Located in
Yunnan Province,
Southwest China, Wenhai village is accessible from Lijiang by foot,
horse or jeep over unpaved roads. Whichever method of transport you
choose, you'll be impressed by the magnificent views of Jade Dragon
Snow Mountain as you descend into the village.
Nestled in the valley at the foot of the mountain, this small
community of Naxi farmers, along with their goats, pigs, horses and
cows, lives on the lush green fields around the lake that fronts
their village. A lack of decent roads has kept Wenhai relatively
free from the tourist hordes, though in addition to the local Naxi
dialect some people do have a smattering of Mandarin. On the far
side of the settlement, you'll find Wenhai Eco-Lodge, owned and run
by 56 local families, each of whom has shares in the business and
contributes a percentage of profits to community development.
The project was started with help from the Nature Conservancy as
a way of supplementing villagers' income and encouraging residents
to view their natural environment as a resource, while at the same
time discouraging the common practice of cutting down trees in the
area to be sold as firewood. Many of the 'eco' aspects of the
project have since fallen into disrepair, but the lodge still
employs villagers, who work on a rotational basis-as long as there
are visitors.
Guests can go horseback riding, amble through the rustic
village, hike to Tiger Leaping Gorge or simply relax in the
courtyard of the guesthouse.
Hiking possibilities range from short afternoon ambles to ambitious
multi-day backpacking loops. A short hike around the lake, dodging
the grazing animals, offers splendid views of Jade Dragon Snow
Mountain.
A little further afield, you can walk to the neighboring village
of the Yi ethnic minority. For more ambitious hikes, the guesthouse
can arrange local guides (even English-speaking ones if you call
ahead).
Homestays with families in nearby villages can also be arranged
for multi-day treks to Tiger Leaping Gorge. The converted Wenhai
farmhouse offers rustic double beds, with electric blankets should
the temperature drop at night. There's a shared bathroom with
Western-style toilets off the courtyard, and hot water and laundry
facilities. Included in the price of a night's lodging are three
meals, prepared and served by local Naxi cooks. Beer, wine and
coffee are available for an extra charge. The cooks can also make a
packed lunch to take on your hike, but be warned, the main meals
are so good you might want to plan to be back in time.
There's one small shop in town, but if you need anything
specific, it would be best to take it with you.
For more information visit
www.northwestyunnan.com/wenhai_ecolodge.htm.
Guests must book ahead for lodging, transportation and
English-speaking guides.
(That's Shanghai December 27, 2007)
