20 Days Yunnan Lhasa Xining Xi'an Tour

    Our 20 Days Yunnan Lhasa Xining Xi'an Tour offers an extraordinary exploration across China’s most diverse and culturally rich regions, traveling from the mild landscapes of Yunnan to the sacred heights of Tibet, the vast plateaus of Qinghai, and the historic heart of Xi’an. Beginning in Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang, the tour immerses travelers in breathtaking natural scenery, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and vibrant ethnic cultures, including the Bai, Naxi, and Tibetan peoples, set against snow-capped mountains, ancient towns, and dramatic gorges.

    The adventure continues to Shangri-La and Lhasa, where Tibetan spirituality and highland traditions take center stage. Visits to renowned monasteries such as Songzanlin, Drepung, Sera, and the iconic Potala Palace provide deep insight into Tibetan Buddhism, while scenic train journeys across the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau offer one of the world’s most memorable rail experiences. Carefully paced sightseeing and acclimatization ensure a comfortable and enriching experience at high altitude.

    The final leg of the journey leads to Xining and Xi’an, tracing the historical crossroads of religions and dynasties. From serene monasteries and mosques in Qinghai to the legendary Terracotta Warriors, ancient city walls, and Tang Dynasty landmarks in Xi’an, this tour beautifully blends natural wonders, spiritual heritage, and imperial history, creating a once-in-a-lifetime cultural journey through China’s past and present.

    Code of Tour: CTT0000076
    Length of Tour: 20 Days
    Arrival City: Kunming
    Departure City: Xi'an
    Price of Tour: inquiry

    Highlights

    • Lijiang Old Town, Dali Old Town, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Tiger Leaping Gorge, Dukezong Old Town, Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Terracotta Army, Xi'an City Wall, etc.
    • Impression Lijiang Show
    • Tibetan Family Visiting
    Code of Tour: CTT0000076

    Details of Tour

    • Day 1: Kunming Arrival
    • Day 2: Kunming-Dali
    • Day 3: Dali
    • Day 4: Dali-Lijiang
    • Day 5: Lijiang
    • Day 6: Lijiang
    • Day 7: Lijiang - Shangri-La
    • Day 8: Shangri-La
    • Day 9: Shangri-La - Lhasa
    • Day 10: Lhasa
    • Day 11: Lhasa
    • Day 12: Lhasa-Shigatse-Lhasa
    • Day 13: Lhasa-Xining
    • Day 14: Xining
    • Day 15: Xining
    • Day 16: Xining-Xi'an
    • Day 17: Xi'an
    • Day 18: Xi'an
    • Day 19: Xi'an
    • Day 20: Xi'an Departure

    Day 1: Arrival in Kunming

    Attractions & Activities: free activities

    Accommodation: Kunming

    Meals: None

    Arrive in Kunming, known as the "Spring City" for its pleasant climate year-round. Upon arrival, you will be met by your local guide and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax and recover from your journey or explore the surroundings at your own pace.

    Day 2: Kunming-Dali

    Attractions & Activities: the Stone Forest, Green Lake Park, Flowers and Birds Market

    Accommodation: Dali

    Meals: Breakfast

    After breakfast, visit the spectacular Stone Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring dramatic limestone formations shaped by nature over millions of years. Later, enjoy a leisurely walk around Green Lake Park, followed by a visit to the lively Flowers and Birds Market, where local life comes alive. In the evening, take a high-speed train to Dali

    Day 3: Dali

    Attractions & Activities: the Three Pagodas, Dali Old Town, Foreigner's Street, Ancient City Wall

    Accommodation: Dali

    Meals: Breakfast

    This day, you will explore the highlights of Dali. Visit the iconic Three Pagodas, a symbol of the region’s Buddhist heritage. Continue to Dali Old Town, strolling along its cobbled streets and Foreigner’s Street, once a gathering place for travelers from around the world. Admire the preserved Ancient City Wall, reflecting the city’s long history.

    Day 3: Dali

    Attractions & Activities: the Three Pagodas, Dali Old Town, Foreigner's Street, Ancient City Wall

    Accommodation: Dali

    Meals: Breakfast

    This day, you will explore the highlights of Dali. Visit the iconic Three Pagodas, a symbol of the region’s Buddhist heritage. Continue to Dali Old Town, strolling along its cobbled streets and Foreigner’s Street, once a gathering place for travelers from around the world. Admire the preserved Ancient City Wall, reflecting the city’s long history.

    Day 4: Dali-Lijiang

    Attractions & Activities: the Xizhou Old Town, Zhoucheng Village (with tie-dye experience), Lijiang Old Town, Black Dragon Pool

    Accommodation: Lijiang

    Meals: Breakfast

    Visit Xizhou Old Town, famous for its Bai ethnic architecture and relaxed atmosphere. Continue to Zhoucheng Village, known for traditional Bai tie-dye craftsmanship. In the afternoon, arrive in Lijiang and explore Lijiang Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit Black Dragon Pool for stunning views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, and learn about the unique Dongba culture of the Naxi people.

    Day 5: Lijiang

    Attractions & Activities: the Ganhaizi Meadow, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Glaciar Park, Blue Moon Valley, Impression Lijiang Show, Baisha Old Town, Baisha Murals

    Accommodation: Lijiang

    Meals: Breakfast

    A full day of natural and cultural wonders. Visit Ganhaizi Meadow and ascend Jade Dragon Snow Mountain by cable car to Glacier Park. Descend to admire the turquoise waters of Blue Moon Valley. Enjoy the spectacular Impression Lijiang Ethnic Show, set against a mountain backdrop. Later, visit Baisha Old Town and its ancient Baisha Murals, reflecting early Tibetan and Naxi art influences.

    Day 6: Lijiang

    Attractions & Activities: free activities

    Accommodation: Lijiang

    Meals: Breakfast

    This day is free for leisure. You may relax at the resort, explore Lijiang independently, or choose optional activities such as cycling, tea tasting, or local markets.

    Day 7: Lijiang - Shangri-La

    Attractions & Activities: the First Bend of Yangtze River, Tiger Leaping Gorge, Dukezong Ancient Town, Guishan Hill

    Accommodation: Shangri-La

    Meals: Breakfast

    Travel toward Shangri-La, stopping at the First Bend of the Yangtze River, where the river dramatically changes direction. Continue to Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the world's deepest gorges. Upon arrival in Shangri-La, explore Dukezong Ancient Town and visit Guishan Hill, home to the world's largest prayer wheel.

    Day 8: Shangri-La

    Attractions & Activities: the Songzanlin Monastery,Tibetan Family Visiting, Tibetan Village, Napahai Lake, Yila Grassland

    Accommodation: Shangri-La

    Meals: Breakfast

    Visit the majestic Songzanlin Monastery, the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan. Enjoy a Tibetan family visit and explore a traditional Tibetan village to learn about daily life and customs. Later, visit Napahai Lake and Yila Grassland, offering serene plateau landscapes and seasonal wildlife.

    Day 9: Shangri-La - Lhasa

    Attractions & Activities: Lhasa Arrival, free activities

    Accommodation: Lhasa

    Meals: Breakfast

    Fly to Lhasa. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and rest to acclimatize to the high altitude. The rest of the day is free for leisure. 

    Day 10: Lhasa

    Attractions & Activities: Drepung Temple, Sera Temple, Norbulingka

    Accommodation: Lhasa

    Meals: Breakfast

    Begin exploring the spiritual heart of Tibet. Visit Drepung Monastery, once the largest monastery in the world, followed by Sera Monastery, famous for its monk debate sessions. Continue to Norbulingka, the former summer palace of the Dalai Lamas.

    Day 11: Lhasa

    Attractions & Activities: Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple

    Accommodation: Lhasa

    Meals: Breakfast

    This day's highlights include the iconic Potala Palace, a masterpiece of Tibetan architecture and a symbol of Tibetan Buddhism. Continue to Jokhang Temple, the most sacred temple in Tibet, and enjoy a walk around Barkhor Street, observing pilgrims and traditional Tibetan life.

    Day 12: Lhasa-Shigatse-Lhasa

    Attractions & Activities: Shigatse day trip

    Accommodation: Lhasa

    Meals: Breakfast

    Take a high-speed train from Lhasa to Shigatse, Tibet's second-largest city. Enjoy sightseeing in Shigatse and return to Lhasa for accommodation.

    Day 13: Lhasa-Xining

    Attractions & Activities: train journey

    Accommodation: Xining

    Meals: Breakfast

    Board the scenic Qinghai–Tibet Railway, traveling across vast plateaus, snow mountains, and grasslands. This unforgettable train journey is considered one of the world's most beautiful rail routes.

    Day 14: Xining

    Attractions & Activities: free activities

    Accommodation: Xining

    Meals: Breakfast

    Arrive in Xining and meet your local guide for transfer to the hotel. The rest of the day is free for rest or light exploration.

    Day 15: Xining

    Attractions & Activities: Kumbum Monastery, Dongguan Mosque

    Accommodation: Xining

    Meals: Breakfast

    Visit Kumbum Monastery, one of the most important Tibetan monasteries outside Tibet. Later, visit Dongguan Mosque, showcasing the Islamic heritage of the region and the cultural diversity of Qinghai.

    Day 16: Xining-Xi'an

    Attractions & Activities: Qinghai Provincial Museum, Xi'an Arrival

    Accommodation: Xi'an

    Meals: Breakfast

    Visit the Qinghai Provincial Museum to learn about the region's history and ethnic cultures. Transfer to the airport for your flight to Xi’an (17:55–19:15). Upon arrival, enjoy free time to explore the city in the evening.

    Day 17: Xi'an

    Attractions & Activities: the Terracotta Army, Huaqing Hot Springs

    Accommodation: Xi'an

    Meals: Breakfast

    Visit the world-famous Terracotta Army, the eternal guardian of the emperor Qin Shi Huang. Continue to Huaqing Hot Springs, known for its imperial history and Tang Dynasty romance.

    Day 18: Xi'an

    Attractions & Activities: the Qianling Mausoleum,Tang Paradise

    Accommodation: Xi'an

    Meals: Breakfast

    Explore Qianling Mausoleum, the joint tomb of Emperor Gaozong and Empress Wu Zetian. Later, visit Tang Paradise (Datang Furong Garden), a beautifully designed park showcasing Tang Dynasty culture.

    Day 19: Xi'an

    Attractions & Activities: the Ancient City Wall, Muslim Quarter Streets, Giant Wild Goose Pagoda

    Accommodation: Xi'an

    Meals: Breakfast

    Walk or cycle along the Ancient City Wall, one of the best-preserved city walls in China. Explore the vibrant Muslim Quarter, famous for its street food and culture, and visit the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, a symbol of Xi'an.

    Day 20: Xi'an Departure

    Attractions & Activities: the Daming Palace, Xi'an Departure

    Accommodation: none

    Meals: Breakfast

    Visit Daming Palace National Heritage Park, the former imperial palace of the Tang Dynasty. After that, transfer you to the airport for your departure, marking the end of this unforgettable journey.

    Service Included

    • Accommodation: Four-star hotels throughout the trip;
    • Daily hotel breakfast;
    • Excellent English-speaking tour guide;
    • Transportation in a vehicle for 5-19 people;
    • Yunnan tourism package insurance;
    • Two bottles of mineral water per person per day.

    Service Excluded

    • Lunch and dinner throughout the trip;
    • International transportation for arrival and departure;
    • Chinese visa fees;
    • Personal expenses;
    • Single room supplement.

    Group Tour Service Standards

    • For groups of 2-4 people, there will be an English-speaking tour guide as driver.
    • For groups of 5-10 people, there will be an  English-speaking tour guide and a Chinese driver.

    Price Notice

    Prices during Chinese national holidays are subject to inquiry.

    Itinerary Notice

    To offer you better travel experience, our company reserves the right to adjust the order of the tour itinerary, but the content of the tour will not be reduced. If certain attractions cannot be visited due to force majeure or policy adjustments, our company has the right to cancel or replace them with equivalent attractions, and any fees for replaced attractions will not be refunded.

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