Kunming: Stone Forest and Jiuxiang Cave - Dali (L)

Yunnan Stone Forest Geological Park - Meet the private guide in the hotel’s lobby in Kunming and head directly to Yunnan Stone Forest Geological Park, which is about a 1.5-hour drive. During the journey, the tour guide will share fascinating stories, and questions are always welcome.

Yunnan Stone Forest Geological Park, also known as Kunming Stone Forest, is a breathtaking collection of limestone formations and a prime example of South China’s karst landscape. Since the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), it has been hailed as the ‘First Wonder of the World.’ Approximately 270 million years ago, during the Carboniferous period of the Paleozoic era, the area was a vast sea. Over time, tectonic movements caused the sea to recede, giving rise to the limestone landscape. Continuous erosion by natural elements has shaped the area into its current form. The park is a vast natural treasure trove. Upon arrival, follow the tour guide to explore the park, using imagination to uncover its wonders. The guide will share legendary tales and point out the best photo spots. Spend 2-3 hours visiting the Big Stone Forest Area and the Small Stone Forest Area.

Jiuxiang Scenic Region - Enjoy a typical Yunnan-style lunch at a local restaurant before heading to Jiuxiang Scenic Region (a 50-minute drive).

Jiuxiang Scenic Region, known as the Museum of Karst Caves, is a collection of hundreds of karst caves, forming the largest such complex in China. Visitors will not only enjoy stunning landscapes but also experience the customs and culture of the Yi and Hui minorities. Jackie Chan’s movie “The Myth” used this unique landscape as a backdrop.

Upon arrival, follow the tour guide to take the sightseeing elevator, which descends 53 meters (174 feet) to Green Shady Valley. Also known as Lover Valley, it was once a place where young people sang love songs to each other. A boat ride through the narrow gorge reveals uniquely shaped limestone formations covered with lush vegetation on both sides of the river. Next, walk through The Grand Underground Valley to the Grand Lion Hall, the Fairy Palace of Jiuxiang Scenic Region. Here, different-shaped stalactites and stalagmites, highlighted with colored lights, create a bright and mysterious atmosphere. Passing through Diehong Bridge, enter Lying Dragon Cave, where two massive waterfalls await. Have the camera ready for photos. Then, visit Yi Minority Village, where young people perform traditional dances. The last stop is Bat Cave, where a stone ‘forest’ hangs upside down from the cave’s ceiling, characterized by its great and irregular inclination.

At the end of the path, take the chairlift to the exit.

Dali Railway Station - Transfer back to the railway station for a 2-hour bullet train ride to Dali (the train journey is independent). Upon arrival, a driver will hold a name sign at the exit of the arrival hall and transfer guests to their hotel in Dali.

Dali-Lijiang (B, L)

Chongsheng Three Pagodas - Meet the tour guide in the lobby of the Kunming hotel and head directly to Dali Chongsheng Three Pagodas. The Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, a national treasure under preservation, are 1,800 years old and document the development of Buddhism in the area. They stand at the east foot of the tenth peak of the massive Mt. Cangshan, facing the west shore of Erhai Lake.

Upon arrival, stroll around the temple and courtyards with the tour guide, admire the over 1,000-year-old pagoda, and learn about its history, culture, religion, and art.

Dali Town - Continue to Dali Ancient Town. Spend leisure time strolling around the ancient town, enjoying its grand city wall, traditional Bai ethnic minority folk houses, and marvelous scenery. Lunch will be enjoyed at a local restaurant.

Dali Ancient Town was a gateway to the Silk Road in Southwest China and served as a seat of government and a major military barracks for Yunnan Province in ancient times.

Erhai Lake - Then, continue to Erhai Lake. Erhai Lake is the largest highland lake and one of the seven biggest freshwater lakes in China. Its name means ‘sea shaped like an ear’ in Chinese.

Old Town of Lijiang - China - After the tour, head directly to Lijiang Old Town, a 2-hour drive, and enjoy the scenery along the way.

Lijiang City Highlights (B, L)

Yulong (Jade Dragon) Mountain - Meet the private guide in the hotel’s lobby in Lijiang and head directly to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, about a 1-hour drive. Enjoy the scenery along the way.

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, consisting of 13 peaks, is the southernmost glacier in the Northern Hemisphere. From Lijiang Old Town, the snow-covered and fog-enveloped mountain resembles a jade dragon lying in the clouds, hence the name Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

Learn about its legendary stories from the tour guide. Upon arrival, take the convenient cable car to the scenic viewing point (4,506 meters) and marvel at the spectacular glacier and mountain views. There is an option to hike up to 4,680 meters via wooden stairs. When ready to leave, descend by cable car.

Lijiang Impressions Show - Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, then experience the amazing Lijiang Impressions Show. The show is performed during the day, using the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain as its stage backdrop. More than 100 horses and 500 non-professional peasant actors from 16 local villages and over 10 ethnic minorities give their best performance. They use unique movements and original songs to showcase their culture, history, and customs. When booking, preferred tickets for the show can be selected.

Old Town of Lijiang - China - Next, head directly to the Old Town of Lijiang.

The Old Town of Lijiang is a well-preserved old city of ethnic minorities with a rich culture. First built in the late Song Dynasty (960 - 1279), it has a history of more than 800 years. The combination of multinational culture and the progress of the Naxi ethnic minority has resulted in buildings that incorporate the best architectural traits of Han, Bai, and Tibet into a unique Naxi style.

Mufu Palace - Next, visit Mufu Palace. The top ruler of the Naxi minority, the Mu Family, governed Lijiang from the Yuan Dynasty to the Qing Dynasty, spanning 470 years with 22 generations of rulers. The present Mufu Palace represents ancient central China architectural style from the Ming Dynasty, while also retaining characteristics of the Tang and Song Dynasties. Inside, the details reflect the minority features of the Bai and Naxi groups. Besides its architectural value, it is also an outstanding plant museum with ancient trees and extraordinary plants. The garden combines imperial style with Suzhou’s style. Explore the palace and learn its history and stories from the tour guide.

After the tour, choose to end the journey in Lijiang or return to Kunming by bullet train.

• Train Tickets
• Entrance Fee + Middle Seats Show Ticket
• Lunch
• Breakfast
• English speaking tour guide
• Cable car round trip to Glacier Park
• Overnight accommodation of standard twin room (two beds), based on twin share if choose the option
• Travel by private air-conditioned vehicle
• Shuttle bus at Stone forest, Jiuxiang Cave and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

• Accommodation if you choose to have the tour only
• Gratuites

Embark on an all-inclusive 3-day private journey to discover the top sights of Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang. This customized excursion is designed to match your interests, taking you to noteworthy landmarks like the Stone Forest, Jiuxiang Cave, Chongsheng Three Pagodas, Dali Old Town, Erhai Lake, Mu Mansion, and Lijiang Ancient Town. Experience the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and the breathtaking open-air performance of Impression Lijiang, acted by non-professional local villagers. This exclusive trip includes an English-speaking guide, private air-conditioned transport, train fares, entry fees, round-trip cable car, lunch, show admittance, and pickup and drop-off at your hotel. You have the choice to conclude your tour in Lijiang or return to Kunming. The package also provides an option to reserve 4-star lodging with daily morning meals.

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.