CONTACT USMeet the Amazing Beauty of Yunnan
If you are planning your first Yunnan tour, Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, and Shangri-La should be on your list. Those cities offer a captivating blend of natural beauty, ancient cultures, and delicious cuisine.
In this 8-day classic Yunnan tour, you will go beyond the famous sights to see what few people see and to get a real encounter with the local culture and people. From notable limestone “forest” formations to one of the world’s deepest canyons, from ancient towns to snowy mountains, from colorful minority cultures to delicious food, you will be enchanted by Yunan’s breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultures.
Utilize our complimentary itinerary planning service to design your inaugural Yunnan adventure and embark on a memorable journey with your loved ones.
Suggested 8-Day Classic Yunnan Tour
| Day | Highlights |
|---|---|
| 1-2 Kunming | Naigu Stone Forest, Yuantong Tempe, Green Lake Park |
| 3 Dali | Erhai Lake Cycling, Xizhou Village, Dali Ancient Town |
| 4-5 Lijiang | Dayan Town, Black Dragon Pool, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Baisha Village |
| 6-8 Shangri-La | Tiger Leaping Gorge, Dukezong Ancient Town, Songzanlin Lamasery, Pudacuo National Park |
Kunming Dali Lijiang Shangri-La Tour Map
Tour ‘Wow’ Points
Lose the crowds in Naigu Stone Forest
Uncover the hidden gem of Naigu Stone Forest, a peaceful oasis with towering, jagged rock formations.
Witness the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
Soar above the clouds in a cable car and discover a winter wonderland at the snow-capped summit of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
Cycle around Erhai Lake
Have a bike ride alongside Erhai Lake. Feel the wind, enjoy the flowery meadows and rice fields, and see the clouds floating above the majestic Cangshan mountains.
Marvel at the Tiger Leaping Gorge
Check out the Jinsha River’s raw power in Tiger Leaping Gorge, carving through a narrow valley around a central rock formation beneath towering mountains.
China Highlights’ Special Discovery Experiences
Visit a shaman and learn about some mysterious Dongba characters.
Have a chat with a lama at Songzanlin Lamasery.
Learn to make Naxi pancakes in a local restaurant.
Suggested Itinerary
Here is a suggested itinerary. Feel free to let us know if you’d like to make any changes.
Day 1Kunming Arrival
Upon arrival in Kunming, you will be warmly welcomed by our dedicated guide and driver. A comfortable vehicle will be at your service to transport you to the hotel.
Day 2Kunming | Discover the Naigu Stone Forest
Breakfast & Lunch
Discover the Naigu Stone Forest, where towering, jagged rock formations create a dramatic and peaceful landscape. Escape the crowds and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this otherworldly environment, perfect for tranquility and adventure.
Explore the Yuantong Temple, a 1200-year-old Buddhist temple that offers a glimpse into the diverse cultural heritage of Yunnan Province.
Stroll through Green Lake Park, and you might stumble upon a vibrant local dance, where people in traditional dress create a cheerful atmosphere.
Day 3Kunming to Dali | Experience Authentic Dali
Breakfast & Lunch
Transfer to Kunming Railway Station for a bullet train to Dali, where a private guide and driver will greet you.
Visit the homes of the local people in Xizhou Village to discover the heart of Bai culture. Witness their daily life, learn about their traditions, and admire their exquisite clothing.
Experience the beauty of Erhai Lake on a leisurely bike ride along its western shore. Enjoy the gentle breeze, the vibrant colors of the flowers, and the stunning panorama of Cangshan Mountain.
Explore Dali Ancient Town‘s ancient temples, vibrant markets, and charming neighborhoods to immerse yourself in its rich history and culture.
Good to know:
The Three Pagodas stand tall in a triangular formation and are over 1,000 years old. They are ideal for landmark photography in your spare time.
Day 4Dali to Lijiang | Dayan Town Awaits
Breakfast & Lunch
Sit back and enjoy a convenient, private transfer from Dali to Lijiang with your guide and driver.
Discover the tranquility of Black Dragon Pool Park, a hidden gem in Lijiang. Stroll through the verdant gardens and find tranquility as you contemplate the majestic reflection of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
Discover Lijiang Ancient Town(Dayan Town), a UNESCO site inhabited by the Naxi minority. Stroll cobblestone streets lined with traditional houses, admire local crafts and climb Lion Hill for stunning views.
Day 5Lijiang | Explore Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
Breakfast & Lunch
Explore Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, the holy mountain of the Naxi people. Take a cable car to the Glacier Park at 4,680 meters, where you’ll find stunning scenery of forests, meadows and potentially snow-covered peaks.
Experience the Blue Moon Valley, a stunning Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Valley featuring an incredibly blue river winding its way through.
Learn to make Naxi baba, a traditional pancake, from a skilled Naxi woman at a local restaurant. Enjoy your homemade baba and other traditional dishes for a flavorful lunch.
Witness the magnificent Baisha Murals in Baisha Village. Over a thousand years old, these murals provide a fascinating journey through their beliefs.
Meet a Naxi shaman(Dongba) to explore their ancient spiritual practices and culture. Learn about the Naxi people’s connection to nature, language, and music.
Day 6Lijiang to Shangri-La | Tiger Leaping Gorge
Breakfast & Lunch
Enjoy a seamless and private transfer from Lijiang to Shangri-La.
Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the deepest and most spectacular canyons. The mighty Jinsha River rushes through this narrow valley, carving a path around a central rock formation.
Following lunch, we’ll ascend to Shangri-La, reaching an altitude of 3200 meters. Take some time to rest and adjust to the higher elevation at your hotel.
Day 7Shangri-La | Unveil the Hidden Gems
Breakfast & Lunch
Discover the grandeur of Songzanlin Lamasery, Yunnan’s largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery. Explore this architectural masterpiece, filled with Buddhist statues and cultural treasures, providing insight into Tibetan spirituality.
Interact with resident Tibetan monks in their dormitory. This unique opportunity offers a deeper understanding of their beliefs and practices, and you may even meet a living Buddha.
Explore the pristine beauty of Pudacuo National Park with its well-preserved ecosystem and stunning lakes – Bita Lake and Shudu Lake.
Day 8Shangri-La Departure
Breakfast
Have some free time to stroll through Dukezong Ancient Town before a private transfer to the airport or train station for your onward journey.
Hotel Selection
—the Icing on the Cake
Boutique 4-star hotels are recommended to enrich your travel experience.
