Tour Highlights
UNESCO Natural & Cultural Wonders: Walk through the geological labyrinth of the Stone Forest and wander the cobblestone waterways of Lijiang Ancient Town
Sacred Alpine Peaks & Gorges: Marvel at the glaciated peaks of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and stand beside the raging rapids of Tiger Leaping Gorge
Authentic Ethnic Heritage: Discover Bai courtyard architecture in Xizhou, ancient Naxi wall art in Baisha Village, and Tibetan traditions at Ganden Songzanlin Monastery
Pristine Plateau Waters: Enjoy scenic strolls along the shores of Erhai Lake and explore the tranquil alpine lakes of Pudacuo National Park
Seamless Scenic Travel: Experience effortless intercity travel featuring a rapid bullet train ride from Kunming to Dali and comfortable private vehicles through the highlands
Day 1 Arrival in Kunming
Day 2 Kunming | The Stone Forest
Day 3 Kunming to Dali by Bullet Train | Three Pagodas & Erhai Lake
The Erhai Lake is reputed as the pearl on plateau for its charming scenery, and it is one of the seven biggest fresh water lakes in China.
Take a walking tour of the Dali Old Town to capture its charm with narrow cobbled streets and traditional stone architecture.
Good to Know: One way bullet train from Kunming to Dali takes about two hours. There are direct flights from Kunming to Dali (about 50 minutes).
Day 4 Dali to Lijiang | Bai Village & Old Town of Lijiang
Day 5 Lijiang | Jade Dragon Snow Mountain & Baisha Murals
The Baisha Village is one of the oldest towns in Lijiang as well as one of the earliest communities of the Naxi ethnic group. The 44 pieces of ancient murals there were carved in the early Ming Dynasty.
The Old Town of Lijiang (UNESCO) is one of the best-preserved ancient towns in China and is famous for its distinctive Naxi culture and ancient buildings.
Day 6 Lijiang to Shangri-La | Tiger Leaping Gorge
Day 7 Shangri-La | Songzanlin Monastery & Pudacuo National Park
The Pudacuo National Park is notable as the first national park in China to meet International Union for Conservation of Nature standards. It incorporates the Bita Lake and the Duhu Scenic Area, and holds the stunning view of three parallel rivers and dense deciduous forests.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How does altitude acclimatization work across this Yunnan itinerary?
A: The route follows a natural gradual ascent: starting from Kunming (approx. 1,890m), continuing through Dali (1,970m) and Lijiang (2,400m), before reaching Shangri-La (approx. 3,160m), providing ideal progressive acclimatization.
Q: Is hiking through Tiger Leaping Gorge strenuous?
A: This itinerary covers the classic Upper Tiger Leaping Gorge scenic area with well-paved trails, railed viewing platforms, and optional escalators, making it accessible and safe for general travelers
Q: What should I pack for the varying climates between Kunming and Shangri-La?
A: Due to significant temperature drops at higher elevations and mountain areas like Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Shangri-La, packing layered clothing—including a windproof, warm fleece or down jacket—is strongly recommended.
Q: Can warm clothing or oxygen be rented during the mountain excursions?
A: Yes, rental warm down coats and portable oxygen canisters are readily available at Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Pudacuo National Park service centers.
- Private tour guide
- Private air-conditioned car or coach
- Land transfers between airport or train station and hotel
- First entrance tickets as listed
- Chinese lunch as listed
- Centrally located hotels with breakfast
- Domestic flight ticket with tax as listed
- Service charge & government taxes
- International flight
- Personal expenses such as laundry, drinks, phone bills, optional activities
- Tips for guides and drivers
- China Visa
- Travel insurance