【Flowers Bloom in Northwest Yunnan】Lijiang | Thousand Lakes Mountain Secret Realm | Shangri-La | Bottomless Lake | Pudacuo | Tacheng | Geladan

Activity Description

▷Meeting Time: All day on the first day of each tour

▷Meeting Location: Designated hotel in Lijiang City (please mention "Flowers Bloom in Northwest Yunnan" + your name for check-in)

▷Tour Type: Small group tour of 2-12 people

▷Suitable for: Healthy travel enthusiasts aged 6-70

▷Tour Leader: Travel concierge/driver (information sent to the group chat two days prior to departure)

【Child Price Information】

Children under 1.2 meters tall do not occupy a bed (sharing a bed with an adult), free admission, free breakfast, includes a seat on the vehicle, insurance, and complimentary items. The program includes interactive activities;

Children under 12 years old and taller require an additional ticket and breakfast fee;

If a bed is required, a bed fee (including breakfast) will apply;

Special Note: Children do not occupy a bed (sharing a bed with adults). However, if you are traveling with one adult and one child, to avoid disturbing you and other guests in the same room, the child must occupy a bed and pay the bed fee (including breakfast).

▷Special Note: Rooms are calculated based on 2 people per room. If there is an odd number of people, please pay the room supplement: 500 RMB/person in off-season; 750 RMB/person during May Day holiday.

Ticket Information

If you hold special identification such as a military officer's ID, senior citizen's ID, disability certificate, tour guide's ID, or student ID, please present it to the driver/tour leader in advance. Since the tour agency offers discounted tickets, the refund will be based on the tour agency's discounted price, not the listed price of the scenic area. Thank you for your understanding. (Specific discount policies are subject to the actual charges of the scenic area)

Supplies and Equipment List

1.Documents: ID card, discount cards (student ID, senior citizen ID, military officer ID, disability ID, etc.)

2.Backpacks and Luggage: Suitcase under 24 inches, 18L outdoor backpack (for hiking/flower viewing), small bag (for carrying props for flower viewing and photography)

3.Clothing: Both light and warm clothing (large temperature difference between day and night in western Yunnan, windy in spring, April-May-June), windproof jacket/light jacket, quick-drying clothes, floral dress/light-colored clothing (for taking photos while flower viewing), sneakers/hiking shoes, slippers, etc.

4.Sun Protection: Sunscreen (SPF50+, PA++++), sunglasses, sun hat, sun mask, sun-protective clothing (strong sunshine in western Yunnan in spring, April-May-June), moisturizing skin care products, etc.

5.Altitude Sickness Protection: Altitude sickness medication, oral glucose solution (essential in Shangri-La, especially important in spring at high altitudes)

6.Toiletries: Toothpaste, toothbrush, travel-sized shampoo/shower gel (provided by the hotel; bring your own if you don't like hotel toiletries), facial cleanser, etc.

7.Electronic Equipment: Mobile phone, power bank, charger, camera (including charger, spare battery, memory card), tripod (essential for photographing flower fields/snow-capped mountains/lake views), headphones, etc.

Medications: Motion sickness medication, cold medicine, gastrointestinal medicine, and other personal medications; consider bringing allergy medication (high pollen count in spring).

8.Food: Chocolate, beef jerky, nuts, energy bars (for hiking/long-distance driving to replenish energy)

9.Others: Folding umbrella/raincoat (frequent spring rains in western Yunnan during April, May, and June), tissues, thermos, face mask.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Lijiang from various locations nationwide → Airport/Train Station pick-up in Lijiang → Hotel check-in → Free time

Suggested Accommodation: 4-star luxury hotel in Lijiang (based on online reviews);

Meals: On your own; Driving distance: 25km

Distance: Approx. 0.5h

Today, guests will arrive in Lijiang by plane or train. Our team will pick you up and transfer you to your hotel in the city center. Upon arrival, please check in at the front desk. Free time after check-in. Our staff will contact you later. Please be mindful of your personal safety and belongings when out and about.

Important Notes:

1. Hotel check-in time is after 2:00 PM. If you arrive earlier and there are available rooms, you can check in directly. Alternatively, you can leave your luggage at the front desk and enjoy free time.

2. We offer a free 24-hour airport/train station pick-up service. There will be a waiting time of approximately 30 minutes. Please inform customer service of your flight at least 2 days in advance; otherwise, it will be considered a waiver of the service.

3. The distance from Lijiang Airport to the meeting hotel is approximately 25km, a 40-minute drive. The distance from Lijiang Railway Station to the meeting hotel is approximately 10km, a 20-minute drive.

Lijiang Travel Guide:

1. Lijiang Old Town: Lijiang Old Town is actually composed of three ancient towns. The first is [Dayan Ancient Town], with its small bridges and flowing water, built against Lion Mountain and facing Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. It is hailed as a "World Heritage Site." Famous attractions within the ancient town include Sifang Street, Mu's Residence, Yuhe Square, and Wangu Tower. It's about a 3-5km walk from the hotel.

2. The second is [Shuhe Ancient Town], a well-preserved important market town on the Ancient Tea Horse Road, with a history of over 1000 years. With over 300 years of history, it is renowned for its ancient architecture, clear springs, and profound cultural heritage. The core scenic area includes Sifang Street, Qinglong Bridge, Feihua Chushui (Flying Flowers Touching Water), and Jiuding Longtan (Nine Dragon Pool), among other attractions. The hotel is 7km by taxi.

3. The third option is [Baisha Ancient Town], a newly popular tourist destination in Lijiang. It was the earliest political and cultural center of the Naxi people and the closest ancient town to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. The hotel is about 10km by taxi. The air in the ancient town is filled with the aroma of coffee.

Day 2 Lijiang → Qianhu Mountain Hiking (Leijing Forest/Lamudongcuo Lake/Rhododendron Sea) → Dukezong Ancient Town

Suggested Accommodation: Shangri-La 4-star luxury hotel (based on online reviews)

Meals: Breakfast included; lunch and dinner at your own expense

Driving distance: 195km, approx. 2.5h

Hiking distance: approx. 9-12km, approx. 5-6h

After breakfast, depart from Lijiang and drive approximately 1.5 hours to Xiaozhongdian, Shangri-La. Upon arrival at the hiking starting point, begin your Qianhu Mountain Hiking adventure. Qianhu Mountain, known as "Lamudongcuo" in Tibetan, meaning "Thousand Lakes of the Goddess," is located in Xiaozhongdian, Shangri-La, and is part of the core area of ​​the Three Parallel Rivers World Natural Heritage Site. Here, numerous alpine lakes are scattered, some as round as mirrors, some deep and tranquil, some hidden among rhododendron bushes, and some like strings of pearls, each with its own unique beauty. The lakeside is covered with yellow, red, and white rhododendrons. In late spring and early summer, when they bloom, the entire valley is transformed into a dreamlike, vibrant sea of ​​rhododendrons. The hiking route is: entrance registration point → starting point → first pasture burned forest (Leijingmu Forest) → 1000 Lakes (Lamudongcuo Lake) → rhododendron sea and return via the same route. The round trip is approximately 9-12 kilometers, taking about 5-6 hours. It is considered beginner level and suitable for outdoor enthusiasts to experience the beauty of this high-altitude paradise.

After the hike, check into the Shangri-La Hotel. In the evening, you can stroll around Dukezong Ancient Town and spin the world's largest prayer wheel in Guishan Park to pray for yourself and your family!

Special Note: Qianhu Mountain has a high altitude (3450-4060 meters) and requires a local guide to enter. You will need to prepare your own packed lunch for the day.

Day 3 Shangri-La → Lake Wudihu (Bottomless Lake) Circumnavigation Hiking → Lakeside Afternoon Tea → Return to Shangri-La

Suggested Accommodation: 4-star luxury hotel in Shangri-La (based on online reviews)

Meals: Breakfast included; lunch and dinner at your own expense

Driving Distance: 218km, Driving Time: Approx. 5 hours

Hiking Distance: Approx. 3-4km, Duration: Approx. 1-2 hours

After breakfast, depart from Shangri-La for Lake Wudihu, nestled deep within the snow-capped mountains. The journey traverses high-altitude pastures and pristine forests, arriving at this sacred lake known as the last hidden gem of Northwest Yunnan. Embark on a gentle, 1-2 hour circumnavigation hike along the lake, passing moss-covered primeval forests, prayer flag arrays, solitary trees by the lake, and open meadows. The entire trail is comfortable and easy, allowing you to immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery of clear lake water, snow-capped mountains, and tranquil forests.

After your hike, enjoy a special afternoon tea by the lake. Sit by the water, savoring your tea and snacks while taking in the panoramic views of the blue sky, lake, forest, and distant mountains. Experience the unique tranquility and healing power of this highland paradise. After the tour, return to Shangri-La by bus, concluding this peaceful and beautiful retreat.

Special Note: Please prepare your own lunch for the day.

Day 4 Shangri-La → Pudacuo National Park → Yila Grassland Tour → Qibie Village → Tacheng

Suggested Accommodation: Comfortable hotel/guesthouse in Tacheng

Meals: Breakfast included; lunch and dinner at your own expense

Driving Distance: 172km, Driving Time: Approx. 3.5h

After breakfast, head to Pudacuo National Park. A 30-minute drive will take you to the Pudacuo 5A scenic area—China's first national park. Upon entering the park, transfer to a shuttle bus, passing through an ecological ethnic village and highland pastures. Stroll along the boardwalk to visit Shudu Lake. We will walk 3.3km along the lakeside boardwalk, admiring the clear blue water under the blue sky and white clouds. The lake is surrounded by dense forests and highland pastures with herds of cattle and sheep, full of the charm of Tibetan life. Afterwards, take the shuttle bus to Bita Lake and stroll 2km along the boardwalk to explore the Bita Lake scenic area. Bita Lake is known as the Pearl of the Plateau, its most captivating features being its pagoda-shaped hills and its clear, tranquil waters. In the early morning, the lake water is as black as ink, reflecting the surrounding peaks; at noon, the water is as blue as jade, revealing boundless beauty amidst the clouds and ripples.

After lunch, we depart for Yila Grassland, taking a loop tour along the way. We'll admire the vast grasslands and distant mountains, dotted with grazing cattle and sheep. Our journey continues to Qibie Village on the banks of the Jinsha River—one of "China's Most Beautiful Ancient Villages." Stone-paved roads, earthen houses, and a thousand-year-old ginkgo tree stand guard for millennia. Here, Naxi and Tibetan cultures blend quietly, as if time has stood still. We'll spend the night in Tacheng, where the altitude drops to 2000 meters, ensuring a good night's sleep.

Altitude Adaptation Tips:

① Pudacuo National Park, at an altitude of 3500-4200 meters, is the highest point of the entire trip; proceed with extreme caution.

② Tonight, the altitude drops sharply to 2000 meters, significantly alleviating altitude sickness symptoms.

③ This is the best time to shower—low altitude, high oxygen levels.

Day 5: Tacheng → Geladan Grassland Hiking → First Bend of the Yangtze River → Shigu Town

Suggested Accommodation: Comfortable Hotel/Guesthouse in Shigu Town

Meals: Breakfast included; lunch and dinner at your own expense

Driving Distance: 206km, Driving Time: Approx. 5 hours

Hiking: Grassland Stroll

Depart from Tacheng in the morning. For those interested in visiting the Yunnan Golden Monkey National Park, the driver can take you there (entrance fee at your own expense). Search for the Yunnan golden monkeys, known as the "Snow Mountain Spirits," in the primeval forest, watch them leap lightly through the trees, experience the agility and gentleness of these national treasures up close, and listen to the purest sounds of nature.

Afterwards, head to Geladan Grassland, known as the "Heavenly Grassland," and stroll through the alpine meadows, watching wildflowers bloom, clouds drift by, and the mountains stretch into the distance. Enjoy the vastness and healing power of this cloud-top pasture.

Continue to the First Bend of the Yangtze River to admire the magnificent bend formed by the Jinsha River, where the river meanders amidst verdant mountains, appreciating the wonders of nature. Finally, we will travel to Shigu Town, check into our hotel, and experience the rustic charm of the ancient town and the historical atmosphere of the Tea Horse Road, concluding the day's itinerary.

Day 6: Shigu Town → Jiushijiulongtan (Ninety-Nine Dragon Pools) → Rhododendron Sea → Primeval Forest → Glacial Lakes → Lijiang (Disband)

Suggested Accommodation: None Meals: Breakfast included; lunch and dinner at your own expense

Driving Distance: Approx. 156km Driving Time: Approx. 3.5h

Hiking Distance: Approx. 4.5km Duration: Approx. 3.5h

After breakfast, depart from Shigu Town and head to the hidden gem of Jiushijiulongtan (Ninety-Nine Dragon Pools) nestled deep within Laojun Mountain. Embark on a hiking journey accompanied by alpine rhododendrons and primeval forests. Wander through the vast and tranquil primeval forest, where ancient trees reach for the sky, streams murmur, and the air is crisp and refreshing. During the rhododendron season, the mountainsides are ablaze with vibrant colors, like clouds and rosy dawn. Along the way, explore the numerous glacial lakes, their crystal-clear waters reflecting the snow-capped mountains, forests, and clouds, creating a scene of ethereal beauty. Stroll peacefully through this last pristine paradise in western Yunnan, experiencing the beauty of nature and the spirit of the mountains. After the hike, return to Lijiang to complete the tour and conclude your journey through the hidden gems of Northwest Yunnan. Return home safely, carrying with you memories of mountains, seas, and flower fields.

Friendly Reminder:

1. If you are returning via Lijiang Railway Station, we recommend booking a high-speed train or regular train departing after 7:00 PM on the same day.

2. If you are returning via Lijiang Airport, we recommend booking a flight departing after 8:00 PM on the same day.

Booking Notes

1. As the organizer and executor of the activity, our company reserves the right to use all photos, videos, and other materials taken during the trip.

2. This activity involves outdoor hiking, long-distance travel, and thrill rides. Participants must ensure they are in good health and fit for travel. Those with high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, infectious diseases, respiratory diseases, mental illness, severe anemia, those recovering from major surgery, those with mobility impairments, and pregnant women are not permitted to participate. Those registering on behalf of others must accurately verify the health status of the person being registered for to ensure they meet the requirements of this tour.

3. According to relevant tourism laws, minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a guardian who is responsible for their care throughout the tour.

4. This activity does not accept unregistered participants (including unregistered infants). For the health of others and the experience of the activity, pets are not allowed.

5. Please provide accurate and complete information as required by the system when registering to avoid booking errors that may affect your trip. You will be solely responsible for any losses caused by incorrect information provided.

6. Room assignments will be based on accommodation availability. Room sharing is generally for same-sex group members. If you require a room with family/friends, please inform staff after registration. If you are registering alone and require a single room, please contact staff to confirm availability. If available, the single room supplement will be borne by the traveler.

7. If you hold special documents that may qualify for discounts, such as military officer ID, press card, disability certificate, senior citizen card, student ID, or medical certificate, please contact staff within one day of registration and submit the relevant documents. Discounted tickets are issued by the travel agency and will be refunded based on the travel agency's discounted price, not the attraction's listed price.

8. Some attractions may require advance ticket reservations using the traveler's personal information (the identification document must match the ticket document). If an attraction is unavailable due to sold-out tickets or other objective reasons, our company will arrange alternative attractions for you, with refunds or additional charges as needed.

9. Due to weather and seasonal changes, the scenery of the attractions mentioned in the itinerary may not be consistent with what is shown in the activity description. By registering, tourists acknowledge and understand this.

10. The tour guide shown on the activity description page may not be the final actual tour leader. The company reserves the right to make adjustments based on the actual situation and activity arrangements. By registering, tourists acknowledge and understand this.

11. During the actual trip, with the consent of the guests, the tour leader may make appropriate adjustments to the itinerary based on weather, traffic, and other conditions (such as adjusting the order of attractions or changing the meeting time) to ensure the smooth progress of the trip.

12. In the event of force majeure, such as traffic delays, strikes, weather, aircraft or train malfunctions, flight cancellations or changes in flight times, airport closures, scenic spot closures, or events that the travel agency or its service providers could not avoid despite exercising reasonable care, the company will make every effort to assist with itinerary changes. Any price difference will be refunded or charged accordingly.

13. If the activity is cancelled before departure or midway due to force majeure, the remaining itinerary will be cancelled, as stipulated in the "Travel Contract." The activity fee will be refunded to the original payment account after deducting any non-refundable payments already made to the service providers.

14. If a tourist withdraws from the activity midway for personal reasons, a departure agreement must be signed. All safety responsibilities and expenses incurred after leaving the group will be borne by the tourist. During the period of separation, any unused and refundable expenses included in the tour fee will be refunded to the tourist, with the actual refund amount calculated based on the travel agency's discounted price. Expenses already paid to the service providers that are non-refundable will not be refunded to the tourist.

15. During the activity itinerary, there may be shopping venues not arranged by our company in scenic spots, restaurants, rest areas, etc. We remind you to consume rationally and obtain receipts. Any disputes arising from consumption will be resolved between you and the merchants selling the goods.

16. A travel accident insurance policy is provided upon registration, effective during the activity period. Insurance claim hotline: See policy.

17.Lijiang Municipal Government Service Hotline: 0888-12345. Service Agreement

After registering for and paying for the activity, if a participant requests a refund or change due to personal reasons (due to force majeure "including but not limited to natural and social causes, such as natural disasters, war, terrorist activities, riots, strikes, public emergencies, traffic delays, strikes, coups, road blockages, vehicle breakdowns, car malfunctions, attraction closures, flight cancellations, local government actions, etc."), the following refund and change policy will apply (Note: Group airfare is non-refundable, only taxes will be refunded; accommodation fees, meal fees, and entrance fees, if tickets have been issued before departure, are non-refundable).

1. Full refund for cancellations made 5 days or more before departure;

2. Refund for cancellations made 3 to 4 days before departure (inclusive) after deducting 30% of the activity fee;

3. Refund for cancellations made 2 to 3 days before departure (inclusive) after deducting 50% of the activity fee;

4. Refund for cancellations made 1 to 2 days before departure (inclusive) after deducting 70% of the activity fee;

5. Refund for cancellations made on the day of departure (the day of departure);

6. Refund for cancellations made during the trip only for unused entrance fees and accommodations.