From China 6-29-07
Since last updated, when I was in Kunming, we picked up our new folks, ate some fabulous Chinese food, and then went to Lijiang. I wish I had had more time to stay there because it is very atmospheric and pretty with old style dwellings, but very touristy. We couldn't see Jade Dragon Snow Mountain when we first drove in because of clouds, but next day on the drive to Tiger Leaping Gorge we got amazing views. I think it is the tallest mountain I have ever seen (around 15,000 feet as near as I can figure out, maybe more). When we got to Quiatao, which is the base for the Tiger Leaping Gorge trek, we picked up Margot, our guide, who was excellent (and hiking with her 10 week old puppy, who did most of the hike without being carried!) We headed up the Gorge. I am pleased to say I did not wuss out and made it up some tough sections of the gorge close to the front of the group. The views were absolutely incredible. This is supposedly the deepest gorge in the world (apparently the Chinese government would not confirm that because they plan to dam and flood the gorge). I would believe it. We spent one night at a guest house in the gorge and got to see the moon rising over snow capped peaks - pictures coming - suffice to say I just about had a religious experience. The next day we hiked down towards the river and had good views of the rapids. I did not climb down to them but I will try to get some pictures from the people who did - it's apparently pretty wild. Now we are in Zhondian, which is about 250 km from Tibet and very tibetan influenced. We wandered around the markets this afternoon, where plenty of yak parts were on offer. I tried yak meat at lunch, and it was pretty tasty. I also tried butter tea and found it disgusting. So maybe I am not ready for the high Himalayas just yet :). More to come from Dali!!