Small-group high-altitude day hike
About this Journey
Abuji Lake sits at approximately 4,200 metres beneath Tianbao Snow Mountain, in the high country around Shangri-La. The surrounding range brings together cliffs, valleys, forest and alpine pasture. Reaching the lake on foot makes those changes in terrain the heart of the day: wooded sections and streams give way to open meadows, rocky slopes and the mountain basin holding the water.
A lake reached through changing terrain
Starting near Xilianpen Pass, the route passes No. 2 Pasture and crosses mountain terrain before reaching Abuji Lake. The return journey follows the same route, revealing the landscape from a different direction. Approximately 19 km of walking spans elevations of around 3,700 to 4,360 metres, with the lake below the highest point of the route.
This is a demanding full day at high altitude, suited to fit walkers who are prepared for sustained effort and changing mountain weather. Carry a packed trail meal, water and appropriate layers, and keep to the trip leader's pace. The appeal is a complete mountain walk with a clear destination, combining the close detail of forest and streams with the open scale of Tianbao's alpine landscape.
Itinerary
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Xilianpen Pass, No. 2 Pasture and Abuji Lake
Shangri-La, Tianbao Snow Mountain and Abuji Lake
Meet in Shangri-La between 07:00 and 08:00, travel to Xilianpen Pass and hike with a light day pack through No. 2 Pasture to Abuji Lake.
The return walk is approximately 19 km at elevations from 3,700 to 4,360 m.
Retrace the route to the vehicle and return to Shangri-La in the afternoon.
Scenic Highlights
Scenic highlights
Alpine Meadow
Walk across wide alpine grasslands surrounded by mountains and open highland scenery.
Tianbao Snow Mountain Views
Enjoy impressive views of Tianbao Snow Mountain and the dramatic high-altitude scenery throughout the hike.
Abuji Lake
Abuji Lake sits beneath serrated rock walls at approximately 4,300 m.
Vehicle Reference
Vehicle reference
The vehicles below are common references. Final arrangements depend on guest count, luggage, road conditions, and local fleet availability.
5-seat
Comfort
7-seat
Business
12-15 seat
Comfort
12-15 seat
Luxury
Capacity notes
- 1. Passenger and luggage figures are comfort references. The final vehicle type is confirmed by our team before departure.
- 2. Please tell us in advance if you need a child seat, booster seat, or similar equipment. Any supplier fees are confirmed before booking.
- 3. Reducing one passenger usually creates room for one additional piece of luggage, subject to the actual trunk or cargo space.
Details
Details
What's included
Chartered transportation on the Shangri-La-Xilianpen Pass route
Tour leader throughout the activity
Complimentary outdoor accident insurance with stated coverage up to RMB 800,000
What's excluded
Meals and drinks
Personal hiking equipment
Personal expenses and costs caused by early withdrawal or rescue
Policy
After a booking is confirmed, cancellation charges are calculated according to the time before the scheduled tour start date. Final terms are confirmed before payment.
Reference cancellation rules
30 days or more before departure: full refund.
15-29 days before departure: 80% refund.
10-14 days before departure: 60% refund.
7-10 days before departure: 40% refund.
5-7 days before departure: 20% refund.
From the assembly day: no refund.
Important notes
Bring quick-drying layers, warm clothing, hiking shoes, a 20 L backpack, raincoat, headlamp and trekking poles.
Outdoor activities involve risk; follow the leader and Leave No Trace principles.
Cancellation: 30+ days before departure, full refund; 15-29 days, 80% refund; 10-14 days, 60%; 7-10 days, 40%; 5-7 days, 20%; from assembly day, no refund.
Why Travel With Us
Why us
Yunnan-based planning with first-hand route knowledge and local supplier coordination.
Private, flexible arrangements shaped around your pace, interests, and travel dates.
Clear communication before booking, including accommodation style, guide availability, vehicle reference, and practical travel notes.
English-speaking support can be arranged on request, with final details confirmed before you reserve.