank the gorge follow the inlets of the mountains and are dotted with waterfalls made from melting snow that flow into the gorge. The canyon offers a diverse array of landscapes and spectacular views that never stop impressing you as you travel deeper and deeper into the park. It really is an amazing place.

I highly recommend visiting this spot if you ever get the chance, as it is one of my favorite places I have been in my far-flung travels. The local Naxi people, the food, the awe-inspiring landscapes, and fresh mountain air of 5,500 meters are but a few of the many reasons why you should visit Tiger Leaping Gorge.

There will be a day 2! I spent two days there.

Feel free to comment however you like! Whether it's a lightroom tip, a composition suggestion, or just what picture you like the most. Always love to hear feedback. :) Don't forget to click that upvote or follow button if you enjoy the content. Hope you all have a wonderful day! Go out there and get some good shots.