2-Day Mountain Adventure Itinerary: Exploring the Mysterious Ailao Mountains and Fuxian Lake

Day 1: Fuxian Lake Circular Hike + Modoushan Windmill Pasture Morning Luchong Scenic Area (Free) Hike along the Bijia Mountain Lakeside Boardwalk (2 hours) to enjoy panoramic views of Fuxian Lake from the summit. Optional activities: Take a boat to Gushan Island (Boat ticket: ¥80/person) or try wave-resisting fish angling by the lake (Fishing rod rental: ¥50/hour). Noon Lunch: Farmhouse restaurant in Luchong Village Must-try: Copper pot rice (with cured pork and potatoes), steamed wave-resisting fish. Afternoon Modoushan Windmill Pasture (Free) Walk through the flower fields along the 3km wooden boardwalk to witness the spectacular blend of sea of clouds and karst peaks. Transportation: Round-trip chartered car from Luchong costs about ¥80. Evening Accommodation: Fuxian Lake Hilton Curio Collection (Lake view room approx. ¥1200/night) or Luchong Village homestay (¥200/night) Dinner: Fresh lake cuisine at hotel/homestay (Recommended: Matsutake chicken stew). Day 2: Ailao Mountain National Park Adventure Morning Xujiaba Scenic Area of Ailao Mountain (Entry ¥50, Sightseeing bus ¥30) 4-hour hike through primitive forest trails to explore green peacock habitats and traverse alpine rhododendron forests (blooming March-May). Tips: Bring anti-slip hiking shoes, mosquito repellent. Guide fee about ¥100/group (can share with others). Noon Lunch: Yi ethnic guesthouse at mountain base Must-try: Copper pot potato rice, roasted black goat leg. Afternoon Ancient Tea-Horse Road Ruins (Free) 2-hour hike along remaining sections of the historic salt-caravan trail, visiting former Ailao Mountain relay stations. Evening Accommodation: Yunling Inn at Ailao Mountain (Mountain view room ¥300/night including breakfast) Dinner: Local chicken hotpot with wild mushrooms at the inn. Important Notes: 1. Hiking gear: Prepare windproof jackets and trekking poles for Ailao Mountain. Bring mosquito repellent in summer, windproof/warm clothing in winter. 2. Vehicle choice: Some Ailao Mountain roads are unpaved - recommend 4WD vehicles (specify when chartering).