7 Days GolfingTour
8 Days Group Tour
8 Days Yunnan Tour
7 Days Shangri La Hiking
11 Days Yunnan Tour
6 Days Yuanyang Terraces
11 Days Yunnan Tour
8 Days South Yunnan
7 Days Tea Tour
8 Days Muslim Tour
12 Days Self-Driving
4 Days Haba Climbing
Tiger Leaping Gorge
Stone Forest
Yunnan-Tibet
Hani Rice Terraces
Kunming
Lijiang
Shangri-la
Dali
XishuangBanna
Honghe
Kunming
Lijiang
Shangri-la
Yuanyang Rice Terraces
Nujiang
XishuangBanna
Spring City Golf
Snow Mountain Golf
Stone Mountain Golf
Via Ferrata (Feilada) Rock Climbing in Dongba Valley, Lijiang
Introduction to Via Ferrata at Dongba Valley (东巴谷)
Location and Geological Wonders
The Dongba Valley (东巴谷), also known as Luomieluo (裸美落) in the Naxi language, meaning “A Big Valley,” is located on the southern slope of Yulong Snow Mountain (玉龙雪山), approximately 15 kilometers from Lijiang Old Town (丽江古城). Situated in the heart of the popular Lijiang to Yulong Snow Mountain tourism route, this fault valley was formed during the Quaternary Glacial Movement around 2.6 million years ago. Spanning 9 kilometers in length, the canyon reaches depths of several dozen meters. The canyon’s steep cliffs display classic glacial erosion features, with exposed rock layers that chronicle the geological evolution of the Hengduan Mountains (横断山脉). This natural geological wonder offers visitors an unforgettable view.
Visitors can reach the scenic area entrance by bus (Route 101) or by driving to the Dongba Valley 2nd Parking Lot (东巴谷2号停车场), where free parking is available.
Ecological and Cultural Background
Biodiversity
The canyon boasts a complete vertical ecosystem, ranging from mixed coniferous and broadleaf forests at an altitude of 2,400 meters to alpine meadows at 3,000 meters. Over 200 species of plateau plants thrive here, and rare animals such as the Yunnan Golden Monkey (滇金丝猴) and the Blood Pheasant (血雉) are often spotted. From June to August, the canyon is alive with vibrant wildflowers, while in winter, stunning ice waterfalls create a magical atmosphere.
Dongba Culture Influence
The Luomeile Grand Canyon (裸美乐大峡谷), known to the Naxi people as Luomieluo (裸美落), meaning “A Big Valley,” is a sacred site for the Naxi ethnic group. On the canyon’s rock walls, visitors can admire thousand-year-old Dongba script (东巴文字) inscriptions, steeped in history and culture. During the climbing experience, there are prayer stations where visitors can hang Dongba wind chimes (东巴风铃) as a symbol of blessings. Every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday morning, cultural heritage practitioners demonstrate the art of writing Dongba pictographs (象形文字) at designated rest stops.
Core Experience of the Via Ferrata Rock Climbing
Route Features
The Via Ferrata (飞拉达) rock climbing route spans 480 meters at an altitude of 2,800 to 2,950 meters and includes 4 challenging segments:
40-meter Steel Bridge (15 meters above the ground)
25-meter Ladder (60° incline)
80-meter High Suspended Bridge (at the narrowest point of the canyon)
120-meter Zipline (reaching speeds of up to 60 km/h)
Professional Safety Measures
To ensure safety, the scenic area provides BEAL (Italy) imported safety equipment, including a double-lock system and emergency rappelling devices. Each group is accompanied by a certified instructor, who is trained in high-altitude first aid. A 30-minute safety briefing is provided before departure.
Practical Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
Scenic Best Times:
Rainy season (July to September) is perfect for witnessing active waterfalls.
Dry season (November to April) offers clear views of the snow-capped mountains.
Comfortable Visiting Hours:
To avoid the midday sun, it’s recommended to visit between 9:00-11:00 AM or 3:00-5:00 PM.
Packing List
Must-Bring Items:
Non-slip sports shoes
Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
Windproof jacket (wind speeds in the canyon can reach level 7)
Optional Items:
Sports camera mount
Non-slip gloves (the scenic area provides gloves, but bringing your own is more hygienic)
Recommended Itinerary
| Time of Day | Recommended Activity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Early Morning | Sunrise at Viewing Platform | Free, 7:00-7:30 AM |
| Morning | Via Ferrata Rock Climbing | Pre-booking required 1 day in advance |
| Afternoon | Dongba Culture Experience Center | Learn to write Dongba pictographs |
| Evening | Sunset Photography at Glass Skywalk | 6:20 PM, Golden Canyon view |
Safety Precautions
Altitude Sickness: Due to the high altitude, some visitors may experience headaches or symptoms of altitude sickness. It is recommended to bring oxygen supplements, such as Oxygen Tablets (奥默携氧片).
Sudden Weather Changes: In summer, strong winds may occur in the afternoon. If a weather warning is issued, it is essential to return to the platform immediately.
Equipment Check: Make sure to check the fit of your helmet straps and safety harness leg loops. There should be one finger of space between the strap and your body.
Restricted Groups: Individuals with high blood pressure, pregnant women, and those weighing over 120 kg are advised not to participate in the rock climbing activity.
The Via Ferrata (飞拉达) at Luomeile Grand Canyon (裸美乐大峡谷) offers an exhilarating adventure for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. Whether you’re looking for adrenaline-pumping climbs or a chance to experience the unique culture and stunning landscapes of the area, this destination promises a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
I am travelling on Lijiang in the third week of October and would like to find out more about the cost and pickup point for this program. What time does it start and end. we are staying at YueTu House悦途精品度假酒店
For your planned trip to Lijiang in the third week of October, where you intend to visit the Via Ferrata (Feilada) Rock Climbing in Dongba Valley in Lijiang, here’s the information:
1. Program Cost and Pickup Point
Cost: The price for the Via Ferrata Rock Climbing experience in Dongba Valley generally ranges between 400 to 600 RMB per person, depending on the level of difficulty and any additional services, such as guided support, equipment rentals, or group discounts. Prices may vary depending on the tour operator you choose.
Pickup Point: Since you’re staying at YueTu House (悦途精品度假酒店), many tour agencies offer pickup services from hotels in Lijiang, especially for outdoor activities like Via Ferrata. You can either book through your hotel, which may have partnerships with local tour companies, or directly contact a tour operator in advance. The pickup point would most likely be the entrance of your hotel.
2. Start and End Times
Start Time: Most Via Ferrata activities begin in the morning, typically around 8:30 to 9:00 AM, allowing for enough time to complete the climb and enjoy the experience.
End Time: The duration of the experience can vary based on the route chosen and your group’s pace, but generally, it lasts about 3-4 hours, including preparation time. You should expect to finish by 1:00 PM or 2:00 PM.
Additional Tips:
Advance Booking: It’s highly recommended to book your Via Ferrata experience in advance, especially during October, when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities, and there may be a higher demand.
What to Wear: Be sure to wear comfortable, athletic clothing and bring sturdy shoes suitable for climbing. Helmets and other safety equipment are typically provided by the tour operator.
Difficulty Levels: There are routes for various skill levels, so if you’re new to climbing, there will be beginner-friendly options. Make sure to confirm the level of difficulty before booking.