Day 1: Kunming Arrival
Attractions & Activities: Green Lake Park, Nanqiang Pedestrian Street
Accommodation: Kunming
Meals: None
Upon arrival at Kunming, our guide will greet you at Kunming Changshui International Airport and transfer you comfortably to your hotel for check-in. Kunming is the "Spring City" of China, famous for its mild climate and blooming flowers all year round.
After a short rest, begin your journey at Green Lake Park, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. Surrounded by willow trees and elegant pavilions, the lake presents different scenery in every season. Stroll along the scenic pathways, watch locals practicing tai chi or dancing, and soak in the relaxed lifestyle of Kunming.
Later, head to Nanqiang Pedestrian Street, a lively food and cultural district where you can taste authentic Yunnan snacks such as Crossing-the-Bridge Rice Noodles and grilled local delicacies. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere while experiencing the charm and hospitality of the Spring City.
Day 2: Kunming–Dali
Attractions & Activities: Stone Forest, Dali Old Town
Accommodation: Dali
Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, travel to the world-famous Stone Forest (Shilin Scenic Area), a UNESCO-recognized geological wonder formed over 270 million years ago. Spend about three hours exploring this remarkable karst landscape, where towering limestone pillars resemble a petrified forest. Wander through winding paths between dramatic rock formations, tranquil lakes, waterfalls, and hidden caves, and marvel at nature’s artistic masterpiece.
In the afternoon, return to Kunming and board a high-speed train to Dali, enjoying the scenic countryside along the way.
Upon arrival, explore Dali Old Town, once the capital of the ancient Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms. Walk beneath its ancient city gates and along cobbled streets lined with traditional Bai-style houses. With Cangshan Mountain as its backdrop and Erhai Lake nearby, the old town offers a romantic and historic ambiance.
Day 3: Dali
Attractions & Activities: Three Pagodas, Shuanglang Ancient Town, Dali Santorini (Ideal State)
Accommodation: Dali
Meals: Breakfast
Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, the symbol of Dali with a history of over 1,000 years. The elegant pagodas stand majestically against the backdrop of Cangshan Mountain. Explore the temple grounds and enjoy panoramic views of Erhai Lake from above.
Next, travel to Shuanglang Ancient Town, a picturesque lakeside village on the northeastern shore of Erhai Lake. Surrounded by gentle curves of the lake and facing two small islands, Shuanglang offers stunning water views and a tranquil atmosphere. Stroll along the waterfront and admire the blend of traditional Bai architecture and artistic guesthouses.
In the afternoon, visit Dali Ideal State, often called the “Santorini of China.” With white-washed buildings cascading toward the lake and panoramic views of Erhai and Cangshan, this romantic destination is perfect for photography and relaxing with afternoon tea.
Day 4: Dali–Lijiang
Attractions & Activities: Fengyangyi Village, Flower Sea Photography, Xizhou Town, Zhoucheng Village (tie-dye experience), Lijiang Old Town
Accommodation: Lijiang
Meals: Breakfast
This morning, revisit the charm of Dali before heading to Fengyangyi Village, an ancient stop along the historic Tea Horse Road and filming location of the popular drama Meet Yourself. The quiet lanes and traditional courtyards preserve the authentic rural atmosphere of the Bai people.
Continue to a Flower Sea Photography Base, where vibrant blossoms create a dreamlike setting. Dress in traditional ethnic costumes for memorable photos amidst colorful fields and mountain scenery.
Later, explore Xizhou Ancient Town, renowned for its well-preserved Bai residences and intricate architectural details. Nearly 80% of the buildings are historic structures, many over a century old. Then visit Zhoucheng Village, famous as the “Home to Bai Tie-Dye.” Experience this traditional craft firsthand and learn about the symbolism of its blue-and-white patterns. The white symbolises auspiciousness while the blue represents hope, simplicity and sincerity.
In the evening, arrive in Lijiang Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 800 years of history. Wander through its maze of cobbled streets, flowing canals, and wooden houses reflecting Ming and Qing dynasty styles, immersed in the unique & rich culture and history of the Naxi people.
Day 5: Lijiang
Attractions & Activities: Ganhaizi Meadow, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Glacier Park Cableway, Blue Moon Valley, Impression Lijiang Show, Baisha Ancient Town & Baisha Murals
Accommodation: Lijiang
Meals: Breakfast
This day, you will explore the magnificent Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, the sacred mountain of the Naxi people. Take the Glacier Park Cableway to ascend to high altitude and witness breathtaking snow-capped peaks and dramatic alpine scenery.
Visit Blue Moon Valley, known for its turquoise waters shimmering under the sunlight. The crescent-shaped valley looks like a blue moon embedded at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
You may also enjoy the spectacular outdoor performance Impression Lijiang Show, directed by renowned filmmaker Zhang Yimou, showcasing local ethnic culture against the backdrop of the snow mountain. Later, explore Baisha Ancient Town, the earliest settlement of the Naxi people, and admire the ancient Baisha Murals, blending Tibetan, Han, and Naxi artistic influences.
Day 6: Lijiang–Lugu Lake
Attractions & Activities: Lining Eighteen Bends, Lugu Lake Viewing Platform, Lake Tour, Bonfire Party
Accommodation: Lugu Lake
Meals: Breakfast
Drive to the enchanting Lugu Lake, stopping at the dramatic Lining Eighteen Bends, a spectacular winding route that stretches approximately 20 kilometers with an elevation drop of over a thousand meters, making it an excellent spot for appreciating breathtaking views.
Upon arrival, enjoy panoramic views from the Lugu Lake Viewing Platform, where the crystal-clear lake mirrors the surrounding mountains. Take a scenic drive around the lake and check into your lakeside hotel.
In the evening, join a traditional Mosuo Bonfire Party with local Mosuo people, enjoying the vibrant music and dance of this unique matriarchal society, whose matriarchal clan customs have been passed down for over 1,500 years.
Day 7: Lugu Lake – Shangri-La
Attractions & Activities: Sunrise at Lugu Lake, Boat Ride to Liwubi Island
Accommodation: Shangri-La
Meals: Breakfast
Wake early to witness the magical sunrise over Lugu Lake. Then, take the distinctive & beautiful traditional “pig trough boat” -- on which, there are Mosuo people rowing -- to Liwubi Island, surrounded by pristine forests and tranquil waters. Walk through the woods and listen to the stories of the Mosuo people about the legend of Gemu Goddess Mountain.
After exploring and learning about Mosuo legends, drive to the mystical land of Shangri-La, where Tibetan culture and plateau landscapes await.
Day 8: Shangri-La
Attractions & Activities: Songzanlin Monastery, Potatson National Park
Accommodation: Shangri-La
Meals: Breakfast
Visit the Songzanlin Monastery, which stands as the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan. Also known as the Ganden Sumtseling Monastery or Guihua Monastery, it belongs to the Yellow Hat (Gelug) Sect of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery’s architecture mirrors that of the Potala Palace in Lhasa, earning it the nickname “Little Potala Palace”. Explore its mysterious halls and discover precious Tibetan Buddhist cultural relics, including gilded statues, palm-leaf scripts, thangka (religious tapestries) and golden lamps. The monastery also serves as a Tibetan Art Museum.
Later, explore Potatson National Park, part of the Three Parallel Rivers World Heritage Site. Discover alpine lakes, dense forests, and diverse wildlife in this magnificent pristine plateau ecosystem.
Day 9: Shangri-La – Feilai Temple
Attractions & Activities: Benzilan Town, First Bend of Jinsha River, Dongzhulin Monastery, Baima Snow Mountain
Accommodation: Feilai Temple
Meals: Breakfast
Drive 4-5 hours to Deqin County (at an altitude of 3400 m) through the breathtaking Baima Snow Mountain Nature Reserve, enjoying the ever-changing highland scenery on the road. Stop at Benzilan Town and the dramatic First Bend of the Jinsha (Yangtze) River.
After traversing the mountain ranges, you will make a short stop and have lunch at Benzilan Town. Take some shots of the First Bend of Jinsha River, Dongzhulin Monastery and Baima (white horse) Snow Mountain. The view along the way is fantastic with different kinds of trees, streams down the valley, prayer flags and stupas, as well as Tibetan villages.
Finally, Arrive at Feilai Temple, the best viewpoint for the sacred Meili Snow Mountain.
Day 10: Feilai Temple – Shangri-La
Attractions & Activities: Feilai Temple, Sunrise of Meili Snow Mountain, Balagezong Scenic Area
Accommodation: Shangri-La
Meals: Breakfast
Rise early in the morning to witness the golden sunrise illuminating Meili Snow Mountain, a sacred pilgrimage site. Visit Feilai Temple.
Drive back toward Shangri-La, visiting Balagezong. The Balagezong Scenic Area, part of the Three Parallel Rivers World Natural Heritage Site, is known for its dramatic landscapes, including snow peaks, tranquil lakes, dense forests and picturesque meadows. The region offers a perfect mix of outdoor adventure and cultural immersion. During the tour, you’ll explore the Balagezong Grand Canyon, visit Shika Snow Mountain, and experience local Tibetan culture, all while soaking in the stunning natural beauty of the area.
Day 11: Shangri-La – Lijiang
Attractions & Activities: Dukezong Ancient Town, First Bend of Yangtze River, Tiger Leaping Gorge
Accommodation: Lijiang
Meals: Breakfast
Explore Dukezong Ancient Town, also known as “Moonlight City”, and spin the world’s largest prayer wheel to pray for your loved ones.
Then, drive towards Tiger Leaping Gorge, passing by the First Bay of the Yangtze River. Stop for a while to enjoy the magnificent views of the bay and then continue along Dianzang Road to the world's famous canyon Tiger Leaping Gorge, which is one of the deepest and most spectacular gorges in the world, with its famous Tiger Leaping Gorge Upper Trail rated as one of the "Top 10 Classic Trekking Routes in the world".
Finally, return to Lijiang for overnight stay.
Day 12: Lijiang Departure
Attractions & Activities: None
Accommodation: None
Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, transfer your to the airport or high-speed railway station for your onward journey.
Your unforgettable Yunnan adventure comes to an end.
