10 Things to Do in Yunnan Golden Monkey National Nature Reserve, China
Nestled in the heart of China’s Yunnan Province, the Yunnan Golden Monkey National Nature Reserve is one of the most spectacular and diverse wildlife conservation areas in the world. The reserve is home to an array of rare and endangered species, including the iconic Golden Snub-nosed Monkey, and provides visitors with a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and majesty of nature up close. Here are 10 of the best things to do in the reserve to make the most of your visit.
1. Spot Rare Golden Snub-nosed Monkeys
The Yunnan Golden Monkey National Nature Reserve is home to one of the most iconic species of primate in the world – the Golden Snub-nosed Monkey. These monkeys are easily recognizable by their distinctive golden fur and black faces, and can often be seen playing in the treetops or foraging for food.
2. Take a Hike Through the Reserve
The Yunnan Golden Monkey National Nature Reserve is a hiker’s paradise, with a network of trails that wind through lush forests, rolling hills, and stunning mountain vistas. Hiking is a great way to explore the area and get up close to the incredible wildlife that calls the reserve home.
3. Visit the Ancient Tea Horse Road
The Yunnan Golden Monkey National Nature Reserve is located along the ancient Tea Horse Road, an ancient trading route that connected China to Tibet and India. The route was once used to transport tea, horses, and other goods, and is now a popular tourist attraction.
4. Go Birdwatching
The Yunnan Golden Monkey National Nature Reserve is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 270 species of birds calling the reserve home. Birdwatchers can spot a variety of species, including the endangered Black-necked Crane, the vulnerable White-eared Pheasant, and the highly sought-after Chinese Grey Shrike.
5. Explore the Old Town of Lijiang
The nearby Old Town of Lijiang is a must-see for visitors to the Yunnan Golden Monkey National Nature Reserve. The old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to a variety of traditional Chinese buildings, cobbled streets, and a stunning array of temples and pagodas.
6. Visit the Tiger Leaping Gorge
The Tiger Leaping Gorge is one of the most spectacular natural sights in the Yunnan Golden Monkey National Nature Reserve. The gorge is located in the upper reaches of the Yangtze River and is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.
7. Go White-water Rafting
The Yunnan Golden Monkey National Nature Reserve is home to a number of rivers and streams that are perfect for white-water rafting. Experienced rafters can tackle the rapids of the Yangtze or the nearby Jinsha River, while beginners can enjoy a leisurely float down some of the calmer stretches of the reserve’s waterways.
8. See the Ancient Baisha Murals
The Baisha Murals are a series of ancient Buddhist frescoes that were painted in the late 15th century. The murals depict scenes from Buddhist mythology and can be found in the Baisha Village, which is located just outside of the reserve.
9. Explore the Shudu Lake
The Shudu Lake is a stunning alpine lake located in the heart of the Yunnan Golden Monkey National Nature Reserve. The lake is surrounded by lush forests and is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.
10. Go Horseback Riding
The Yunnan Golden Monkey National Nature Reserve is also home to a number of horseback riding trails, which provide visitors with an opportunity to explore the area on horseback. Horseback riding is a great way to experience the beauty of the reserve up close.
The Yunnan Golden Monkey National Nature Reserve is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking to spot rare Golden Snub-nosed Monkeys, explore the ancient Tea Horse Road, or go horseback riding, there’s something for everyone in the reserve.