Yunnan's Classics, Done Differently
If you're planning your first trip to Yunnan, Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, and Shangri-La are the timeless classics that belong on every traveler's list. But "classic" doesn't have to mean "cliché." We take Yunnan's most iconic route and infuse it with depth and surprises — turning even the most familiar journey into something far more extraordinary than a standard tour.
We've carefully distilled Yunnan's most beloved destinations and breathtaking highlights into 8 efficiently paced days. But we don't stop at sightseeing. Our itinerary goes beyond the viewpoints, stepping outside conventional tourism to bring you closer to Yunnan's raw nature, living cultures, and the warm-hearted people who call this land home.
This is a sample itinerary designed to inspire. Every journey is fully customizable — we'll tailor the days, activities, and budget to match your interests, pace, and travel style.
| Day | Highlights |
|---|---|
| 1-2 Kunming |
Naigu Stone Forest and Yuantong Temple |
| 3 Dali |
Erhai Lake, flower cake making, and food Tour in Dali Ancient Town |
| 4-5 Lijiang |
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Baisha Village |
| 6-8 Shangri-La |
Tiger Leaping Gorge, Dukezong Ancient Town, Songzanlin Lamasery, Pudacuo National Park |
Tour Map
Tour 'Wow' Points
Witness the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
Soar above the clouds in a cable car and discover a winter wonderland at the snow-capped summit of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
Soak in the Views at Dali's Santorini
Escape to Dali's very own Santorini. Gaze out over the sparkling waters and rolling Cangshan mountains-a picture-perfect moment you'll want to frame and share.
Savor the Soul of Dali on a Plate
Beyond the food tasting, we explore how Dali's unique geography and Bai heritage converge on your plate. From market-fresh ingredients sourced from the mountains and waters to the philosophical depths of the Three-Course Tea, every flavor serves as a direct gateway to understanding the region's natural bounty and centuries-old soul.
Hands-on Flower Cake Baking
Learn to make flower cakes in a scenic garden by Erhai Lake, then enjoy your homemade treats with flower tea in the tranquil surroundings.
Listen to a Naxi Shaman's Stories
Stop at a quiet Naxi village to visit a Shaman's home. Learn some mysterious Naxi characters and Naxi dance. Be impressed by the Naxi people's passion for their lifestyle, homeland, and love.
Visit a Nonpublic Dormitory of Songzanlin Monastery
More than a pilgrimage—this is a dialogue. Away from the tourist crowds, share butter tea and conversation with a Tibetan monk in his private room.
Marvel at the Tiger Leaping Gorge
Check out the Jinsha River's raw power in Tiger Leaping Gorge, carving through a narrow valley around a central rock formation beneath towering mountains.
Optional: Step Back in Time at Yunnan's Hidden Villages
Discover Yunnan's hidden village gems with two optional extensions. Step into Shaxi, the peaceful ancient market town made famous by the hit drama Meet Yourself, where time moves slowly along the old Tea Horse Road. Or explore Donglianhuacun, a 600-year-old Hui village with stunning caravan mansions and rich Islamic culture.
Travelers Love China Highlights
Suggested Itinerary
Here is a suggested itinerary. Feel free to let us know if you'd like to make any changes.
Upon arrival in Kunming, you will be warmly welcomed by our dedicated guide and driver. A comfortable vehicle will be at your service to transport you to the hotel.
Discover the Naigu Stone Forest, where towering, jagged rock formations create a dramatic and peaceful landscape. Escape the crowds and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this otherworldly environment, perfect for tranquility and adventure.
Explore the Yuantong Temple, a 1200-year-old Buddhist temple that offers a glimpse into the diverse cultural heritage of Yunnan Province.
Transfer to Kunming Railway Station for a bullet train to Dali, where a private guide and driver will greet you.
Enjoy the view of Erhai Lake at Dali's Santorini. Learn the art of crafting traditional flower cakes at a local farm with a great view of Changshan Mountain. Savor your handmade, unique cakes with a cup of aromatic flower tea.
Start your tour today with a food adventure. Visit the vibrant North Gate Farmers Market, where you'll weave through stalls of seasonal produce. Savor the morning of Dali: the comforting warmth of Xidoufen (creamy pea porridge) , the irresistible layers of flaky Po-su Baba and the Crispy Fried Tofu .
As we stroll through the ancient streets of Dali Old Town, history comes alive through your guide's storytelling. You'll pause to refresh your palate with artisanal Carved Plums.
Experience the Three-Course Tea, a National Intangible Cultural Heritage ritual. Finally, have lunch in a restaurant with a historic courtyard, offering authentic Bai dishes.
Sit back and enjoy a convenient, private transfer from Dali to Lijiang with your guide and driver.
Discover Lijiang Ancient Town (Dayan Town), a UNESCO site inhabited by the Naxi minority. Stroll cobblestone streets lined with traditional houses.
Explore Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, the holy mountain of the Naxi people. Take a cable car to the Glacier Park at 4,680 meters, where you'll find stunning scenery of forests, meadows and potentially snow-covered peaks.
Experience the Blue Moon Valley, a stunning Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Valley featuring an incredibly blue river winding its way through.
Meet a Naxi shaman(Dongba) to explore their ancient spiritual practices and culture. Learn about the Naxi people's connection to nature, language, and music.
Enjoy a seamless and private transfer from Lijiang to Shangri-La.
Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the deepest and most spectacular canyons. The mighty Jinsha River rushes through this narrow valley, carving a path around a central rock formation.
Following lunch, we'll ascend to Shangri-La, reaching an altitude of 3200 meters.
Enjoy a relaxing walk in the Dukezong town in the afternoon. Begin at the North Gate, where the soul of Tibet greets you in a palette of white, red, black, and gold. Let the fluttering rainbow of five-colored prayer flags awaken your senses to the sacred geometry of Tibetan architecture.
Stop at a Tibetan bracelet workshop. Learn to handcraft a custom Five-Element bracelet. Connect with the earth's energy as you learn the profound lore behind each gemstone, embedding your journey with personal meaning.
As dusk falls, retreat to the century-old Tusi Mansion. Here, at Snow Mountain Kitchen, Tibetan culinary arts come alive. Let your cultural voyage culminate at Sifang Street Square, dancing and spinning hand-in-hand with locals.
Discover the grandeur of Songzanlin Lamasery, Yunnan's largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery. Explore this architectural masterpiece, filled with Buddhist statues and cultural treasures, providing insight into Tibetan spirituality.
Interact with resident Tibetan monks in their dormitory. This unique opportunity offers a deeper understanding of their beliefs and practices, and you may even meet a living Buddha.
Explore the pristine beauty of Pudacuo National Park with its well-preserved ecosystem and stunning lakes - Bita Lake and Shudu Lake.
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 4-star hotels are recommended to enrich your travel experience.
Price includes:
- Private air-conditioned business car with big windows and ample space
- First-class seat on the bullet train from Kunming to Dali
- English-speaking local guides
- Activities, hotels, and meals listed in the itinerary
- A 24/7 helpline is available throughout your trip
Tour code: km-3