TLG + Wumu and Baoshan ??

Question

Hi all,

We're working on an itinary including Gansu, Zhangjiajie and Yunnan. Mid October to the end of November.

I need information about the Naxi area and more especially the TLG area. We 'd love to do the 2-day-trek from Qiaotou to Tina's GH. However I've lately heard of the villages Wumu and Baoshan on the opposite side of the river. Quite a way by car though. Probably not as touristy as the TLG section but maybe not as pretty ... Some agencies praise those places. Do you have any experience regarding them ? Il so, would you recommend them after or before the TLG trek ?

Answer

The TLG area in the Naxi region near Lijiang is renowned for its traditional villages, terraced fields, and scenic treks, particularly the 2-day trek from Qiaotou to Tina's Guesthouse. This route offers an immersive experience in Naxi culture, local hospitality, and the stunning landscapes of the Yulong Snow Mountain foothills. It is relatively well-trodden but still retains a sense of authenticity and charm.

Regarding the villages of Wumu and Baoshan, these are located on the opposite side of the river from the main TLG trekking area. They are less touristy and quieter, which appeals to travelers seeking more off-the-beaten-path experiences. However, the scenery is generally considered less dramatic than the TLG route, and access requires a longer car journey, which can add travel time and logistical complexity to your itinerary.

Here are some considerations for including Wumu and Baoshan in your trek plan:

Scenery and experience: Wumu and Baoshan offer a glimpse into rural Naxi life with fewer tourists, but the landscape is flatter and less visually striking compared to the terraced fields and mountain views along the TLG trek.
Accessibility: Traveling to Wumu and Baoshan requires a car ride, which can take up several hours depending on road conditions. This makes them more suitable as a side trip or a day visit rather than the main trekking focus.
Cultural interaction: You are more likely to encounter local villagers in a daily-life setting, which is a bonus for cultural immersion, but facilities like guesthouses and dining options are more limited than in TLG.

Regarding the sequence of visits:

It is generally recommended to do the main TLG trek first, as it offers the iconic trekking experience and scenic highlights. Completing this trek gives a sense of achievement and sets a benchmark for the landscapes in the region.
After finishing the TLG trek, you could visit Wumu and Baoshan for a quieter, more reflective experience, without the pressure of hiking. This allows you to enjoy the rural Naxi culture and landscapes at a relaxed pace.
If your priority is trekking and photography, Wumu and Baoshan can be considered optional or supplementary, particularly if you have extra days to explore beyond the main trek.

In summary, the TLG trek should be the highlight of your Naxi itinerary due to its scenery and trekking appeal. Wumu and Baoshan are best visited after the TLG trek as a quieter cultural side trip, providing contrast and an authentic glimpse of Naxi village life without competing with the iconic landscapes.

TLG + Wumu and Baoshan ??

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