The Legend of a Lake and People
On the border between Yunnan Province and Sichuan Province, there is a legendary lake which is an Arcadia in people's hearts (just like the isolated mountainous region of Greece that inspired ancient poets). A mysterious Chinese ethnic minority, the Mosuo people, live around the lake. The highest mountain by the lake is believed to be the Goddess of the Mosuo people. Lugu Lake is just like a magical mirror of "the Goddess" presenting incredible scenery as the seasons change.
In spring, azaleas dot the landscape with pink. In summer, white flowers blossom on the bright lake. In autumn, the golden grass sea turns the lake into an oil painting. In winter, the lake is a paradise for migratory gulls.
In this 3-day Lugu Lake tour, you will not only tour the scenic sites around the lake in a smart way, but also truly meet the matriarchal Mosuo people who still keep their authentic customs and lifestyle.
Tour 'Wow' Points
Stir the Golden Lake Water
Have a boat ride in the late afternoon on the "Bright Sea". When the dusk sunlight turns the lake water into a piece of golden silk, it is the best time to feel the gentleness and charm of Lugu Lake.
Enjoy an Exclusive View of Secret Princess Island
Follow a well-paved path, which is untrodden by most tourists, to have a relaxing hike and enjoy exclusive views of the lake.
Jump on a Magic Grass Trampoline
Explore the 'grass sea' by a wooden boat and find the floating meadow hidden in the grass. Walk and jump on it. Have childlike fun on this grassy 'magic carpet'.
Unveil the Authentic Culture of the Mosuo Minority
Visit a Mosuo home. Sit in the grandma's room and listen to stories of the matriarchal clan society.
Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family's best-rated service across trusted platforms.
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Yunnan tour with China Highlights
This visit to Yunnan was 10 days long with stops at Dali, Lijiang, Shangri-La and Kunming. We had 4 different guides - Dali with Daisy, Shangri-La with Peter, Lijiang with Li and Kunming with Doyle. Our guides, Daisy, Peter and Doyle was outstanding in their service. They were sensitive to our needs, flexible when we wanted any changes and did their job with enthusiasm and pride. The measure of how good a travel agency provides their service is not only in the planning of the itinerary but the follow through with good guiding service. Daisy, Peter and Doyle were exemplary in this regards! Well done, China Highlights for having guides of this quality. more
Mar 2025, Michel Siew Ngo... F
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Unforgettable 7 Day Travel Experience in Yunnan
Our 7 days Yunnan trip with China Highlights started at Kunming then took us all the way to Dali, Lijiang and Shangri La. Visiting Yunnan in December during winter time was interesting, less crowded and most importantly enable us to see Yunnan in a different landscape. A special mention to our fantastic guides, May (in Kunming) and Sunny (in Dali) and their respective drivers who were personable and shared a wealth of knowledge and insights of the places we visited. They spoke good English, helpful with our requests and ensured that we were comfortable and satisfied with our tours. We will not hesitate to use China Highlights again for our next trip to China! more
Jan 2025, Jess W
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Lijiang- family trip Dec 2024 Eleanor
My family really enjoyed our time with Eleanor in Lijiang. She was able to pass on a lot of knowledge about her city which made the trip lots more interesting! We enjoyed having her guide us to amazing places. She was really attentive when one of us were feeling sick at the top of the mountain and provided us all with adaquete preparation for the 4000km+ altitude ascension. more
Jan 2025, Nicole L
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Itinerary Quick Look
Here is a suggested itinerary. We are happy to customize a tour according to your interests.
We will drive you from Lijiang to Lugu Lake (206 km, 4 hours). On the way, you will enjoy the wonderful view of Jinsha River (Yangtze River). After arriving, you will have a panoramic view of the lake from a purpose-built platform. Have lunch in Daluoshui village, and then have a dreamy boat ride in the late afternoon near your hotel.
Starting from your hotel, you will explore the lake in your privately-driven car after breakfast. Stop at Lovers' Shore to take painting-like photos. Walk around Lige village, and take in the picture-postcard scenery of Lige Peninsula. Climb up to Luyuanya Cliff to see the prayer stones and prayer flags.
Enjoy a moderate hike on the mountainside after lunch with exclusive views of Nüshenwan ('Goddess Bay') and Princess Island. Then explore the "Grass Sea" by wooden boat and have fun on the floating meadow.
Relax to the Mosuo minority singing and dancing show in the evening.
Have a relaxing morning, and then we'll drive you back to Lijiang for your departure or the continuation of your tour. Do let us know below if you'd like any further assistance or tour customization or extension.
Hotel Selection
—the Icing on the Cake
Boutique hotels are recommended to enrich your travel experience.
Price includes:
- Private air-conditioned business car with big windows and ample space
- English speaking local guide
- Activities, hotels, and meals listed in the itinerary
- 24/7 helpline for while you are traveling
Tour code: lj-6