Spanning five latitudinal zones, a 5,000-meter vertical rise, and five distinct climate types, Gaoligong is the only place on Earth where you can witness a complete, uninterrupted transition from humid tropical rainforest to temperate forest. To the north, Gaoligong joins the Tibetan Plateau; to the south, it reaches toward the Indochinese Peninsula. Moist air from the Indian Ocean rides the mountains upward, shaping a hidden realm—home to countless legendary species of plants and animals. In spring, the world’s largest rhododendron species, the tree rhododendron, bursts into bloom. Skywalker hoolock gibbons call across the ridgelines, and sunbirds flicker through the flowers, beating wings that flash with metallic light. In summer, hornbills bustle between fig trees to raise their chicks. Orchid canopies and staghorn ferns turn the forest into a floating garden at its finest. At Baihualing, one of China’s “five-star” birdwatching hotspots, the season reaches its liveliest peak. In autumn, Tengchong turns gold with ginkgo leaves—perfect for a soothing hot-spring escape. Walk the ancient Tea Horse Road and feel the vegetation change as you cross different plant communities. In winter, watch giant squirrels glide between trees, and don’t miss the nighttime wildlife walk—an experience worthy of a living natural history museum. China’s treasure house of biodiversity unfolds before your eyes, slowly and magnificently. Go to Gaoligong—become part of the forest. Go to Gaoligong—become part of the Nujiang. Go to Gaoligong—become part of nature.

Route Type Natural Museum Habitat & Life

Route Code0C9-A75-A33-