5 Days Lijiang and Shangri-La Tour from Malaysia

Embrace an unforgettable journey through the enchanting landscapes of Lijiang and Shangri-La, two of China’s most iconic destinations. This 6-day tour offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unique Tibetan traditions, providing an immersive experience that showcases the best of Yunnan Province. From the ancient architecture of Lijiang’s Old Town to the breathtaking views of Shangri-La’s snow-capped mountains, this adventure is perfect for travelers seeking to explore the diverse landscapes and vibrant cultures of this remarkable region.

Introduction

Get ready for an amazing adventure through the captivating scenery of Lijiang and Shangri-La, two of China’s most renowned destinations. This 6-day tour provides a wonderful combination of stunning natural beauty, deep cultural heritage, and authentic Tibetan traditions, offering an engaging experience that highlights the finest aspects of Yunnan Province. From the historic architecture found in Lijiang’s Old Town to the awe-inspiring vistas of Shangri-La’s snow-covered peaks, this journey is ideal for those eager to discover the rich landscapes and lively cultures of this extraordinary region.

Highlights:

  • Explore Lijiang Old Town: Stroll through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, where you can admire traditional Naxi architecture, vibrant markets, and charming cobblestone streets.
  • Visit the Black Dragon Pool: Take in the stunning views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain reflected in the crystal-clear waters of Black Dragon Pool, surrounded by lush parks and historical pavilions.
  • Discover the Ancient Baisha Village: Experience the traditional culture of the Naxi people and explore the ancient murals and local handicrafts in this picturesque village.
  • Journey to Shangri-La: Travel to Shangri-La, also known as Zhongdian, and marvel at the magnificent views of the Tibetan Plateau and its idyllic landscapes.
  • Explore Songzanlin Monastery: Visit the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan, where you can learn about Tibetan culture and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area.
  • Trek in Meili Snow Mountain: Experience the breathtaking scenery and natural wonders of Meili Snow Mountain, including stunning glaciers and pristine lakes.
  • Cultural Immersion: Engage with local Tibetan communities, sample traditional cuisine, and participate in cultural activities that provide insight into the unique lifestyle of the region.
  • Enjoy Local Cuisine: Delight your taste buds with the flavors of Yunnan, featuring a variety of dishes that reflect the region’s diverse culinary heritage.

Brief Itinerary

  • Day 1: Lijiang Arrival
  • Day 2: Lijiang
  • Day 3: Lijiang-100KM-Tiger Leaping Gorge-100KM-Shangri-La
  • Day 4: Shangri-La
  • Day 5: Shangri-La Depature

Google Map

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 Lijiang Arrival

Sightseeing and Activities:Lijiang Arrival
Accommodation: Lijiang
Meals: None

  • Lijiang Arrival
    • Arrive at Lijiang airport , meet your local guide and driver, then drive to Lijiang hotel for checking in.

Day 2 Lijiang

Sightseeing and Activities:Ganhaizi Meadow, Baishui River, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Spruce Meadow, Impression Lijang Ethnic Show, Baisha Old Town and Baisha Murals
Accommodation: Lijiang
Meals: Breakfast

  • Morning Exploration
    • Begin your day with a drive of approximately 30 kilometers to Ganhaizi Meadow (3100M). Here, you’ll hop on a sightseeing bus to enjoy a brief tour along the Baishuihe River and Blue Moon Valley.
    • Next, take the chairlift to ascend Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and then continue your journey by cable car to Spruce Meadow. In Spruce Meadow (3200M), you’ll have the opportunity to hike for about an hour through the pristine original forest.
  • Afternoon Activities
    • After enjoying your lunch, you may choose to attend the Impression Lijiang Ethnic Show (Tickets: 190 Yuan, not included), staged at Ganhaizi Meadow (3100M).
    • This vibrant cultural performance highlights the unique traditions and lifestyles of the Naxi, Yi, and Bai ethnic groups. The show is set in an outdoor theater within Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Park, situated at 3500m, with the magnificent mountain serving as a striking backdrop. The production has been creatively orchestrated by acclaimed directors Zhang Yimou, Fan Yue, and Wang Chaoge, featuring a cast of over 500 performers alongside several horses.
    • Following the show, you’ll have the pleasure of wandering through Baisha Old Town, a picturesque traditional Yunnan village.
    • Here, you can visit the Baisha Mural, an extraordinary work of art that dates back around 600 years and is recognized as part of the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage since 1997.

Day 3 Lijiang-100KM-Tiger Leaping Gorge-100KM-Shangri-La

Sightseeing and Activities:the First Bend of Yangtze River, Iron Chain Bridge, Red Army’s Long March Memorial Monument, Tiger Leaping Gorge, Dukezong Ancient Town, Guishan Hill
Accommodation:Shangri-La
Meals:Breakfast

  • Journey to the First Bend of the Yangtze River
    • Your adventure begins with a drive of approximately 60 kilometers from Lijiang to the First Bend of the Yangtze River, renowned for its stunning gorge scenery.
    • During this leg of the trip, you’ll visit the Iron Chain Bridge and the Red Army’s Long March Memorial Monument located in Shigu Old Town.
    • The town, known as Stone Drum, derives its name from a large cylindrical marble tablet that resembles a drum. As you travel, take in the magnificent views of the Lijiang valley, characterized by expansive wheat fields and drying haystacks.
  • Exploration of the Tiger Leaping Gorge
    • Your journey continues as you explore the Tiger Leaping Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world. This remarkable site features 34 rapids of the Yangtze River, known locally as Jinsha, where gold can often be found flowing within its waters.
  • Observing Tibetan Culture
    • Next, you will arrive in an area rich in Tibetan culture, where landscapes are adorned with barley fields and yaks roam freely across the valleys. Stroll through Dukezong Ancient Town, a vital hub in the Ancient Tea Horse Trade Caravan route that connected Yunnan to Tibet and India.
    • Ascend to the top of Guishan Hill, also referred to as Tortoise Hill, where you’ll find the world’s largest Prayer Wheel. From this vantage point, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Shangri-La County and the historic Dukezong Ancient Town.

Day 4 Shangri-La

Sightseeing and Activities:Ganden Sumtseling Monastery, Shudu Lake in Pudacuo National Park, visit a Tibetan’s family
Accommodation: Shangri-La
Meals: Breakfast

  • Morning visit to Ganden Sumtseling Monastery
    • Start your day with a visit to the Ganden Sumtseling Monastery, the largest Tibetan monastery in Yunnan. Known as Songzanlin Monastery, it is often referred to as the “Little Potala Palace” due to its traditional architecture and enchanting ambiance that evoke a sense of mystery.
  • Experiencing Local Tibetan Life
    • At noon, you will have the opportunity to engage with a Tibetan family and gain insights into their daily life. During this visit, you can savor traditional Tibetan home-cooked dishes, including yak meat and cheese.
  • Afternoon at Shudu Lake
    • Following your cultural experience, you’ll head to the serene Shudu Lake, located within Pudacuo National Park. This park is renowned for being one of the most biologically diverse areas in the world. Although it covers only 0.7% of China’s total land area, it boasts over 20% of the nation’s plant species, approximately one-third of its mammal and bird species, and nearly 100 endangered species.

Day 5 Lijiang Departure

Sightseeing and Activities:Departure from Lijiang
Accommodation: None
Meals: Breakfast

Free at leisure before be transferred to airport for the departure flight. Service ends.

Recommended Hotels

Destination 5 Star 4 Star 3 Star
Lijiang InterContinental Lijiang Wangfu Hotel Louiwailou Hotel
Tiger Leaping Gorge / / Half-way Guesthouse
Shangri-La Shangri-La Hotel Zhaxidele Hotel Shenqu Hotel

Service Included:

  • Admission fees for all of the sightseeing spots listed in the itinerary;
  • Meals as listed in the itinerary;
  • Hotels as listed in the itinerary;
  • Private English-speaking tour guide;
  • Private vehicle for transfers & sightseeing with skilled driver;
  • Service charge & government taxes;
  • Luggage transfers between airports and hotels.

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 accident insurance;
  • All optional programs.