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 the Art Theatre. Here, dancers and musicians in exquisite costumes perform drum-inspired choreography from ethnic village dances, singing exotic songs that evoke deep emotions. (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 for dancing, singing, and 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 towering limestone formations, sculpted by nature over 270 million years, forming a labyrinthine stone forest that feels otherworldly.

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

Dali - Upon arrival, step back in time in Dali Ancient Town, nestled at the base of the Cangshan Mountains. Once the capital of the Nanzhao and Dali kingdoms, this historic town invites you to wander its cobblestone streets, admire the traditional Bai architecture with elegant grey-tiled roofs and ornate marble details, 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 trade fresh fruits, meats, spices, livestock, and more. Experience a traditional Three Course Tea ceremony and admire 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 to see artisans crafting batik fabrics and mastering intricate tie-dye techniques. Visit a workshop to observe 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, enjoying panoramic views of the Cangshan Mountain Range and surrounding villages, offering a serene and majestic perspective of the region’s natural beauty.

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

Black Dragon Pond Park - After breakfast, depart Dali for Lijiang. Your first stop is the scenic Black Dragon Pond Park at the foot of Elephant Hill. Known for its classic Chinese garden landscape, capture the iconic view of the Snow Dragon Bridge framing the snow-capped Jade Dragon Snow Mountain reflected in the tranquil pond.

Dongba Cultural Museum - Next to the park is the Dongba Museum, dedicated to the Naxi people’s culture. Discover 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 night falls, explore the enchanting alleyways of Lijiang Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Follow the sound of flowing canals, cross ancient stone bridges, and discover a lively town filled with charming shops, cozy cafes, and the warm hospitality of the Naxi people.

Lijiang

Yulong (Jade Dragon) Mountain - Begin your day with an early start, embarking on an exciting journey to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Enjoy the breathtaking Impression show at Ganhaizi, located at the mountain’s base. Then, take a cable car to Spruce Meadow for a leisurely walk, immersing yourself in the landscape’s natural beauty. Visit Blue Moon Valley, a stunning destination at the mountain’s base, known for its turquoise rivers and lakes. Stroll along scenic paths and admire the snow-capped peaks reflected in the clear waters.

Lijiang Mural in Baisha Village - After this majestic adventure, visit Baisha Village to see the intricate Baisha murals, showcasing the Naxi minority’s rich cultural heritage.

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

Lijiang to Tiger Leaping Gorge to Shangri-La

Yangtze River First Bend - After breakfast, travel to the First Bend of the Yangtze River at Stone Drum Town (1.5 hours) to witness the impressive scenery where the world’s third-longest river makes a dramatic V-turn. This area is part of the Three Parallel Rivers of Yunnan Protected Areas.

Tiger Leaping Gorge (Hutiao Xia) - Continue north to Tiger Leaping Gorge, nestled between the snow-capped peaks of Haba Snow Mountain to the north and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain to the south. One of the world’s deepest gorges, it stretches 16 km with a sheer 3900 meters between the Jinsha River and the Haba Snow Mountains. The gorge is home to the indigenous Naxi people, living in small hamlets. Meet your new tour guide here.

Dukezong Ancient Town - In the afternoon, continue to the legendary Tibetan city of Shangri-La, over 3,000 meters (10,000 feet) above sea level. Experience the thrill of reaching the Tibetan plateau, inhabited by robed monks and nomads. Observe the changing landscape and architecture, with barley fields and yaks in the valleys and snow-capped mountains above. Arrive at Dukezong Ancient Town, where locals preserve the traditional Tibetan lifestyle, crafting jewelry, instruments, and more. Enjoy exploring the narrow alleys and cobbled lanes or relaxing from the day’s adventures.

Shangri-La

Sumtsaling Monastery - After a hearty Tibetan breakfast, visit the restored Songzanlin Monastery, also known as the ‘Little Potala Palace,’ modeled after Lhasa’s Potala Palace. As the largest Tibetan monastery in Yunnan, it houses over 700 monks practicing Tibetan Buddhism. The golden roof is a beacon attracting Buddhists from across Asia. Visit a local family to experience the life of a herdsman in the high steppe.

Potatso National Park - Embark on an exciting exploration of Potatso National Park, immersing yourself in the stunning natural beauty and ecological diversity of this remarkable conservation area.

Departure from Shangri-La

Shangri-La County - Enjoy a final cowboy’s breakfast of prime yak steak and fried mushrooms before heading to Shangri-La airport. Take this last opportunity to shop for gifts, as Shangri-La boasts some of Yunnan’s best markets. Stock up on prayer flags, thangkas, and Khampa Cowboy Hats for friends and family. We hope you enjoyed your Yunnan journey 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.