3 Days Yunnan Lijiang Lugu Lake Tour with Mosuo Ethnic People Discovery

Tour Overview

Lugu Lake, located at the junction of Yunnan and Sichuan provinces, is a serene, breathtaking destination that offers a blend of cultural richness and natural beauty. Known as the...

Length of Travel: 3 Day

Destinations of Tour: Lijiang-Lugu Lake-Lijiang

Departure City: Lugu Lake

Price of Tour: Request

Type of Tour:

Features of Tour:

More Map & Picture

Lugu Lake, located at the junction of Yunnan and Sichuan provinces, is a serene, breathtaking destination that offers a blend of cultural richness and natural beauty. Known as the “Kingdom of Women,” this is a place where women have held the cultural and societal reins for centuries, guiding the unique matriarchal society of the Mosuo people. This 3-day tour from Lijiang is designed to immerse you in the traditions of the Mosuo people, explore the natural wonders of Lugu Lake, and experience its stunning sunrises, sunsets, and serene landscapes.

What You’ll Experience:

Mosuo Culture & “Walking Marriage”: Learn about the fascinating Mosuo matriarchal society and the “walking marriage” tradition, where relationships are defined by free choice and freedom.

Lugu Lake: A pristine, picturesque lake surrounded by mountains, providing opportunities for serene boat rides and stunning panoramic views.

Historical Monuments & Spiritual Sites: Visit the historical Zhamei Monastery and the sacred Luyuanya Cliff, both offering not only stunning views but deep cultural significance.

Unique Flora and Fauna: Explore the “Grass Sea” by boat and witness a rich diversity of plants and wildlife, often untouched by modernity.

Cultural Immersion: Participate in Mosuo dances and songs, witness their customs, and discover how they have maintained a centuries-old way of life.

Tour Highlights

Highlight 1: Discovering the Mosuo People & “Walking Marriage”

The Mosuo people live by the practice of “walking marriage,” where a woman may choose a partner and live independently, and the man visits her at night, but does not live with her. The children of the relationship belong to the mother’s family, and the family line is passed through the female side. This tradition provides a fascinating insight into gender roles, relationships, and familial structures. During the tour, you’ll visit local Mosuo villages to learn about their lifestyle, culture, and customs.

Highlight 2: Stunning Lugu Lake

Lugu Lake is one of the most beautiful and serene lakes in China. The lake is known for its clear, turquoise waters surrounded by forested hills and snow-capped mountains. It’s a perfect spot for photography, with its changing colors at different times of the day— from vibrant sunrises over the eastern shore to fiery sunsets at Goddess Bay.

Highlight 3: Panoramic Views & Scenic Spots

Luyuanya Cliff: After a short climb, you’ll be rewarded with a panoramic view of Lugu Lake, with the distant mountains and surrounding landscape. The cliff is also home to colorful prayer flags fluttering in the breeze, adding a spiritual element to the experience.

Grass Sea Boat Ride: Explore the “Grass Sea” on a traditional wooden boat. This floating meadow is an ecosystem unto itself, full of birds, insects, and wild plants. It offers a peaceful and immersive experience that connects you to nature.

Highlight 4: Mosuo Bonfire Party

The Mosuo people’s social gatherings often involve singing, dancing, and storytelling around a bonfire. During your trip, you’ll have the chance to join a lively Mosuo Bonfire Party, where you can learn local dances, sing with the villagers, and enjoy the warmth and camaraderie of this vibrant community.

Highlight 5: Zhamei Monastery

Zhamei Monastery, founded in 1556, is the largest Tibetan Buddhist Gelug sect monastery in the region. The monastery is not only a spiritual center for the Mosuo and Pumi people but also a treasure trove of history and culture. Here, you can witness Tibetan Buddhist rituals, explore the monastery’s tranquil surroundings, and learn about the spiritual traditions of this region.

Itinerary at a Glance

Day 1: Lijiang to Lugu Lake – Panoramic Views, Luoshui Village, Canoeing, Beautiful Sunset

Day 2: Full Day at Lugu Lake – Sunrise at Lige Village, Zhamei Monastery, Luyuanya Cliff, Grass Sea, Mosuo Bonfire Party

Day 3: Lugu Lake to Lijiang – Mosuo Culture Museum, Pumi Village Visit

Day-by-Day Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Lijiang – Lugu Lake | Panoramic View, Luoshui Village, Canoeing, Beautiful Sunset

Morning:

• Departure from Lijiang: Begin your journey by car from Lijiang to Lugu Lake, a distance of 206 km (around 4 hours). During this scenic drive, you’ll pass through the rugged mountainous terrain and the beautiful Jinsha River, part of the Yangtze River. The landscape here is wild and unspoiled, with villages of the Yi ethnic group scattered along the way.

• First Views of Lugu Lake: Upon arrival, head straight to the Lugu Lake viewpoint. Here, you’ll be able to take in the first breathtaking views of the lake, surrounded by lush hills and mountains. This location offers the perfect opportunity for photos.

Afternoon:

• Hotel Check-in: After checking into your hotel around the lake, you’ll have some time to rest and freshen up.

• Canoeing on Lugu Lake: After lunch, enjoy a relaxing canoe ride on the tranquil waters of Lugu Lake. The boat ride allows you to witness the clear waters reflecting the majestic mountain range that surrounds the lake.

• Optional Activity – Boat Trip to Liwubi Island: If you wish, you can take a boat to Liwubi Island. This mystical island is home to a Lamaist monastery, and visitors often walk around the area for peaceful reflection. You’ll be able to explore the monastery and learn about its spiritual significance.

Evening:

• Stroll Along Luoshui Village: Walk along the shores of Luoshui Village to experience the peaceful vibe of the area. The village is surrounded by lush greenery, and the scenery is calm and serene.

• Sunset Viewing: As the sun begins to set, head to a viewpoint in Luoshui Village for an unforgettable sunset. The colors of the sky reflect on the surface of the lake, creating a stunning visual spectacle.

Accommodation: Stay at a cozy lakeside hotel where you can unwind and enjoy the views of the lake.

Dining: No formal meal provided, but the local restaurants offer a variety of Mosuo dishes, such as yak meat, wild mushrooms, and local fish.

Day 2: Lugu Lake Tour | Sunrise, Lige Village, Zhamei Monastery, Luyuanya Cliff, Grass Sea, Goddess Bay, Mosuo Bonfire Party

Morning:

• Sunrise at Lige Village: Wake up early and make your way to Lige Village to witness one of the most beautiful sunrises in China. The early morning light casts a soft glow over the lake, creating a peaceful atmosphere perfect for photography.

• Breakfast and Zhamei Monastery: After sunrise, enjoy breakfast before heading to Zhamei Monastery. The monastery, established in 1556, is a key religious site for Tibetan Buddhists and offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Mid-Morning:

• Visit the Mosuo Market: On your way to the monastery, stop by the Mosuo Market in Yongning Town, where you can buy handmade crafts, clothes, and local produce. The market is a vibrant reflection of the Mosuo people’s traditional way of life.

Afternoon:

• Climb Luyuanya Cliff: After visiting the monastery, take a short hike up to Luyuanya Cliff for sweeping views of Lugu Lake. The cliff offers one of the best viewpoints in the region.

• Grass Sea Boat Ride: Afterward, enjoy a relaxing boat ride across the “Grass Sea,” a floating meadow filled with wild grasses and aquatic plants. It’s an incredibly peaceful and magical experience to drift across this natural wonder.

Evening:

• Goddess Bay Sunset: In the late afternoon, head to Goddess Bay for another stunning sunset view. The water reflects the colors of the sky, creating a serene and mesmerizing atmosphere.

• Mosuo Bonfire Party: In the evening, join the Mosuo people around a bonfire for a lively cultural celebration. You’ll have the opportunity to dance, sing, and participate in the traditional festivities.

Accommodation: Overnight in a lakeside hotel near Lugu Lake.

Dining: Enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with the evening meal being a part of the bonfire party.

Day 3: Lugu Lake to Lijiang | Mosuo Culture Museum, Pumi Village Visit

Morning:

• Visit Mosuo Culture Museum: After breakfast, head to the Mosuo Culture Museum, where you’ll learn in-depth about the history, customs, and traditions of the Mosuo people. The museum provides insights into their unique family structures, gender roles, and the famed “walking marriage.”

• Leisure Walk Around the Lake: Before departure, take a final stroll around Lugu Lake, soaking in the peaceful beauty of the area.

Afternoon:

• Pumi Village Visit: On your way back to Lijiang, stop by a Pumi ethnic village, where you’ll get a glimpse into the Pumi people’s distinct culture. Learn about their nomadic roots, traditional customs, and family life.

• Return to Lijiang: Arrive in Lijiang in the late afternoon, where you can relax and explore the Ancient Town at your leisure.

Dining: Breakfast before departure; lunch during the Pumi village visit.

Service Included:

• Admission fees for all of the sightseeing spots listed in the itinerary;
• Meals as listed in the itinerary;
• Hotels as listed in the itinerary;
• Private English-speaking tour guide;
• Private vehicle for transfers & sightseeing with skilled driver;
• Service charge & government taxes;
• Luggage transfers between airports and hotels.

Service Excluded:

• Any arrival and departure international airfares or train tickets;
• Chinese visa fees;
• Excess baggage charged by Airlines;
• Single room supplement;
• Tips to guides and drivers;
• Personal expenses and gratuities to service staff;
• Personal travel accident insurance;
• All optional programs.