How to Plan Lijiang-Shangri-La Tours

For most tourists, Lijiang and Shangri-La tour is a must-visit route for Yunnan travel, as the two places house the famous Yunnan attractions such as Lijiang Ancient Town, Tiger Leaping Gorge, Lugu Lake, Pudacuo National Park , Songzanlin Monastery and Lashihai Lake, etc.  Lijiang, the Kingdom of Naxi People, is a beautifully preserved ancient Chinese town, infused with cultural flavor. And Shangri-La is not only a fictional place in the novel ‘Lost Horizon’ by British author James Hilton, but also a mythical paradise hidden in southwestern China. Here, you’ll lose yourselves in old towns, mysterious Buddhist monasteries, picturesque lakes, breathtaking beauty.

For most tourists, a Lijiang and Shangri-La tour is a must-visit route in Yunnan, as these two destinations are home to famous attractions like Lijiang Ancient Town, Tiger Leaping Gorge, Lugu Lake, Pudacuo National Park, Songzanlin Monastery, and Lashihai Lake.

Lijiang, the Kingdom of the Naxi People, is a beautifully preserved ancient town filled with cultural significance. Shangri-La, on the other hand, is not only a mythical paradise from the novel Lost Horizon by James Hilton but also a stunningly scenic Tibetan town tucked away in southwestern China. Visitors can expect old towns, mystical Buddhist monasteries, picturesque lakes, and breathtaking landscapes.

Lijiang-Shangri-La Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Lijiang

  • Arrival and accommodation check-in.

  • Lijiang Old Town (丽江古城) exploration, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient architecture, cobbled streets, and traditional Naxi culture.

  • Visit Mu’s Residence (木府) to learn about local history and customs.

Day 2: Lijiang

  • Black Dragon Pool Park (黑龙潭), famous for scenic views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (玉龙雪山) and the iconic Moon Embracing Pavilion (月亮门).

  • Optionally, take a cable car ride up Jade Dragon Snow Mountain for panoramic views and alpine scenery.

  • Explore Shuhe Ancient Town (束河古镇), a quieter alternative to Lijiang Old Town with well-preserved Naxi culture.

Day 3: Lijiang – Tiger Leaping Gorge – Shangri-La

  • Depart early for Tiger Leaping Gorge (虎跳峡), one of the deepest and most spectacular river canyons in the world.

  • Hike along the high trail for breathtaking views of the Jinsha River (金沙江) and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

  • Continue the journey to Shangri-La (香格里拉), a culturally rich Tibetan town.

  • Check into your accommodation in Shangri-La.

Day 4: Shangri-La

  • Explore Songzanlin Monastery (松赞林寺), the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan.

  • Visit Dukezong Ancient Town (独克宗古城) to experience Tibetan architecture and culture.

  • Optionally, visit Napahai Lake Nature Reserve (纳帕海) for birdwatching or a leisurely walk.

Day 5: Departure from Shangri-La

  • Depending on your departure time, you may have free time in the morning.

  • Transfer to Shangri-La Airport (香格里拉机场) or the bus station for your onward journey.

Travel Tips

  • Accommodation: Book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

  • Transportation: Consider private transfers or local buses for travel between Lijiang, Tiger Leaping Gorge, and Shangri-La.

  • Weather: Pack accordingly, as temperatures can vary significantly, especially in higher-altitude areas like Shangri-La.

Lijiang and Shangri-La Itinerary Suggestions

How Long to Spend in Lijiang and Shangri-La

Typically, a Lijiang and Shangri-La tour lasts 5–7 days. Spend 2–3 days in each destination to visit their classic attractions. If you prefer hiking or want to explore more attractions nearby, consider extending the itinerary by 1–3 days.

Given Shangri-La’s high-altitude location, it’s important to allow some time to acclimate to the elevation. You may want to slow down your pace and plan for an extra day to avoid altitude sickness.

6-Day Lijiang and Shangri-La Adventure Tour

This itinerary balances cultural immersion, hiking, and scenic exploration:

  • Day 1: Lijiang arrival and Old Town exploration.

  • Day 2: Jade Dragon Snow Mountain hike.

  • Day 3: Tiger Leaping Gorge hike, then transfer to Shangri-La.

  • Day 4: Songzanlin Monastery, Tibetan blessing ceremony, and cycling around Napa Lake.

  • Day 5: Qianhu Mountains (千户山) hiking.

  • Day 6: Departure from Shangri-La.

Classic Yunnan Tour Including Lijiang and Shangri-La

For first-timers, a classic Yunnan trip often includes Lijiang, Shangri-La, Dali, and Kunming:

  • Days 1–2: Kunming (arrival and Naigu Stone Forest).

  • Day 3: Dali (Er Lake and Xizhou Ancient Town).

  • Days 4–6: Lijiang (Old Town, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Tiger Leaping Gorge).

  • Days 7–8: Shangri-La (Pudacuo National Park and Songzanlin Monastery).

How to Travel Between Lijiang and Shangri-La

Lijiang and Shangri-La are relatively close, with multiple transportation options:

Transportation Comparison

Mode of Transport Time Features Recommendation
Private Transfer 3 hours Flexible, direct, with a guide Highly recommended
Taxi 3 hours Less flexible, more expensive Less recommended
Shuttle Bus 3 hours Cost-effective but less comfortable Not recommended
Bullet Train 1 hour Fast but misses Tiger Leaping Gorge Recommended for direct trips
Flight 1 day (with transfer) No direct flights Not recommended

Private transfers are ideal, especially for family trips or a hassle-free experience. A bullet train can be used for a direct, quick connection if you’re not visiting Tiger Leaping Gorge.

Best Time to Visit Lijiang and Shangri-La

The best times to visit Lijiang and Shangri-La are:

  • Lijiang: April–May and September–October, with temperatures ranging from 20–25°C (68–77°F).

  • Shangri-La: May–October, with temperatures varying between 15–25°C (59–77°F).

Spring (March–May) is ideal for vibrant flower seasons in Lijiang, while Shangri-La starts to warm up by May. Summer (June–August) brings lush greenery but also frequent rain and crowds. Autumn (September–November) is perfect for golden landscapes and fewer crowds. Winter (December–February) offers stunning snow-covered mountains, though temperatures can drop to -10°C (14°F) in Shangri-La.

Where to Stay in Lijiang and Shangri-La

Recommended Accommodation Areas in Lijiang

  • Lijiang Old Town: Best for first-timers, combining sightseeing, dining, and entertainment.

  • Shuhe Ancient Town: A quieter area with preserved Naxi architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.

  • Baisha Ancient Town: A quieter option with views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain from boutique hotels.

Recommended Accommodation Areas in Shangri-La

  • Dukezong Ancient Town: Popular for first-timers, with Tibetan culture experiences and dining options.

  • Around Songzanlin Monastery: A quieter location, perfect for those seeking tranquility and monastery views.

Budget for a Lijiang and Shangri-La Trip

A classic private tour of Lijiang and Shangri-La costs around $200–250 USD per person per day. This includes private transport, 4- or 5-star hotels, attraction fees, lunches, and an English-speaking guide. Prices may vary based on travel dates and group size.

Best Lijiang-Shangri-La Tours

Lijiang-Shangri-La Tours with Tiger Leaping Gorge Trekking

Yunnan Travel Guide for Lijiang-Shangri-La Tours