Wander This Land on Foot
Lijiang and Shangri-La are Yunnan's premier destinations for adventurers, embodying the spirit Joseph Rock pioneered. Their stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage provide an unforgettable journey.
This 6-day itinerary will lead you off the beaten path to discover the hidden gems of nature. Experience the perfect blend of adventure, natural beauty and cultural immersion.
Utilize our complimentary itinerary planning service to design your own Lijiang and Shangri-La adventure.
Suggested Yunnan Adventure Tour
| Day | Highlights |
|---|---|
| 1-2 Lijiang |
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Yuhu Village |
| 3-6 Shangri-La |
Tiger Leaping Gorge Trekking, Songzanlin, Napahai Cycling, Qianhu Hiking |
Lijiang to Shangri-La Adventure Tour Map
Tour 'Wow' Points
Hike Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
Skip the tourist crowds and enjoy the exclusive views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain that only hikers can experience by trekking through the bushes and wading across a little stream.
Cycle around Napahai
Cycle 1.5 hours through Napahai's varied landscapes. Enjoy smooth biking, conquer challenges, and end with stunning water views at Waxihai Cafe.
Conquer the Tiger Leaping Gorge
Trek through Tiger Leaping Gorge and awaken by the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain rising majestically to your right and the Jinsha River winding its way through the valley below.
Experience the Songzanlin Monastery
Discover the spiritual heart of the region at Songzanlin Monastery and participate in a blessing ceremony. Gain insight into local customs and the significance of this monastery.
Venture into Qianhu Mountains
Hike through the Qianhu Mountains' diverse landscapes, visit a herder's home, and witness the beauty of the Sanbi Sea and Black Sea.
Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family's best-rated service across trusted platforms.
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Les splendeurs du Yunnan
J'ai passé un merveilleux séjour dans le Yunnan, grace à China Highlights et ses guides chaleureux et très professionnels ! à Kunming, Lulu m'a fait découvrir la sublime forêt de pierres Shilin et découvrir les trésors d'une dégustation de thé Pu'er. Dans les environs de Dali, Alice m'a concocté un délicieux tour des villages où le drama "Meet Yourself" a été tourné. J'en ai été très émue et je suis tombée sous le charme du lac Er Hai qui en est le c?ur ? J'ai également appris beaucoup sur la minorité Bai et l'art du Tie and dye. à Lijiang, c'est Jack qui m'a gentiment fait découvrir la vieille ville et les villages d'autres minorités locales. Il m'a aussi accompagnée dans la somptueuse Blue Moon Valley et ses lacs d'eau bleu turquoise, où les futurs mariés se précipitent pour faire des photos dans un cadre magnifique ! more
Jun 2025, Compass20024947963
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12 day trip to Kunming, Dali and Lijiang
Our tour guide cum driver for Kunming, is Jack Lee. He took good care of us, especially when there is any descending or ascending hike during the trip. He gave excellent suggestion for dinner and even show us the authentic way to eat the food. We had a fantastic 6 days in Dali area. Our guide, 王立婷, is from the Bai ethnic group. She is very knowledgeable in the custom and history of Yunnan as well as the different Ethnic group of the area. We learn a lot of interesting things from her. If I were to go to Dali again, I will definitely look for her. The last stretch of our trip, is 3 days in Lijiang with our guide , 和绍春. He is from the Naxi Ethnic group. He shared with us his knowledge of his people and also how to handle high altitiude. Luckily for us, we had him to look out for us as some of us were unwell during and after the ascent of Yulong snow mountain. Last but not least, our driver, 卞师傅，spent 9 days with us and is a safe driver and a friendly person. more
Apr 2025, Boon Keow L
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Lijiang and Kunming
Thanks to Camillia Jiang from China Highlights who created our itinerary we had a wonderful holiday in Lijiang and Kunming. Our guides in Lijiang Alice and Lulu in kunming were wonderful in taking care of our needs from the word go and made our holidays so much better. more
Apr 2025, Chng S
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Itinerary Quick Look
Here is a suggested itinerary. We are happy to customize a tour to suit your interests.
Welcome to Lijiang! Our guide will greet you in the arrival hall and transfer you to the hotel, helping with check-in and making your stay comfortable.
Meet your private guide and enjoy a pleasant transfer to the picturesque Yuhu Village.
Troll through the Yuhu Village, visit Rock's Former Home, where Joseph Rock resided for 27 years, and immerse yourself in his captivating tales of adventure.
Hike from Yuhu Lake to the Sansi River, sourced from snow-capped mountains. Explore Bahe, known as "Frog's Pool," and ascend to Ganheba's vast meadow with a dry stream. Enjoy the Milk River's milky appearance and panoramic views of snow-capped mountains. Conclude the hiking at the Snow Sea, transitioning from a frozen look to vibrant blue waters in the rainy season.
The hike covers approximately 12.5 km (7.7 miles) with a 600-meter (2,000 feet) ascent and typically takes around 5½ hours.
Return to your hotel in the charming Lijiang Ancient Town after the excursion.
Enjoy a seamless and private transfer(with driver only) from Lijiang to Tiger Leaping Gorge.
Meet your private guide at the Ticket office of the Tiger Leaping Gorge and embark on a 1-hour hike between Tea Horse Guest House and Half-Way Guest House to admire the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain towering on your right and marvel at the Jinsha River snaking its way through the canyon floor.
Relax and recharge with a local meal in a picturesque setting.
Drive to Shangri-La on the new highway and be amazed by the beautiful scenery and another Chinese engineering marvel.
Explore the largest Tibetan Buddhist Lamasery in Yunnan, Songzanlin. Delve into the heart of local Tibetan belief, shaped by the pure surroundings and inspiring a sense of awe.
Ascend the hill behind the Lamasery for a unique view and possibly encounter locals performing rituals. Learn about the Weisang ceremony at the pagoda, where you can tie a prayer flag and offer prayers towards Songzanlin Monastery.
Transfer to Hamugu on the eastern side of Napahai and meet your bikes.
Embark on a 1.5-hour cycling adventure through the scenic Napahai, experiencing a variety of landscapes. The initial stretch is flat and straightforward, while the second portion offers a bumpier challenge. The third and final segment rewards you with panoramic views of the Road on the Water, leading you to the charming Waxihai Cafe(coffee will be at your expense).
After the ride, return to your Shangri-La hotel.
Enjoy a scenic transfer to the Qianhu Mountains hiking starting point near Jisha Forest Farm, nestled at approximately 3,500 meters.
Hike through the Pristine Virgin Forest and picturesque Alpine Pastures, immersing yourself in the local life by visiting a herder's home.
Continue the adventure to the breathtaking Sanbi Sea and the Black Sea, both situated at a staggering 4,000 meters above sea level. As you retrace your steps, witness the stark contrast of the Burned Forest, offering a unique perspective on nature's resilience.
Return to the hiking starting point, carrying unforgettable memories and back to Shangri-La.
Have some free time to stroll through Dukezong Ancient Town before a private transfer to the airport or train station for your onward journey.
Hotel Selection
—the Icing on the Cake
Boutique hotels are recommended to enrich your travel experience.
Price includes:
- Private air-conditioned business car with big windows and ample space
- English-speaking local guides
- Activities, hotels, and meals listed in the itinerary
- A 24/7 helpline is available throughout your trip
Tour code: lj-4