Arrival in Kunming

Kunming - Begin your Yunnan adventure in the vibrant landscapes of China’s most stunning province, starting in the regional capital, Kunming. An English-speaking tour guide and a professional driver will ensure a smooth transfer to your hotel, allowing ample time to unwind after your flight.

Dynamic Yunnan - Kunming offers a variety of theatrical experiences, including the highly acclaimed Dynamic Yunnan Show at Kunming’s Art Theatre. Here, dancers and musicians in exquisite costumes perform drum-inspired choreography, drawing from ethnic village dances and singing exotic songs that are sure to move you. (This show is not included in the tour price but can be arranged upon request.)

Kunming to Dali (High-speed train): Green Lake Park, Stone Forest

Kunming - Begin your day with a peaceful walk through Green Lake Park, an urban sanctuary where locals gather to dance, sing, and practice Tai Chi. The willow-lined paths and pavilions over the water create a tranquil setting, offering a glimpse into the city’s relaxed lifestyle.

Yunnan Stone Forest Geological Park - Next, explore the awe-inspiring Stone Forest (Shilin), a UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at the stunning landscape of towering limestone pillars, shaped by wind and water over 270 million years, forming a labyrinthine stone forest that feels otherworldly.

Kunming - In the afternoon, board a high-speed train for a scenic journey to Dali.

Dali - Upon arrival, step back in time as you enter Dali Ancient Town. Nestled at the base of the Cangshan Mountains, this historic town was once the capital of the Nanzhao and Dali kingdoms. Wander its cobblestone streets, admire the traditional Bai architecture with elegant grey-tiled roofs and ornate marble decorations, and enjoy the vibrant, bohemian atmosphere as the town comes alive in the evening.

Dali: Xizhou, Zhoucheng Village, Lake Erhai

Xizhou Town - In the morning, visit the ancient market town of Xizhou, just 19 kilometers north of Dali Old Town. Explore the morning market, where locals in traditional attire sell and buy local fruits, fresh meat, fragrant spices, livestock, and more. Experience a traditional Three Course Tea ceremony and see a beautiful example of Bai-style courtyard homes.

Zhoucheng Village - Then, head to Zhoucheng Village, the largest Bai village in the area, renowned for its tie-dyeing traditions. Walk through the village streets and observe local artisans crafting batik fabrics and mastering intricate tie-dye techniques. Visit a workshop to see the entire tie-dye process, from dyeing to drying.

Erhai Lake - The afternoon’s highlight is an Erhai Lake Cruise. Board a boat and sail on the vast, ear-shaped lake that gives the area its name. Enjoy unparalleled, panoramic views of the Cangshan Mountain Range and surrounding villages, offering a peaceful and majestic perspective on the region’s stunning natural beauty.

Dali to Lijiang: Black Dragon Pond Park, Dongba Museum, Lijiang Ancient Town

Black Dragon Pond Park - After breakfast, depart Dali for the next leg of your journey: the ancient city of Lijiang. Upon arrival, visit the picturesque Black Dragon Pond Park at the foot of Elephant Hill. This park is famous for its classic Chinese garden landscape, where you can capture the iconic photograph of the elegant Snow Dragon Bridge perfectly framing the distant, snow-capped peak of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain reflected in the tranquil pond.

Dongba Cultural Museum - Adjacent to the park is the Dongba Museum, a fascinating institution dedicated to the culture of the Naxi people. Learn about the world’s last living hieroglyphic writing system, the Dongba script, and explore exhibits on Naxi rituals, music, and history.

Old Town of Lijiang - China - As evening falls, explore the enchanting, maze-like alleyways of Lijiang Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Follow the gentle sound of flowing canals, cross centuries-old stone bridges, and discover a vibrant town filled with charming shops, cozy cafes, and the warm, welcoming spirit of the Naxi people.

Lijiang

Yulong (Jade Dragon) Mountain - Start your day early with an exhilarating journey to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Enjoy the breathtaking Impression show at Ganhaizi, nestled at the mountain’s base. Later, take a cable car to Spruce Meadow, a perfect spot for a leisurely walk where you can immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the landscape. Visit Blue Moon Valley, a stunning destination at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, known for its turquoise rivers and lakes. Stroll along scenic paths and enjoy the stunning views of the snow-capped peaks reflected in the crystal-clear waters.

Lijiang Mural in Baisha Village - After this majestic adventure, head to the quaint Baisha Village, where you’ll be captivated by the intricate Baisha murals, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Naxi minority.

Shuhe Ancient Town - Conclude your day with a visit to the picturesque Shuhe Old Town before returning to your hotel, allowing you to soak in the charm and tranquility of this ancient settlement.

Lijiang to Tiger Leaping Gorge to Shangri-La

Yangtze River First Bend - Shortly after breakfast, your driver will take you to the First Bend of the Yangtze River at Stone Drum Town (1.5 hours) to witness the impressive scenery, where the third longest river in the world makes a sudden V-turn. This area is part of the Three Parallel Rivers of Yunnan Protected Areas.

Tiger Leaping Gorge (Hutiao Xia) - Continue north to the Tiger Leaping Gorge, nestled deep below the snow-capped peaks of Haba Snow Mountain to the north and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain to the south. This is one of the world’s deepest gorges, 16 km long with a sheer 3900 meters between the wild waters of the Jinsha River and the top of the Haba Snow Mountains. The gorge’s inhabitants are primarily the indigenous Naxi people, who live in small hamlets. Your new tour guide will meet you here.

Dukezong Ancient Town - Later in the afternoon, continue to the legendary Tibetan city of Shangri-La, at an altitude of over 3,000 meters (10,000 feet). Experience the thrill as you journey to the far corner of the world up to the Tibetan plateau, populated by robed monks and wild plateau nomads. Notice the landscape and architecture gradually change, with barley fields and yaks scattered across the valleys and the year-round snow-capped mountains always towering above you. Arrive at your final destination: Dukezong Ancient Town, the ancient town center in Zhongdian city, where locals still preserve the old Tibetan way of life, crafting traditional jewelry made of silver or horn, instruments, earthenware, and daggers. Let this charming mountain town welcome you, and spend your free time wandering through the narrow alleys and cobbled winding lanes or relaxing from the day’s adventures.

Shangri-La

Sumtsaling Monastery - After a delicious Tibetan breakfast, your driver and guide will take you to the restored Songzanlin Monastery, also known as the ‘Little Potala Palace’ as this 17th-century monastery is modeled after the Potala Palace in Lhasa. It is the largest Tibetan monastery in Yunnan with over 700 monks actively practicing Tibetan Buddhism. The huge golden roof is a bright shining beacon that attracts Buddhists from all over Asia. There will also be an opportunity to visit a local family and experience the real life of a herdsman in the high steppe.

Potatso National Park - Afterwards, embark on an exhilarating exploration of Potatso National Park, where you’ll be immersed in the stunning natural beauty and ecological diversity of this remarkable conservation area.

Departure from Shangri-La

Shangri-La County - This is your last chance to enjoy a cowboy’s breakfast of prime yak steak and fried mushrooms before your driver takes you to Shangri-La airport. It’s also your final opportunity to shop for gifts for loved ones back home, as Shangri-La boasts some of the best markets in Yunnan. Here, you can stock up on prayer flags, thangkas, and Khampa Cowboy Hats for your colleagues, friends, and family. We hope you had a wonderful time during your Yunnan trip and look forward to welcoming you again!

• Supplement for the meals for the tour guide and driver
• Entrance tickets to the attractions listed in the itinerary
• 2 half-liter bottles of drinking water per day
• Private transportation and transfers, including pick-up and drop-off
• Experienced and licensed local English-speaking tour guide
• 7-night 4-star accommodation shared twin room with breakfast
• High-speed train from Kunming to Dali (2nd class seat)
• 24/7 English speaking customer service
• All taxes, fees and handling charges
• Breakfast
• Supplements for meals and accommodation for driver and tour guide

• Flight tickets
• Chinese visa
• Meals not listed in the program
• Dynamic Yunnan Show tickets
• Personal travel insurance
• Personal expenses
• Tips for tour guide and driver (not requested, but highly appreciated)
• Single room supplement if the guest requests a private room in the hotel
• Additional days caused by unexpected nature disasters. e.g. landslides etc.
• Possible surcharges for upgrades from standard twin-bed rooms to double-bed rooms
• Anything not listed in inclusions

Uncover a unique side of China, away from the bustling factories and major cities. Delve into a hidden realm of untamed mountains and rich history. Journey along the ancient Tea Horse Road, over a thousand years old, to historic trading centers such as the Dali Kingdom and Xizhou. Wander through the charming lanes of Lijiang Old Town, marvel at the breathtaking Tiger Leaping Gorge where the Yangtze River roars, and be inspired by the mythical Tibetan scenery of Shangri-La.

• IMPORTANT NOTE: to register your tour legally with the local authorities, we need your passport information as mentioned below. We will contact you by message via TripAdvisor. Until we received your reply with your passport information, we will NOT start arranging your tour. We are not responsible if we cannot arrange a tour guide, private transportation or hotel due to the customer’s own late reply or lack thereof (for example during national holidays or high season). Thank you for your understanding.
• Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
• At time of booking full name as mentioned in passport, passport number, birthday, expiry date, gender and country are required for all participants.
• The daily working time for driver and tour guide during this tour is maximum 10 hours per day. Overtime working hours will be charged extra.
• Children must be accompanied by an adult
• Tipping drivers and tour guides is custom in China. We recommend giving 2 – 3 USD per person per day to the driver and 4 – 5 USD per person per day to your tour guide.
• Full payment will be collected in advance, including all admission fees, fuel, and equipment rental.

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.