Here’s the 15-day Kunming→Dali→Shaxi→Lijiang→Tiger Leaping Gorge→Feilai Temple itinerary in Yunnan complete with day-by-day highlights, must-do’s, and handy tips—ready for you to save and share!

Morning Green Lake Park: Mirror-calm water, lotus blooms, elders doing Tai Chi—picture-perfect for photos

Afternoon Yunnan University Red Walls: Academic-chic vibes, perfect backdrop for daydream shots

Evening Nanping Street Eats: Crossing-bridge rice noodles and rose-flower pastries—sweet finish!

All day: Explore the Karst pillars of Stone Forest—naturally formed “stone labyrinth” with epic light and shadow for your IG grid

Morning Guandu: Ming-Qing lanes, lanterns, cute cafés—artsy must-visit

Afternoon Dounan Flower & Bird Market: Endless orchids, songbirds, and greenery to liven up your feed

Morning : 2-hour bullet train to Dali—fast and comfy

Afternoon Dali Old Town: Cangshan + Erhai views, silver-filigree shopping, then handmade rice-flower cake and tea time

Route : Old Town → Xizhou → Shuanglang → Wase, rice paddies & fishing boats gliding by

Morning : Cable car up Cangshan—sea of clouds & mirror-lake vibes

Afternoon : Three Pagodas sunrise reflections—slow down and soak it in

Activity : Indigo dye workshop + stay in a Yi-style guesthouse, plus ethnic-flavor afternoon tea

Travel : Private car or bus (~2 h) from Dali to Shaxi

Evening : Shaxi Ancient Town stroll—stone streets, small bridges, morning market energy

Morning : Sideng Market—old Tea-Horse Road hub, Confucius Temple & ancient opera stage

Afternoon : Hand-carved wood souvenirs—one-of-a-kind mementos

Day trip : Hike the Tea-Horse Trail—mountain streams, stone bridges, hilltop panoramas

Break : Try yak-butter tea and Tibetan cheese for a warm, local snack

Morning : Lijiang Old Town—lantern-lined alleys & Naxi Drum Tower

Afternoon : Black Dragon Pool reflections of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain—pure calm

Morning : Baisha Village Tang-era murals & Four-Square Street

Evening : Live Naxi music—erhu, sanxian, and vocals under paper lanterns

Start : Qiaotou trailhead—cliffs above the roaring Yangtze River, heart-pounding views

Lunch : Simple mountain meal—hot porridge and barley cakes around a wood fire

Morning : 28 Pillar Stone → Middle Gorge viewpoint—nine-curve river panorama

Evening : Back to Lijiang for a hearty lamb hot-pot feast to refuel

Day 15｜Feilai Temple Sunrise Pilgrimage

Early : Meet at 4:30 AM for the drive up the Yunnan-Tibet Highway

Sunrise (5:30 AM): Meili Mountain peaks framing ancient stupas—spiritual and stunning

Breakfast : Tibetan tsampa and butter tea—a perfect high-altitude send-off

Must-Know Tips

What to Pack: Layered clothing + windbreaker—big temp swings!

Getting Around: Kunming→Dali by high-speed train/bus; private car rental for max freedom

Snacks: Bring bars & chocolate—energy boost in chilly mountain sections

Essentials: Power bank, raincoat, sunglasses—be ready for ever-changing plateau weather

Save & share with your travel squad—get ready for your own #Yunnan15DayAdventure!

 

Days 1–2｜Kunming & Shilin Stone Forest

Day 1: “Spring-City” Kunming

Green Lake Park: Mirror-calm waters framed by blossoming lotus and morning Tai Chi—Kunming’s emblem of year-round spring .

Evening at Nanping Street (南屏街): Feast on crossing-bridge rice noodles—rich broth, tender rice noodles—and finish with rose-scented pastries for a sweet floral note .

Day 2: UNESCO-Listed Karst Marvel

Shilin Stone Forest (石林): Just 86 km east of Kunming, this World Heritage site features towering limestone pinnacles sculpted over 270 million years—a photographer’s dream of light, shadow, and surreal rock forms .

Days 3–4｜Lijiang Old Town & Baisha Murals

Day 3: Lantern-Lit Alleys & Sacred Pools

Lijiang Old Town (丽江古城): Lose yourself in cobblestone lanes draped with red lanterns, pause at the Naxi Drum Tower for birds-eye views, and watch wooden balconies come alive at dusk .

Black Dragon Pool (黑龙潭公园): Snap the reflection of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in emerald waters—ideal at golden hour for that perfect social-media shot .

Day 4: Baisha’s Ancient Art & Music

Baisha Village Murals (白沙壁画): Visit the 8th-century murals in the old palace—China’s earliest Tibetan-Chinese fusion art—then try your hand at traditional pottery with Naxi artisans .

Evening Naxi Concert: Return to Old Town for an intimate courtyard performance of erhu, bamboo flute, and vocal harmonies under paper lanterns—an ethereal conclusion to Lijiang’s cultural day .

Day 5｜Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Majesty

Gondola to Glacier Park: Ascend to 4,506 m—the second-highest cable car in Asia—for panoramic views of “Peach Blossom Valley,” where rhododendrons bloom in April–May, and the 5,596 m Shanzidou peak towers overhead .

Blue Moon Valley (玉液流丹): Wander pastel-green pools carved by glacial melt—each hue more surreal than the last—and stroll bamboo-lined pathways along crystalline streams .

Days 6–8｜Tibetan Culture in Shangri-La

Day 6: Monastic Grandeur & Old-Town Charm

Songzanlin Monastery (松赞林寺): Known as the “Little Potala Palace,” this 1679-built Tibetan Buddhist monastery dazzles with gilded stupas, painted halls, and panoramic valley views .

Dukezong Old Town (独克宗古城): Wander time-worn streets to Moonlight Square; watch monks chant at Baiji Temple, incense swirling under fluttering prayer flags .

Day 7: Hillside Vistas & Grassland Horses

Guishan Park (龟山公园): Climb Turtle Hill at dawn for kaleidoscopic sunrises over orange-roofed monasteries and snowy peaks—best for early-bird photographers .

Napa Lake Grasslands (纳帕海): Drive to high-altitude meadows for yak sightings, wildflowers, and—if lucky—a traditional Tibetan horse parade in summer months .

Day 8: Feilai Temple Sunrise Pilgrimage

Feilai Temple (飞来寺): Depart at 4 AM via the winding Yunnan–Tibet Highway to the 3,700 m hilltop temple. Join dawn prayers as Kawagarbo’s summit glows pink—a spiritual crescendo to your Yunnan odyssey .

Transport: Private van or small-group transfers maximize flexibility; Kunming–Lijiang high-speed train (~3 hrs) links cities efficiently.

Day 1｜Lijiang Old Town Immersion

Morning – Cobblestones & Lanterns

Midday – Black Dragon Pool Reflections

Hop over to Black Dragon Pool Park: emerald water mirrors Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, especially magical at golden hour—an Instagram dream​.

Evening – Naxi Music & Night Markets

As dusk falls, settle into a courtyard for live Naxi folk tunes (erhu, flute, vocals) under paper lanterns, then snack your way through street stalls offering yak-butter tea and grilled skewers​.

Day 2｜Shaxi Ancient Town Time-Travel

Morning – Sideng Square & Tea-Horse Heritage

Drive ~2.5 h from Lijiang to Shaxi. Begin at Sideng Square—once a Tang-era trading hub—where a centuries-old scholar tree shades an opera stage and Confucius Temple​ China Highlights.

Afternoon – Artisan Alleys & Wood-Carving

Meander the narrow stone lanes to discover bamboo-weaving workshops and hand-carved wood artisans whose keepsakes make perfect, non-mass-produced souvenirs.

Sunset – Yak-Butter Tea by Mountain Stream

Head into the surrounding hills for a short trek; reward yourself with warming yak-butter tea and Tibetan cheese while perched beside a babbling stream—true high-land hospitality​.

Day 3｜Blue Moon Valley & Alpine Magic

Morning – Shuttle to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

From Lijiang Old Town, catch bus 101 (≈ RMB 15) to the park entrance, then hop the free shuttle up to Blue Moon Valley’s “Shuiyue Pavilion” station​.

Midday – Turquoise Pools & Waterfalls

Follow bamboo boardwalks past surreal, turquoise lakes named after lunar phases—each reflecting the snow-capped peaks above. Peak water clarity comes around noon on sunny days​

Tiny Urban Kitchen.

Afternoon – Glacier Paths & Photo Ops

Continue up to the glacier park (optional cable car) for panoramic Himalayan vistas. Don’t miss the azalea-draped Peach Blossom Valley if you visit in April–May​.

Departure – Back to Lijiang

Return shuttle and bus by late afternoon. Cap off your trip with an al fresco dinner in Old Town—try Naxi-style mushrooms and locally brewed barley wine.

Insider Tips

Best Time to Go: April–May for rhododendron blooms; early morning at Blue Moon Valley to beat the crowds​

wonderyunxi

Local Eats: Yak-butter tea, “erssi” rice sheets, barley wine, and street-grilled skewers.

Days 1–2｜East Lake Cherry Blossoms & City Retro Vibes

Day 1: East Lake Moshan Cherry Blossom Garden

Morning: Head to East Lake Cherry Blossom Park (Moshan Scenic Area) to see thousands of pink blooms against water reflections—peak season mid-March to early April.

Evening: Wander Li Huangpi Road’s 1900-built heritage street—antique shops, tea houses, and street-art corners perfect for sunset photos ​

Day 3｜Yellow Crane Tower & Riverside Promenade

Morning: Climb Yellow Crane Tower—rebuilt 1981–85 but tracing its origins to AD 223—for 360° views of the Yangtze and the city skyline ​.

Afternoon: Drive ~40 km to Mulan Grassland, where rolling meadows, grazing pony herds, and Mongolian-style yurts set the scene for a peaceful finale; try horseback riding and local goat-milk yogurt ​.

Travel Tips

Best Time: Mid-March to early April for peak cherry blossoms at East Lake​.

Enjoy your six-day Wuhan journey—where urban energy meets lakeside serenity and millennia of heritage!

Day 1｜Arrive in Jinghong & Night Market Magic

Morning Arrival in Jinghong

Touch down and feel the tropical warmth—average annual temperature ~21.4 °C. Grab a plate of pineapple rice and lemongrass-grilled fish for your first Dai-flavor brunch .

Evening: “Dai Show” Spectacular

Experience the immersive night-time performance “Dai Show” with water dances, aerial acrobatics, and splash-fest fun—an absolute must for first-timers .

Day 3｜Wild Elephant Valley & Riverside Village

Morning: Wild Elephant Valley

Journey 48 km north to this protected rainforest park where ~100 wild Asian elephants roam free . Take the forest cable car, stroll the 4 km boardwalk, and, if luck smiles, glimpse a baby elephant by the river.

Book Ahead: “Dai Show” and Botanical Garden tickets sell out—reserve online in advance.

This is a carefully designed 8-day classic Yunnan tour, covering must-visit cities and highlights such as Kunming (昆明), Dali (大理), and Lijiang (丽江). In just 8 days, you will experience Yunnan’s breathtaking landscapes and unique culture, embarking on an unforgettable journey.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Kunming (昆明): Spring-like all year round, best climate in April-May (15-25°C), mostly sunny and ideal for outdoor activities.

Dali (大理): Most comfortable from March to May and September to November (18-26°C), occasional showers during the rainy season (June-August).

Shaxi (沙溪): Cool and pleasant in spring and autumn (April-June, September-November), quiet ancient town with few tourists.

Lijiang (丽江): Flower fields bloom in spring (April-May); clear skies in autumn (September-October); best snow mountain scenery in winter (December-February).

Blue Moon Valley (蓝月谷): Lake is bluest in summer (June-September); stunning snow-capped reflections in winter (December-February); be prepared for cold weather due to high altitude.

Recommended Attractions and Travel Plan

Day 1-2: Kunming (昆明)

• Dianchi Lake (滇池) (Free, open all day): Watch seagulls in the morning, cycle around the lake.
• Stone Forest (石林) (Entrance ¥130, 8:00–18:00): Karst landscape wonders; suggested 3-hour visit.
• Yunnan Ethnic Village (云南民族村) (Entrance ¥90, 9:00–18:00): Experience ethnic minority cultures.

Day 3-4: Dali (大理)

• Erhai Ecological Corridor (洱海生态廊道) (Free): Recommended cycling route: Ancient Town → Longkan Pier (龙龛码头) → S Bay (S湾) → Xizhou (喜洲).
• Wuwei Temple (无为寺) (Free): Hidden ancient temple at the foot of Cangshan (苍山), ideal for meditation.
• Xizhou Ancient Town (喜洲古镇) (Free): Check out rice fields and try Xizhou Baba (喜洲粑粑).

Day 5: Shaxi (沙溪)

• Sideteng Street (寺登街) (Free): Ancient Tea Horse Road market, feel the thousand-year-old history.
• Yujin Bridge (玉津桥) (Free): Perfect spot for sunset photography.
• Pioneer Bookstore (先锋书局) (Free): Artistic bookstore with creative local souvenirs.

Day 6-7: Lijiang (丽江)

• Lijiang Old Town (丽江古城) (Maintenance fee ¥50): Stroll Sifang Street (四方街) at night and experience Naxi (纳西) culture.
• Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (玉龙雪山) (Entrance ¥100 + cable car ticket): Includes Blue Moon Valley (蓝月谷); recommend visiting in the morning.
• Black Dragon Pool Park (黑龙潭公园) (Free): Capture the “Golden Mountain at Sunrise” scene.

Day 8: Blue Moon Valley (蓝月谷)

• Blue Moon Valley (蓝月谷) (Included in Jade Dragon Snow Mountain ticket): Suggest a 3-hour visit; walk or take an electric cart (¥50).

Transportation Guide

• Kunming (昆明) → Dali (大理): High-speed train 2 hours (~¥145) or bus 4 hours.
• Dali (大理) → Shaxi (沙溪): 2-hour drive by car/charter, or take bus to Jianchuan (剑川) and transfer.
• Shaxi (沙溪) → Lijiang (丽江): 2.5-hour charter (~¥200) or return to Dali and transfer to high-speed train.
• Lijiang (丽江) → Blue Moon Valley (蓝月谷): Bus No. 101 (~¥15) or charter (round-trip ~¥150).

Food Recommendations

Kunming (昆明): Crossing-the-bridge rice noodles (过桥米线), Steamed Chicken Pot (汽锅鸡), Wild Mushroom Hotpot (野生菌火锅).

Dali (大理): Claypot Fish (砂锅鱼), Rushan Cheese (乳扇), Cold Chicken Rice Noodles (凉鸡米线).

Shaxi (沙溪): Local Plum Wine (本地梅酒), Traditional Bai Banquet (土八碗).

Lijiang (丽江): Naxi Smoked Pork Ribs (纳西腊排骨), Chickpea Jelly (鸡豆凉粉), Black Goat Hotpot (黑山羊火锅).

Shopping Recommendations

Kunming (昆明): Flower Pastry (鲜花饼), Yunnan Small-bean Coffee (云南小粒咖啡) — more affordable in supermarkets.

Dali (大理): Tie-dye Cloth (扎染布艺), Silverware (银器) — best craftsmanship at Xinhua Village (新华村), Heqing (鹤庆).

Shaxi (沙溪): Handmade Plum Wine (手工梅子酒), Creative products from Pioneer Bookstore (先锋书局文创).

Lijiang (丽江): Dongba Paper Crafts (东巴纸制品), Naxi Embroidery (纳西刺绣).

Accommodation Recommendations

Kunming (昆明): Boutique hotels near Cuihu Lake (翠湖), e.g., Cuihu Hotel (翠湖宾馆).

Dali (大理): Guesthouses by Erhai Lake (洱海), recommend Shuanglang (双廊) or Ancient Town area.

Shaxi (沙溪): Inns in the old town, such as “Yezi’s Inn” (叶子的店).

Lijiang (丽江): Naxi-style courtyards like “Boyun Xin She (泊云心舍)”, starting at ¥1000+ per night.

Travel Tips

• Altitude Sickness: Lijiang (丽江) and Blue Moon Valley (蓝月谷) are at high altitudes; avoid intense exercise and prepare oxygen bottles.
• Sun Protection and Cold Weather: Strong UV rays require SPF50+ sunscreen; bring a windproof jacket for large day-night temperature differences.
• Environmental Protection: No littering at Blue Moon Valley (蓝月谷); protect the water source.
• Ticket Reservations: Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (玉龙雪山) cable car tickets must be booked in advance via “Lijiang Tourism Group” (丽江旅游集团) official WeChat account.

Detailed Itinerary Table

This itinerary combines Yunnan’s natural wonders and rich culture — from the eternal spring flowers of Kunming (昆明), the ancient Tea Horse Road (茶马古道) of Shaxi (沙溪), to the majestic snow mountains of Lijiang (丽江). Each stop is a feast for the eyes and taste buds. Adjust hiking intensity according to your stamina, and leave flexible time slots to enjoy a slower pace of life.
Wishing you a wonderful journey!

Embarking on a self-driving adventure from Singapore to China offers a thrilling opportunity to explore diverse cultures, stunning landscapes, and historical landmarks. This road trip spans four countries—Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Laos, and China—and covers a journey through lush rainforests, bustling cities, and remote Tibetan villages. Join me on a journey across Southeast Asia and China, where every twist and turn brings a new discovery!

Day 1-3: Starting the Adventure – Singapore to Malaysia

A Modern Beginning: Singapore

The journey begins in Singapore, one of the most modern and multicultural cities in the world. Known for its pristine streets, towering skyscrapers, and rich cultural diversity, Singapore provides the perfect starting point for any road trip. We took a few hours to explore iconic landmarks like Marina Bay Sands, the Gardens by the Bay, and Chinatown before heading north to Malaysia.

Crossing into Malaysia: Malacca and Ipoh

The drive from Singapore to Malacca (a UNESCO World Heritage site) is about 4 hours. The city’s blend of Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial architecture left us feeling like we’d stepped into a different era. We strolled through the historic streets, enjoying the Jonker Street night market, before heading onward to Ipoh. Ipoh is known for its street food—Char Kway Teow and White Coffee were definitely highlights of our short stay.

Day 4-6: Thailand’s Rich History and Natural Beauty

Into Thailand: Bangkok’s Vibrancy

Crossing the border into Thailand, we arrived in Bangkok, a city that never sleeps. We spent two days in the capital, exploring the awe-inspiring Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and the vibrant Chao Phraya River. The Thai food scene is unparalleled, and we made sure to sample as much Pad Thai, Green Curry, and Mango Sticky Rice as possible.

Rural Adventures: Chiang Mai and Chiang Khong

After Bangkok, we ventured further north, passing through charming towns like Chiang Mai, with its stunning temples and nearby mountains, and Chiang Khong, a small town along the Mekong River. Chiang Khong served as the gateway to Laos, where we crossed the border into a different world.

Day 7-9: Into Laos – Ethnic Villages and Nature

Laos’ Cultural Charm: Luang Namtha and Boten

Our first stop in Laos was Luang Namtha, a haven for eco-tourism. Known for its lush forests and rich ethnic diversity, this area is perfect for hiking and cultural exploration. After a relaxing stay, we continued to Boten, a town that marks the border between Laos and China, where we prepared for the next leg of our journey.

Exploring the Nature of Laos: Jinghong and Xishuangbanna

Crossing into China, we arrived in Jinghong, a tropical city in Yunnan Province famous for its tea plantations and vibrant Dai culture. It was the perfect introduction to China’s southwestern region. We also spent time at the Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, home to diverse plant species, before moving on to Pu’er, renowned for its Pu-erh tea.

Day 10-14: Yunnan’s Scenic Wonders

Discovering Dali: Ancient Towns and Lakes

Dali was a highlight of our trip in China. Nestled beside Erhai Lake, Dali’s ancient town offers a charming mix of history, culture, and nature. We visited the iconic Three Pagodas, strolled through the historic Dali Ancient Town, and enjoyed the serene beauty of Erhai Lake, with the majestic Cangshan Mountain as its backdrop.

Lijiang and Lugu Lake: Naxi Culture and Stunning Views

Next, we drove to Lijiang, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient architecture and Naxi culture. The winding streets of Lijiang Old Town are perfect for leisurely exploration. We then headed to Lugu Lake, a beautiful highland lake surrounded by mountains, where we learned about the unique Mosuo culture, often called the “Kingdom of Women.”

Day 15-18: The Tibetan Plateau – Tibet Awaits

Entering Tibet: Shigatse and Lhasa

Crossing into Tibet, we made our way to Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city, where we visited Tashilhunpo Monastery, home to a giant statue of the Maitreya Buddha. From Shigatse, we headed to Lhasa, the heart of Tibetan Buddhism. We spent a few days exploring the iconic Potala Palace, the Jokhang Temple, and the bustling Barkhor Street, where pilgrims walk around the sacred temple.

The Majestic Everest: Tingri and Mount Everest Base Camp

One of the highlights of our Tibetan journey was the drive to Mount Everest Base Camp. The journey took us through remote landscapes and tiny Tibetan villages, culminating in awe-inspiring views of the world’s tallest peak. It was a humbling and surreal experience to stand at the base of Mount Everest and witness its grandeur.

Day 19-24: Remote Tibetan Villages and the Heart of China

Off the Beaten Path: Yajiang, Litang, and Garze

As we ventured deeper into Tibet, we explored remote villages like Yajiang, Litang, and Garze, where Tibetan culture is still vibrant and unspoiled. The landscapes here are as breathtaking as they are rugged, with high-altitude plateaus, snow-capped peaks, and ancient monasteries dotting the horizon.

Arrival in Chengdu: Sichuan’s Culinary Paradise

After a long drive through Tibet, we made our way to Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province. Chengdu is famous for its spicy cuisine, particularly hot pot and Mapo Tofu, and we made sure to indulge in every bite. We also visited the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, where we got to see the adorable pandas up close.

Day 25-30: The Final Leg – Sichuan to Beijing

Chengdu to Beijing: A Glimpse of China’s Heart

We spent the last stretch of our journey in Beijing, China’s capital, a city that blends modernity with ancient history. From the awe-inspiring Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven to the iconic Great Wall of China, Beijing is a city that will leave you in awe at every turn.

The End of the Road: Reflections on the Journey

After 30 days on the road, we reached the end of our journey in Beijing, but our memories of the stunning landscapes, rich cultures, and unforgettable experiences will stay with us forever. From the streets of Singapore to the Tibetan Plateau and the bustling capital of Beijing, this self-driving adventure was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Travel Tips for a Self-Driving Adventure

Plan Your Route Carefully

A road trip of this magnitude requires thorough planning. Be sure to check visa requirements, road conditions, and cultural norms for each country. Also, have a good GPS and offline maps handy, as some areas might not have reliable internet.

Pack Smart and Be Prepared

Packing for such a long trip means bringing everything from basic car repair tools to first-aid kits, and snacks for long stretches of road. Always carry enough water and sunscreen—especially when traveling through high-altitude areas like Tibet.

Budget for Unexpected Costs

This journey will take you through both urban areas and remote regions, and the costs may vary significantly. Budget extra for things like fuel, toll fees, accommodation, and meals in more remote locations.

This road trip from Singapore to China was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. It’s a journey that allowed me to truly immerse myself in the cultures and landscapes of Southeast Asia and China. If you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure, a self-driving tour through these diverse regions should be at the top of your bucket list!

Customers:Julie and Spomenka’s
Nationality:Australia
Destinations:
Dali-Xizhou-Shaxi-Tiger Leaping Gorge-Shangri La-Meilis Snow Mountain-Lijiang (11 Days)

Day 1: Arrival in Dali

Julie and Spomenka arrived in Dali, a picturesque city in Yunnan Province, China. They were immediately captivated by the beautiful landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the region.

After checking into their hotel, they explored the city’s ancient streets, stopping at local markets and cafes. They also visited the famous Three Pagodas of Dali, which date back to the 8th century.

Day 2: Dali Exploration

Continuing their exploration of Dali, Julie and Spomenka visited the Erhai Lake, a stunning freshwater lake surrounded by mountains. They took a boat ride and enjoyed the peaceful scenery.

They also visited the Dali Ancient City, a UNESCO World Heritage site. They walked through the narrow cobblestone streets and visited local museums, learning about the city’s rich history and culture.

Day 3: Shaxi

The next day, Julie and Spomenka traveled to Shaxi, a small town known for its ancient architecture and UNESCO World Heritage site. They wandered through the cobblestone streets, taking in the vibrant colors and charming shops.

During their visit, they also learned about the Naxi people, a minority group who have lived in the area for centuries. They attended a traditional Naxi concert and enjoyed a delicious meal of local cuisine.

Day 4: Tiger Leaping Gorge

Julie and Spomenka’s next stop was Tiger Leaping Gorge, a breathtaking canyon located near Lijiang. They took a hiking tour through the gorge, marveling at the stunning views and rugged terrain.

The hike was challenging, but the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the rushing Yangtze River made it all worth it.

Day 5: Shangri La

Arriving in Shangri La, a mythical land known for its breathtaking beauty and peaceful atmosphere, Julie and Spomenka explored the city. They visited local markets and temples, taking in the unique culture and traditions of the region.

During their stay, they also took a trip to the Nu River, where they kayaked through the scenic waters and enjoyed the breathtaking surroundings.

Day 6-7: Meilis Snow Mountain

Julie and Spomenka’s next stop was Meilis Snow Mountain, a towering peak located near Lijiang. They spent two days exploring the mountain, taking in the stunning views and visiting local villages.

They also visited a local Tibetan village, where they learned about the culture and traditions of the region’s indigenous people.

Day 8: Lijiang

After their adventure in Meilis Snow Mountain, Julie and Spomenka returned to Lijiang. They spent their final days in the city exploring its ancient streets and visiting the famous Lijiang Ancient City.

They also enjoyed a farewell dinner with their traveling companions, sharing stories and memories of their journey through Yunnan Province.

Julie and Spomenka’s 11-day Yunnan trip was a unforgettable experience, filled with beautiful landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and exciting adventures. They left the region with memories that would last a lifetime.

Customers:Julie and Spomenka’s
Nationality:Australia
Destinations:
Kunming-Stone Forest-Yuanyang Rice Terraces-Puer-Jinghong in XishuangBanna(8 Days)

Julie and Spomenka’s Yunnan Trip (Kunming-Stone Forest-Yuanyang Rice Terraces-Puer-Jinghong in XishuangBanna)

Day 1 Lijiang -First Bend of Yangtze River-Qiaotou Town-Tea Horse Guesthouse
Day 2 Tea Horse Guesthouse-Halfway Guesthouse-Tina’s Guesthouse-Hetaoyuan Village

Nestled deep in the Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Yunnan, China, Tiger Leaping Gorge is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its breathtaking landscapes and challenging hiking trails. In this blog, I will share my experience of a two-day hiking adventure in Tiger Leaping Gorge, starting from Lijiang and ending at Hetaoyuan.

Day 1: Lijiang to Middle Tiger Leaping Gorge

Our journey began early in the morning as we left Lijiang and headed towards Shigu Qiaotou Tea Horse Hostel. The drive took us through the picturesque villages of Lijiang, giving us a glimpse of the rural life in the region. Upon arriving at Shigu Qiaotou, we were greeted by the friendly staff of the hostel and provided with a hearty breakfast.

We started our hike at around 9 a.m., following the well-marked trail that leads to the Middle Tiger Leaping Gorge. The journey was filled with stunning views of the mountains, valleys, and rivers. We encountered a few challenging sections of the trail, but the adrenaline rush made it all worth it.

After hours of hiking, we reached the Middle Tiger Leaping Gorge, where we had lunch and took a short break. The gorge, carved by the Jinsha River, is a sight to behold, with towering cliffs and turbulent waters. We spent some time exploring the area and taking pictures before continuing our journey.

We reached Bendiwan Hostel in the late afternoon, where we rested and enjoyed a delicious dinner. The hostel offers cozy accommodations and a warm atmosphere, making it the perfect place to unwind after a long day of hiking.

Day 2: Bendiwan to Hetaoyuan

After a good night’s sleep, we woke up early and had breakfast at Bendiwan Hostel. Our goal for the day was to reach Hetaoyuan, which is located at the end of Tiger Leaping Gorge.

The hike on the second day was slightly easier than the first, but the scenery was just as breathtaking. We followed the trail that led us through the forest and along the river, taking in the beauty of the natural world around us.

As we approached Hetaoyuan, we could see the distant mountains and the village itself. The villagers were friendly and welcoming, and they offered us a cup of tea as we rested for a moment.

We finally reached Hetaoyuan in the late afternoon, exhausted but exhilarated. Our two-day hiking adventure in Tiger Leaping Gorge had come to an end, and we were rewarded with stunning memories and unforgettable experiences.

Conclusion: Tiger Leaping Gorge is an unforgettable destination that offers adventurous travelers a unique opportunity to explore the beauty of the Yunnan region. The two-day hiking adventure from Lijiang to Hetaoyuan was a challenging but rewarding experience that I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a taste of the outdoors in China.

阿者科村/Azheke Village

阿者科村蘑菇房/Mushroom Houses in Azheke Village

Introduction: Lijiang City, located in the Yunnan province of China, is a picturesque destination known for its UNESCO World Heritage site, Lijiang Old Town. In this blog, I will share my experience of a day of exploration in Lijiang City, visiting Lijiang Old Town and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

Day 1: Lijiang City

Our journey began in the morning as we arrived in Lijiang City. We were greeted by the vibrant atmosphere of the city, with its traditional architecture and bustling streets.

Our first stop was Lijiang Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its historic architecture and cultural heritage. The town is surrounded by mountains and characterized by its narrow cobblestone streets, traditional Naxi homes, and ancient city walls.

We strolled through the winding streets of Lijiang Old Town, taking in the sights and sounds of the bustling town. We stopped at various local shops and cafes, trying the delicious Naxi cuisine and purchasing souvenirs for our friends back home.

As we explored the town, we learned about the rich history and culture of the Naxi people, who have lived in the region for centuries. The Naxi are known for their unique music, dance, and textile traditions, which are still thriving today.

In the afternoon, we set out for Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, located about 30 kilometers away from Lijiang City. The drive took us through stunning landscapes and picturesque villages, giving us a glimpse of the rural life in the region.

Upon arriving at Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, we were greeted by the towering peaks and glacier-covered mountains. We took a cable car to the top of the mountain, where we were rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

We spent some time exploring the area and taking pictures before returning to Lijiang City in the evening. The day had been filled with adventure and discovery, and we were eager to share our experiences with our friends back home.

Conclusion: Lijiang City is a charming destination that offers a unique glimpse into the culture and history of the Naxi people. A day of exploration in Lijiang Old Town and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is a must-do for any traveler visiting the region. The stunning landscapes, historic architecture, and rich cultural heritage make Lijiang City a memorable destination that you won’t want to miss.

Yunnan Travel Blog

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Adventure TourYuanyang Hani Rice TerracesGolf TravelTea Culture TourBirding ToursNanjian CountyQujingHuize CountyFumin TourDaliDongchuanTiger Leaping GorgeHiking TourDali TourDali Travel BlogHistorical and Cultural HeritageWorld Natural HeritageShangri-LaMinority Culture TourPhotograph Tour

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