Tiger Leaping Gorge, Canyon in Yunnan Province, China

Tiger Leaping Gorge is a canyon on the Jinsha River between Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (5,596 m) and Haba Snow Mountain (5,396 m), with a maximum depth of about 3,790 m. The gorge runs roughly 15 km, split into Upper, Middle and Lower sections; its rocks are schist and marble, and the river narrows to about 25–30 m at Tiger Leaping Stone.

The name comes from an old story about a tiger that escaped hunters by jumping across the river at its narrowest point, where the water spans only about 25 meters. This legend is deeply rooted in local history and explains why this deep gorge carries such an unusual name.

The gorge's inhabitants are mainly Nakhi people living in a few small hamlets, who grow grain and now also earn from hiking tourism. The high trail is part of their everyday routes. The name comes from a legend that a hunted tiger crossed the river at its narrowest point, still 25 metres wide, using the rock in the middle, called Tiger Leaping Stone.

Two main hiking routes offer different experiences: the higher trail provides longer walks with expanded views, while the lower route allows shorter sections and direct views of the river. Guesthouses are spread along both paths, so you can plan your stay at your own pace without needing to rush.

Natural crystals are mined in and around the gorge, a detail most hikers never notice. The gorge also forms the administrative border: the right bank lies in Yulong Naxi Autonomous County of Lijiang City, the left bank in Shangri-La County of Dêqên Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture.