9-Day Motorcycle Riding Itinerary on the Luya Route – Expedition to the Legendary Rock’s Trail in Shangri-La

What is the Luya Route?

The Luya Route is not an official name, so you won’t find it on map navigation apps. Often referred to as the “Rock’s Trail,” this route connects the culturally rich and scenic Lugu Lake with the renowned beauty of Daocheng Yading. Traditionally, traveling from Yading to Lugu Lake requires crossing the Greater and Lesser Snow Mountains to Shangri-La, followed by a 200-kilometer drive to Lugu Lake. However, by taking the Luyaxiang Route, the distance is reduced from over 800 kilometers to just 280 kilometers, and travel time is cut from 16 hours to 8 hours. This route traverses several grand canyons and pristine forests, offering breathtaking views. However, its challenging terrain, featuring gravel roads, landslide areas, cliffside paths, and water crossings, has earned the Luyaxiang Route a reputation as one of the top off-road trails. Successfully completing this journey is a badge of honor, with those who do so hailed as “legends” in the off-road community.

One of China’s Top Ten Off-Road Routes: The Luya Route

Iron Chain Bridge on the Luya Route

What is Daocheng Yading?

Daocheng Yading was first introduced to the world by Joseph Rock, an explorer, writer, and photographer for National Geographic. From 1922, he spent over 20 years exploring the southwestern provinces of China. Rock was the first to capture and share the stunning beauty of Daocheng Yading with the world using color film, including iconic shots like the one of Mount Yangmaiyong from the Luorong Pasture.

Rock’s work inspired the writer James Hilton, whose classic novel Lost Horizon introduced the mythical paradise of “Shangri-La” to a global audience. In the 1990s, nearly 70 years later, only a few hundred visitors ventured to Yading each year, often hiring local guides and horses to navigate the treacherous mountain paths. During this time, Chinese photographer Lü Linglong also visited Yading and captured an even more breathtaking image from the same spot where Rock had once stood.

Today, Yading is a well-known destination among outdoor enthusiasts and photographers alike. Capturing the image of Mount Yangmaiyong from Luorong Pasture has become a must-do, echoing what Rock saw nearly a century ago: “An incomparable pyramid, Yangmaiyong standing proudly beneath the heavens.” Rock described it as “the most beautiful snow mountain” he had ever seen. The majestic peaks, hidden abysses, roaring rivers, and the mysterious tribes living in the mountain valleys—all of these elements create an irresistible allure.

Detailed 9-Day, 8-Ride Cycling Itinerary for the Luya Route

Day 1: Chengdu to Kangding (300 km)  

• Erlang Mountain (elevation 3,437 m)
• Luding Bridge
• the bustling town of Kangding

Day 2: Kangding to Litang (270 km)

• Zheduo Mountain (elevation 4,298 m)
• the “18 Bends of the Heavenly Road”
• Kamba Man Village
• the Sky City
• Letong Ancient Town
• Changqingchunke’er Monastery

Day 3: Litang to Shangri-La Town (230 km)

• Rabbit Mountain (elevation 4,696 m)
• Chitu River Valley
• Gongga Langjiling Monastery

Day 4: Yading Scenic Area Day Tour (10 km)  

• The Three Holy Mountains (elevations: Xiannairi 5,998.5 m, Yangmaiyong 6,033 m, and Xianuoduoji 5,951.3 m)
• Milk Lake
• Pearl Lake
• Luorong Pasture

Day 5: Luyaxiang Route Crossing (280 km)

• Eya Village
• the Luyaxiang Route crossing

Day 6: Lugu Lake Loop (80 km)

• Lige Peninsula
• Gemu Goddess Mountain

Day 7: Lugu Lake to Dechang (286 km)

• Yalong River Ferry
• the Dalu Trough Primitive Forest

Day 8: Dechang to Hanyuan (299 km)

• Qionghai Lake in Xichang
• Lingshan Temple
• Xiaoxiangling Mountain
• Dadu River Valley

Day 9: Hanyuan to Chengdu (260 km)

• Qingxi Ancient Town
• Niba Mountain (elevation 3,300 m)

Main Attractions During the Cycling Journey

Litang  

Known as the “Sky City,” Litang is not only the heart of the G318 Sichuan-Tibet route but also a place where Tibetan culture and natural beauty merge perfectly.

Daocheng Yading

Often referred to as “The Last Shangri-La,” “Shangri-La Wonderland,” and “The Last Pure Land on the Blue Planet,” Daocheng Yading attracts countless visitors with its unique alpine valleys and rich Tibetan culture. Here, you can immerse yourself in Tibetan villages, experience local customs, and deeply appreciate the vibrant Tibetan culture.

Dalu Trough Primitive Forest  

The Dalu Trough Primitive Forest is a place of mystery and beauty. Whether you’re looking to connect with nature, enjoy pristine landscapes, or explore the wonders of flora and fauna, this is an ideal destination.

Lugu Lake  

Riding along the shores of Lugu Lake, your motorcycle becomes wings of freedom. The gentle breeze guides you through the stunning scenery of the lake and mountains. The crystal-clear water reflects the blue sky and white clouds, while the surrounding mountains, lush and green, make you feel as if you’re part of a breathtaking painting.

Inclusions

• Accommodation Booking  
• 8 nights in local high-standard hotel standard rooms (twin rooms shared by 2 people; participants can choose their roommates or be assigned by the tour leader. A single room supplement is required for solo accommodation).
• Meal Arrangements
• A mix of regular meals and local specialty dishes along the route.
• Ticket Booking
• Ferry tickets for motorcycles and support vehicles.
• Support Services
• The deluxe group includes a support vehicle with beverage and snack supplies. The luxury group does not include a support vehicle but carries essential emergency items.

Exclusions

• Personal Expenses
• All drinks, entertainment, and other personal expenses during the trip.
• Vehicle Expenses
• Fuel, tolls, and other expenses for personal or rented vehicles.
• Additional Costs
• Extra entrance fees and other services not included in the main itinerary.
• Vehicle Transport Fees
• Shipping and packing fees for picking up or returning vehicles in different locations.
• Optional Services
• Any additional optional services during the trip.
• (Note: All costs are subject to the terms and conditions of the contract.)