8-Day Yunnan Discovery: Kunming, Dali, Lijiang & Shangri-La

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8 days (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English

Experience the best of Yunnan at a relaxed and comfortable pace, combining breathtaking landscapes, ancient towns, local food, and authentic cultural experiences in one carefully designed private journey.

From the dramatic Stone Forest near Kunming and the romantic shores of Erhai Lake, to the charming old towns of Dali and Lijiang, every day offers something different. Taste local Bai cuisine, learn to make traditional flower cakes, experience the Three-Course Tea Ceremony, and discover the unique traditions of the Naxi and Tibetan communities.

The journey continues into the spectacular mountains of Shangri-La, with a visit to Tiger Leaping Gorge, Songzanlin Monastery, and the pristine landscapes of Pudacuo National Park.

With private transportation, a dedicated guide, and a flexible pace, this tour allows you to explore Yunnan beyond the usual tourist highlights while enjoying the comfort and convenience of a private trip.

What's Included

English-speaking tour guide
All entrance tickets as noted in the tour's itinerary
Lunch (Optional[7])
Lunch
Accommodation(3-star hotel)
Private air-conditioned car
High-speed train ticket
Gratuities
Dinner

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

We will be waiting for you in the hotel lobby

Itinerary

Duration: 8 days (approximately)
    Day 1

    Arrival in Kunming & City Highlights

    1 stop
  • 1
    Kunming

    Welcome to Kunming, the capital of Yunnan Province! Upon arrival, your private guide will meet you in the airport arrival hall and transfer you comfortably to your hotel in downtown Kunming by private, air-conditioned vehicle. After some time to relax and settle in, begin your Yunnan adventure with a visit to the Golden Temple, a historic Taoist temple set on the lush slopes of Mingfeng Hill. Despite its name, the temple is made of bronze rather than gold. Its golden appearance in the sunlight is what gave it its famous name. Continue to Green Lake Park, one of Kunming’s most popular local spots. Take a leisurely stroll around the lake, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, and experience a glimpse of everyday life in this laid-back city.

    6 hours • Admission ticket free
    • Day 2

    Kunming | Explore the Dramatic Stone Forest

    1 stop
  • 2
    Stone Forest

    Head into the spectacular Stone Forest (Shilin), one of Yunnan’s most famous natural landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Formed over millions of years by erosion of ancient limestone, the area is filled with towering, needle-like rock formations that resemble a vast stone forest. Wander through the dramatic formations, follow winding paths, and discover hidden viewpoints along the way. Take your time to enjoy this unique landscape and experience one of Yunnan’s most impressive natural wonders.

    6 hours • Admission ticket included
    • Day 3

    Kunming to Dali | Discover the Romantic Side of Dali

    1 stop
  • 3
    Erhai Lake

    Take a scenic bullet train from Kunming to Dali, then begin your journey through this charming lakeside destination. Enjoy beautiful views of Erhai Lake from Dali’s Santorini, a picturesque spot overlooking the water. Later, visit a local farm surrounded by stunning views of Cangshan Mountain, where you’ll learn how to make traditional Yunnan flower cakes. Relax with a cup of fragrant flower tea and enjoy the freshly made cakes you’ve crafted yourself — a simple and memorable taste of Dali.

    6 hours • Admission ticket free
    • Day 4

    Dali to Lijiang | Taste the Flavors and Soul of Dali

    1 stop
  • 4
    Dali

    Begin your morning with a taste of authentic Bai cuisine at the lively North Gate Farmers’ Market. Wander among stalls filled with fresh local produce and discover some of Dali’s favorite breakfast treats, from comforting Xidoufen (creamy pea porridge) to flaky Po-su Baba and crispy fried tofu. Continue into the charming streets of Dali Old Town, where your guide will bring the city’s history and Bai culture to life. Along the way, sample carved plums, a traditional local specialty. Experience the elegant Three-Course Tea Ceremony, a National Intangible Cultural Heritage tradition, before enjoying an authentic Bai-style lunch in a historic courtyard restaurant. After lunch, sit back and relax on a private transfer from Dali to Lijiang.

    6 hours • Admission ticket free
    • Day 5

    Lijiang | Discover the Charm of an Ancient Naxi Town

    1 stop
  • 5
    Lijiang

    Spend a full day exploring Lijiang, a beautiful historic city nestled at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Known for its charming waterways, traditional architecture, and rich Naxi culture, Lijiang is one of Yunnan’s most atmospheric destinations. Wander through the winding cobblestone lanes of Lijiang Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire its traditional wooden houses, stone bridges, canals, and lively local shops. Visit Black Dragon Pool, famous for its peaceful gardens and beautiful views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

    6 hours • Admission ticket free
    • Day 6

    Lijiang to Shangri-La | Journey Through Tiger Leaping Gorge

    1 stop
  • 6
    Tiger Leaping Gorge (Hutiao Xia)

    Leave Lijiang behind and enjoy a comfortable private transfer to Shangri-La, with a spectacular stop along the way. Visit Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the deepest and most dramatic river canyons in the world. Watch the powerful Jinsha River thunder through the narrow gorge, surrounded by towering mountains and breathtaking scenery. After lunch, continue your journey to Shangri-La, located at around 3,200 meters above sea level. In the afternoon, take a relaxed stroll through Dukezong Ancient Town, the historic heart of Shangri-La. Begin at the North Gate and wander through its atmospheric Tibetan-style streets, traditional whitewashed houses, colorful prayer flags, and distinctive architecture. End the day with a visit to the town’s famous Giant Prayer Wheel, a peaceful place to take in the spiritual atmosphere and panoramic views over Shangri-La.

    6 hours • Admission ticket included
    • Day 7

    Shangri-La | Discover Tibetan Culture and Alpine Landscapes

    1 stop
  • 7
    Songzanlin Monastery

    Begin the day with a visit to Songzanlin Monastery, the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan. Explore its impressive Tibetan-style architecture, ornate prayer halls, Buddhist statues, and centuries-old religious traditions. Continue to Pudacuo National Park, one of Shangri-La’s most beautiful natural areas. Walk through its pristine alpine landscape, surrounded by forests, meadows, and crystal-clear lakes. Enjoy the peaceful scenery of Shudu Lake and Bita Lake, with plenty of time to take in the fresh mountain air and tranquil atmosphere. Return to Shangri-La in the afternoon and enjoy some free time to relax or explore the old town at your own pace.

    6 hours • Admission ticket included
    • Day 8

    Day 8 | Departure from Shangri-La

    1 stop
  • 8
    Shangri-La County

    Enjoy a relaxed morning in Shangri-La before your private transfer to the airport for your onward journey. Direct flights are available from Shangri-La to Kunming, Chengdu, Guangzhou, and Lhasa, making it easy to continue your China adventure or connect to your international flight. We wish you a safe and pleasant journey!

    6 hours • Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • This product is not suitable for wheelchair users and is not wheelchair accessible.
Supplied by Real North Adventure

Tags

Nature and Wildlife Tours
Multi-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private and Luxury
Private Sightseeing Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Car Tours

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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