9 Days Yunnan Three Parallel Rivers Overland Tour (Lijiang-Shangri La-Feilaisi-Bingzhongluo-Nujiang-Dali)
Tour Overview
This 8-day group tour through the Three Parallel Rivers region of Yunnan Province is designed for travelers who want to explore one of China’s most breathtaking natural landscapes and...
Code of Tour: YET0000067394
Length of Travel: 9 Day
Destinations of Tour: Lijiang-Shangri La-Feilaisi-Bingzhongluo-Nujiang-Dali
Departure City: Lijiang
Price of Tour: Request
Type of Tour:
Features of Tour:
This 8-day group tour through the Three Parallel Rivers region of Yunnan Province is designed for travelers who want to explore one of China’s most breathtaking natural landscapes and immerse themselves in the local ethnic cultures. From the UNESCO World Heritage Tiger Leaping Gorge to the mystical Tibetan villages of Shangri-La and the remote Dulong River Valley, this journey takes you through a diverse range of ecosystems, cultures, and stunning vistas.
You will travel through highland plateaus, cross scenic mountain passes, and visit unique ethnic villages. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to experience Tibetan, Dulong, and Nu cultures, all while taking in the beauty of one of the most biologically diverse regions in the world. The tour also features a thrilling ride on the Nujiang Ropeway, offering sweeping views of the valleys and mountains.
Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a culture enthusiast, or a nature lover, this tour promises an unforgettable experience of the Three Parallel Rivers, its incredible landscapes, and its welcoming communities.
Tour Highlights:
- Tiger Leaping Gorge
- Explore one of the deepest gorges in the world, where the Jinsha River cuts through massive cliffs. Enjoy incredible trekking opportunities and awe-inspiring views of the river and surrounding mountains.
- Shangri-La & Meili Snow Mountain
- Visit the mystical town of Shangri-La and experience Tibetan culture in its purest form. The breathtaking views of Meili Snow Mountain, sacred to Tibetan Buddhists, provide a spectacular backdrop.
- Mingyong Glacier
- Hike to the foot of one of the largest glaciers in southern China and enjoy stunning views of ice and snow-capped peaks.
- Benzilan & Feilai Temple
- Discover the traditional Tibetan village of Benzilan and explore Feilai Temple, one of the best places to view the Meili Snow Mountain from a spiritual perspective.
- Nujiang Gorge
- Travel along the Degong Highway, offering panoramic views of the stunning Nujiang Gorge, a natural wonder known for its dramatic scenery.
- Dulong River Valley
- Visit the remote and beautiful Dulong River Valley, known for its indigenous Dulong people and untouched natural beauty. Explore the fascinating culture of this isolated region.
- Tibetan Villages and Culture
- Immerse yourself in the Tibetan culture at various points along the journey, including traditional villages, monasteries, and ancient temples.
- Nujiang Ropeway
- Take a thrilling ride on the Nujiang Ropeway, which offers a bird’s-eye view of the Nujiang River and the surrounding valleys, adding an exciting element to your adventure.
- Traditional Ethnic Villages
- Discover the diverse cultures of the Tibetan, Nu, and Dulong peoples in their traditional villages. Enjoy the opportunity to learn about their lifestyles, art, and crafts.
- Picturesque Scenery
- Be surrounded by the stunning landscapes of lush valleys, snow-capped peaks, rushing rivers, and untouched forests. Every day brings new vistas and opportunities for photography.
This comprehensive itinerary is perfect for those who want to experience the natural beauty and cultural diversity of Yunnan’s Three Parallel Rivers area while also enjoying adventure activities like trekking, ropeway rides, and cultural exploration.
Day By Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Lijiang (丽江)
Meals: Breakfast: On Your Own, Lunch: On Your Own, Dinner: On Your Own
Accommodation: Hotel near Lijiang Old Town
Itinerary:
- Upon arrival, you’ll meet other travelers from across the country and check in to your accommodation.
- You have free time to explore Lijiang Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient architecture and Naxi culture.
- As Lijiang is at a high altitude, it’s recommended to rest early to acclimatize to the highland environment and be prepared for the next day’s journey.
Day 2: Lijiang to Tiger Leaping Gorge (虎跳峡) – Haba Village (哈巴村) – Baishui Terrace (白水台) – Shangri-La (香格里拉)
Transport: Tourist Bus
Meals: Breakfast: On Your Own, Lunch: On Your Own, Dinner: Included
Itinerary:
- Lijiang to Tiger Leaping Gorge:
- Start the day with a drive to Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the deepest gorges in the world. The breathtaking views of the river rushing between steep cliffs are sure to leave a lasting impression.
- Haba Village and Baishui Terrace:
- Continue to Haba Village, a traditional Tibetan village, before heading to Baishui Terrace, a natural limestone landscape. The cascading terraces are a stunning sight, resembling a masterpiece of nature.
- Arrival in Shangri-La:
- In the evening, arrive in Shangri-La, a mystical Tibetan town set in the peaceful, high-altitude region of the Tibetan Plateau.
Day 3: Shangri-La (香格里拉) to Benzilan (奔子栏) – Feilai Temple (飞来寺)
Meals: Breakfast: Included, Lunch: On Your Own, Dinner: On Your Own
Itinerary:
- Shangri-La to Benzilan:
- Depart from Shangri-La, traveling through Benzilan, a picturesque Tibetan village surrounded by dramatic landscapes of mountains and valleys.
- Feilai Temple and Meili Snow Mountain (梅里雪山):
- Arrive at Feilai Temple, one of the best viewing spots for the majestic Meili Snow Mountain. The sight of the snow-covered peak, sacred to Tibetan Buddhists, is awe-inspiring.
Day 4: Feilai Temple (飞来寺) to Mingyong Glacier (明永冰川) – Cizhong (茨中)
Meals: Breakfast: Included, Lunch: On Your Own, Dinner: On Your Own
Itinerary:
- Mingyong Glacier:
- Visit Mingyong Glacier, part of the Meili Snow Mountain range. It is one of the largest glaciers in southern China, offering stunning views and a chance for a short hike to experience the wonder of the ice-covered landscape.
- Cizhong Tibetan Village:
- Continue to Cizhong, a Tibetan village surrounded by snow-capped peaks. The village maintains a traditional lifestyle, making it an ideal spot to immerse yourself in Tibetan culture and highland living.
Day 5: Cizhong (茨中) to Degong Highway (德贡公路) – Bingzhongluo (丙中洛)
Meals: Breakfast: On Your Own, Lunch: On Your Own, Dinner: On Your Own
Itinerary:
- Degong Highway (德贡公路):
- Travel along the famous “Heavenly Road,” winding through the magnificent Nujiang Gorge. The route is known for its dramatic views of mountain ranges and rivers, offering excellent photo opportunities.
- Bingzhongluo (丙中洛):
- Arrive in Bingzhongluo, known as the “Last Secret Realm.” This remote region is rich in natural beauty, with untouched landscapes that offer a peaceful retreat from the modern world.
Day 6: Bingzhongluo (丙中洛) to Dulong River Valley (独龙江)
Meals: Breakfast: On Your Own, Lunch: On Your Own, Dinner: On Your Own
Itinerary:
- Dulong River Valley (独龙江):
- Explore the Dulong River Valley, a mystical region in the upper reaches of the Nujiang River. Known for its unique ethnic culture, the Dulong people, who have maintained their traditional ways of life, make it an excellent place to learn about indigenous culture and the beauty of nature.
Day 7: Dulong River Valley (独龙江) to Laomudeng (老姆登) – Fugong County (福贡县)
Meals: Breakfast: On Your Own, Lunch: On Your Own, Dinner: On Your Own
Itinerary:
- Laomudeng (老姆登):
- Stop at Laomudeng, a small village in Nujiang Gorge where traditional Dulong culture is still preserved. Here, you can observe the unique architecture and customs of the Dulong people.
- Fugong County (福贡县):
- Continue to Fugong, an important town in Nujiang Prefecture known for its unique ethnic heritage and scenic beauty. This is the place to witness the fascinating culture of the Nu ethnic group.
Day 8: Fugong County (福贡县) to Lushui City (泸水市) – Baoshan (保山) or Dali (大理)
Meals: Breakfast: On Your Own, Lunch: On Your Own, Dinner: On Your Own
Itinerary:
- Fugong County to Lushui City (泸水市):
- Travel from Fugong to Lushui, the administrative center of Nujiang Prefecture, where you can experience the local culture and the vibrant atmosphere of this historical town.
- Baoshan (保山):
- Head to Baoshan, a historical city in western Yunnan, known for its rich cultural heritage. Depending on your schedule, you can either continue to Dali or return to Baoshan to take a high-speed train to your next destination.
- Arrive in Dali:
- If time permits, you’ll head to Dali, known for its picturesque landscapes and well-preserved Bai culture.
Day 9: Dali (大理) to Kunming (昆明) and Departure
Transport: By Air or High-Speed Rail
Meals: Breakfast: Included, Lunch: On Your Own, Dinner: On Your Own
Itinerary:
- Dali to Kunming:
- Take a high-speed rail or flight from Dali to Kunming, enjoying scenic views of the Yunnan landscape along the way.
- Departure:
- Depending on your flight or train schedule, you will return home, marking the end of this unforgettable highland adventure.
Service Included:
- Admission fees for all of the sightseeing spots listed in the itinerary;
- Meals as listed in the itinerary;
- Accommodation with breakfast as listed in the itinerary;
- Private English-speaking tour guide and vehicle for transfers & sightseeing;
- Service charge & government taxes;
- Luggage transfers between airports and hotels;
- Two bottles of mineral water each day;
- Train tickets from Kunming to Dali, Shangri-La to Kunming.
Service Excluded:
- Any arrival and departure international airfares or train tickets;
- Chinese visa fees;
- Excess baggage charged by Airlines;
- Single room supplement;
- Tips to guides and drivers;
- Personal expenses and gratuities to service staff;
- Personal travel insurance;
- All optional programs.
