9 Days Kunming-Dali-Shaxi-Shangri La-Lijiang Tour

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable adventure in Yunnan Province, where the essence of China’s rich culture and breathtaking landscapes await. Let the vibrant city of Kunming be your gateway to...

Code of Tour: YET0000059038

Length of Travel: 9 Day

Destinations of Tour: Kunming-Dali-Shaxi-Shangri La-Lijiang

Departure City: Kunming

Price of Tour: Request

Type of Tour:

Features of Tour: Ethnic culture tours Tea culture tours

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Embark on an unforgettable adventure in Yunnan Province, where the essence of China’s rich culture and breathtaking landscapes await. Let the vibrant city of Kunming be your gateway to discovery, where ancient architecture meets modern charm. Wander through the majestic Stone Forest, a natural wonder that will leave you awestruck. Explore the traditional Bai minority villages, such as Dali, where colorful silk fabrics and intricate crafts will transport you to a bygone era. And get lost in the tranquil streets of Lijiang old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that embodies the very essence of Yunnan’s mystique. With Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, and Shangri-La as the most iconic destinations in Yunnan, this province promises to be an unforgettable journey that will leave you enchanted and inspired.

• Cultural Immersion
  • Experience the unique blend of traditional and modern China in Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang
  • Visit ancient temples, monasteries, and mosques, and learn about the local minority cultures
  • Explore traditional villages and markets, where you can see traditional crafts and way of life
• Natural Beauty
  • Marvel at the stunning natural scenery of Yunnan Province, including mountains, rivers, and lakes
  • Hike to the top of a mountain or explore a scenic valley
  • Take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside
• History and Architecture
  • Visit ancient cities and towns, including Dali, Shaxi, and Lijiang
  • Explore historic landmarks, such as temples, fortresses, and bridges
  • See traditional architecture, including Tibetan-style Buddhist monasteries and Naxi-style wooden houses
• Food and Drink
  • Try local specialties, such as Dali’s famous boiled fish in chili oil and Lijiang’s green tea
  • Sample traditional snacks and drinks, such as Yunnan coffee and Tibetan butter tea
  • Enjoy a home-cooked meal with a local family
• Adventure
  • Take a scenic drive through the mountains and countryside
  • Go hiking or trekking in a beautiful national park or nature reserve
  • Take a boat ride on a lake or river
• Relaxation
  • Enjoy a relaxing soak in hot springs or a rejuvenating massage
  • Take a stroll around a peaceful lake or park
  • Watch the sunset over the mountains or enjoy a starry night sky

Brief Itinerary

• Day 1: Kunming Arrival
• Day 2: Kunming
• Day 3: Kunming-Dali
• Day 4: Dali – Shaxi
• Day 5: Shaxi – Tiger Leaping Gorge – Shangri-La
• Day 6: Shangri-La
• Day 7: Shangri-La – Lijiang
• Day 8: Lijiang
• Day 9: Lijiang Departure

Google Map

Detailed Itinerary

• Explore the Wonders of Nature
  • Following breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to the iconic Stone Forest, renowned as the ‘First Wonder of the World’. Be mesmerized by the natural beauty of its intricate stone formations, and step into a world of wonder.
• Immerse in Ethnic Culture
  • Next, visit Qixing Village of the Sani Ethnic People, where you’ll be treated to a kaleidoscope of colorful costumes and rich cultural traditions. Listen to the poignant love story of Ashima, shared by the village’s elderly residents, and gain insight into the history and customs of this unique minority group.
• A Day in Kunming
  • After the tour, return to Kunming and visit the bustling Flowers and Birds Market in the city center. Later, head back to your hotel for some rest before experiencing the serene atmosphere of Rutsan Tea House.
• Tea Art and Culture
  • In the late afternoon, indulge in a tea art and culture lesson at Rutsan Tea House, where you can sample a variety of Puer tea and Dianhong Black tea.
  • Take in the tranquility of this elegant setting and appreciate the nuances of traditional Chinese tea culture.

• Arrival in Dali
  • Start your day with a high-speed train journey to Dali, a scenic city nestled in the western part of Yunnan Province. Upon arrival, your driver and tour guide will greet you and escort you to the Three Pagodas in Chongshen Monastery, a historic site dating back over 1,800 years.
  • Situated at the foot of Cangshan Mountain and facing Erhai Lake, this architectural wonder comprises three ancient pagodas forming a harmonious triangle.
• Mountainous Landscape
  • The ecological corridor of Dali is nestled at the foot of Cangshan Mountain, which rises majestically above the Erhai Lake.
  • The mountain’s lush greenery and rolling hills create a breathtaking backdrop for the city of Dali, while the lake’s tranquil waters provide a haven for aquatic life.
  • As a biodiversity hotspot, the ecological corridor of Dali is home to a wide range of flora and fauna.
  • The region is inhabited by over 200 species of birds, including migratory birds from as far as Siberia and Europe. The area is also home to numerous endangered species, such as the golden monkey and the snow leopard.
  • The ecological corridor is not only a natural wonder but also a cultural treasure trove.
  • The region is rich in history and culture, with ancient monasteries, temples, and traditional villages scattered throughout.
  • The local Bai people have lived in harmony with nature for centuries, preserving their unique customs and traditions.
• Immerse in Bai Culture
  • Upon disembarking, visit Xizhou Town to delve into the traditional architecture and customs of the Bai people.
  • Savor their fragrant Three-Course Tea and explore their unique cultural heritage. Stop by Zhoucheng Village and the Bai people’s Tie-dying cloth workshop, where you can acquire special souvenirs with a touch of Bai ethnic flair.
• Free Time in Dali Ancient Town
  • In the evening, enjoy some free time to explore Dali Ancient Town on your own. Wander along Foreigner Street and mingle with locals as you take in the relaxed atmosphere.
  • For a panoramic view of Erhai Lake, climb up to the Ancient City Wall of Dali.

• Yangtze River Adventure
  • Begin your day with a scenic drive to the  First Bend on the Yangtze River, where you’ll be awestruck by the breathtaking gorge scenery.
  • Stop at the Iron Chain Bridge and pay respects at the Red Army’s Long March Memorial Monument in Shigu Old Town.
• Stone Drum Town
  • Next, visit the charming town of Stone Drum, named after its namesake – a large, cylindrical marble tablet resembling a drum.
  • Take in the picturesque views of the Lijiang valley, where wheat fields and drying haystacks stretch as far as the eye can see.
• Tiger Leaping Gorge
  • Later, head to Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the deepest gorges in the world.
  • With 34 rapids of the Yangtze River flowing through it, this area is known as Jinsha, where gold can be found in the river.
• Shangri-La Unveiled
  • In the afternoon, journey to Shangri-La, formerly known as Zhongdian.
  • This idyllic destination is renowned for its stunning landscapes and Tibetan cultural heritage.
  • As you arrive, you’ll find yourself surrounded by rolling barley fields and yaks grazing in the valleys, immersing yourself in the tranquil atmosphere of this Tibetan paradise.

• Morning Monastery Visit
  • Start your day with a visit to Ganden Sumtseling Monastery, the largest Tibetan monastery in Yunnan.
  • This magnificent monastery is often referred to as the “Little Potala Palace” due to its striking resemblance to the traditional style of architecture and mysterious atmosphere.
• Lakes of Serenity
  • Next, head to the tranquil Bita Lake & Shudu Lake in Pudacuo National Park, a region renowned for its incredible biodiversity. Located in one of the most biologically diverse areas of the world, this park is home to an astonishing 20% of China’s plant species, 30% of its mammal and bird species, and nearly 100 endangered species.
• Monastery Stopover
  • On your way back from Pudacuo National Park, make a stop at Dabao Monastery.
• Unforgettable Afternoon
  • In the afternoon, explore Dukezong Ancient Town, a significant stop on the Ancient Tea-horse Trade Caravan route from Yunnan to Tibet and India.
  • Take a leisurely walk up Guishan Hill or Tortoise Hill, where you’ll discover the world’s largest Prayer Wheel and be treated to a breathtaking panoramic view of Shangri-La County and Dukezong Ancient Town.

• A Journey to Lijiang
• Embark on a journey to Lijiang, a charming old town nestled in the heart of Yunnan Province’s Naxi Ethnic Minority region.
• This well-preserved ancient city is a testament to the rich culture and heritage of the Naxi people.
• The Town of Big Ink Slab
  • Located 2,400 meters above sea level, Lijiang Old Town is surrounded by majestic mountains and lush forests, earning it the nickname “Town of Big Ink Slab” (Dayanzhen).
  • The town’s unique landscape, with its fertile fields, crystal-clear waters, and tree-covered mountains, is reminiscent of a jade ink slab.
• Black Dragon Pool and Jade Spring Park
  • Visit the iconic Black Dragon Pool (Heilongtan) and Jade Spring (Yuquan) Park, the main source of the Yushui River that flows through the Old Town.
  • According to local legend, the springs are believed to be protected by gods, who reside in the chestnut woods and behind carved doors. The water from the springs forms a stunning dragon pool, which eventually flows into the Yuhe River, nourishing the town.
• Shuhe Old Town
  • Next, explore Shuhe Old Town, a significant stop on the ancient Tea-horse Road that connects Yunnan to Tibet.
  • This bustling town is famous for its skilled cobblers, whose leather products are renowned for their exceptional quality and are highly sought after along the Tea-horse Road.
  • The Naxi people’s transition from a nomadic lifestyle to farming and trade can be attributed to their involvement in this thriving commercial route.

• Sunrise Serenity
  • Begin your day by taking in the breathtaking sunrise over the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Lijiang Ancient Town.
  • Then, embark on a 30km drive to Ganhaizi Meadow (3100M), where you’ll board a sightseeing bus for a scenic ride along the Baishuihe River and Blue Moone Value
• Mountain Adventure
  • From Ganhaizi Meadow, take the chairlift to ascend Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
  • The cableway will operate according to the mountain’s conditions, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
  • After reaching the summit, take a leisurely 1-hour hike through the original forest in Spruce Meadow (3200M), immersing yourself in nature’s splendor.
• A Naturalist’s Haven
  • Following lunch, visit Yuhu Village, the former residence of Joseph Rock, an Austrian-American botanist and explorer who lived in the region from 1922 to 1949.
  • Rock was not only a naturalist and photographer but also introduced Lijiang ethnic culture to the Western world.
• Enchanting Baisha Old Town
  • Stroll through Baisha Old Town, an alluring traditional Naxi-style old town. Be sure to visit the ancient Baisha Mural, dating back over 600 years, which is part of the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage since 1997.

Recommended Hotels

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.