This 7-day loop from Lijiang takes in Tiger Leaping Gorge, the Shangri-La plains, Meili Snow Mountain, and the sacred peaks of Yading. It is one of the densest scenic drives in southwest China, and it is open to foreign tourists without any special border permit.
Can foreigners drive this route?
Yes. The whole loop stays in Yunnan and Sichuan provinces, away from closed border zones. You need a valid Chinese visa, your temporary driving permit, and a rental car - that is all.
7-day itinerary
Day 1: Lijiang pick up - Tiger Leaping Gorge - Shangri-La (3300m). Do not shower the first night.
Day 2: Songzanlin Monastery - Napa Lake. Acclimatise.
Day 3: Shangri-La - Baima Snow Mountain pass (4292m) - Feilaisi for Meili sunset.
Day 4: Sunrise at Meili - back through Shangri-La - Geza road to Daocheng (long drive, 8-10 hours).
Day 5: Daocheng - Yading visitor centre - stay in Yading village (3900m).
Day 6: Yading day hike: Luorong Pasture - Milk Lake - Five Color Lake (10km, 6-8 hours).
Day 7: Return via Xiangcheng to Shangri-La and Lijiang.
Road conditions
All paved. A sedan (VW Lavida) can do the whole loop. The Shangri-La-Daocheng section via Geza has some construction patches in summer but is passable. No off-road needed. Do not drive after dark - livestock on the road and no street lights.
Fuel and altitude
Fuel up in Lijiang, Shangri-La, Deqin and Daocheng. Altitude reaches 4700m at the Yading high passes. Bring ibuprofen, drink water, take it easy the first day at 3300m.
Cost estimate
Car rental (Lavida 260/day x 7 = 1820), fuel ~900, hotels ~2400, tickets ~400, food ~1000. Total about 7000-8000 RMB per car, split between 2-4 people.
We arrange airport pickup, the temporary driving permit, and can book hotels along the route. WeChat qxzj7557.