Panoramic Tour of Western Yunnan, China | Kunming + Dali + Shangri-La, etc

[Trip Details]

▷ Group Type: Premium small group (2–12 participants)

▷ Schedule: Group tours depart every Saturday (all-day gathering); private tours depart daily

▷ Meeting/Dismissal Points: Meet in Kunming, end in Lijiang (includes 24-hour free airport/train station transfers)

▷ Suitable For: Travel enthusiasts aged 6–70 in good health

▷ Tour Leader: Travel concierge and driver (details sent via SMS two days prior to departure)

▷ Booking Note: Please check with customer service regarding availability before booking.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kunming (Airport/Train Station Pickup) → Hotel Check-in → Leisure Time

▷ Accommodation: Selected comfortable hotel in Kunming Meals: On your own

▷ Distance: 30 km; Drive time: 1 hour

Please make your own travel arrangements (flight or high-speed train) to arrive in Kunming today. Upon arrival, our transfer team will meet you and escort you to the designated hotel for check-in; please check in at the front desk using your name. You are free to explore the city after checking in, and our staff will contact you later. Please be mindful of your personal safety and the security of your belongings while out.

Friendly Reminders:

Standard hotel check-in time is from 14:00 onwards. If you arrive early and a room is available, you may check in immediately; otherwise, you can leave your luggage at the front desk and enjoy some free time.

The distance from Kunming Airport to the hotel is approximately 30 km (about a 50-minute drive); from Kunming South Railway Station to the hotel is approximately 30 km (about a 50-minute drive); and from Kunming Railway Station to the hotel is approximately 10 km (about a 20-minute drive).

【Kunming Travel Guide】

The Yunnan Military Academy and Yunnan University are both located near Green Lake Park (Cuihu Park); admission is free (advance reservation required), and the surrounding area offers many delicious, long-established eateries;

Kunming Old Street: The best-preserved traditional street in the city center, retaining the most authentic historical character; it is hailed as "Kunming's last historic district";

Golden Horse and Jade Rooster Archways (Jinma Biji Archways): One of Kunming's most iconic landmarks and a symbol of the city; just beyond lies Nanping Pedestrian Street, the city's busiest shopping district;

Dianchi Lake Haigeng Dam: A scenic promenade famous for its expansive lake views, spectacular flocks of black-headed gulls, and the "Sleeping Beauty" silhouette of the Western Hills; the best time to see the gulls is from November to March;

Yunnan Ethnic Village: A theme park showcasing Yunnan's diverse ethnic cultures, featuring replicas of traditional villages representing the province's 25 ethnic minorities; admission is 90 RMB (half-price for students and seniors; free for children under 1.2 meters);

Dounan Flower Market: Asia's largest fresh flower trading market, known as the "Flower Capital of Asia"—a paradise for flower lovers;

Kunming Jacarandas: Peak bloom is from April 25 to May 8. Key locations include Jiaochang Middle Road (the famous "tunnel" of flowers), Panlong River (reflections on the water), Chuncheng Road (great for portraits against low walls), and Tiepi Lane (a lesser-known spot featuring red brick walls paired with jacarandas).

Day 2: Kunming → Shuanglang (Erhai Lake) → Xizhou → Panxi Village "S-Bend" → Dali Ancient City

▷ Accommodation: Selected comfortable hotel in Dali

▷ Meals: Breakfast included; other meals on a Dutch-treat (AA) basis

▷ Distance: 350 km; ▷ Drive time: 4 hours

After breakfast, we depart for Dali—a city renowned for its "Wind, Flower, Snow, and Moon" scenery. Traveling via the new Chuxiong-Dali Expressway, we arrive in about four hours at Shuanglang Ancient Town, the premier destination for enjoying the landscapes of the Cangshan Mountains and Erhai Lake. It is said that the Cangshan Mountains are an inkless painting spanning millennia, and Erhai Lake is a stringless zither playing for eternity; upon arrival, the breathtaking scenery unfolds before you—where water and sky merge, azure waves stretch endlessly, and flocks of gulls and ducks gather, creating a scene that feels like a heavenly paradise on earth.

After lunch, we head to Xizhou Ancient Town to admire the pastoral scenery, visit the famous "Corner Building" (Zhuanjiao Lou), and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the town. Next, we visit the Erhai Ecological Corridor—currently Dali's hottest "viral" destination and a must-visit spot. We will walk to the Panxi Village "S-Bend" for photo opportunities or cycle along the corridor to take in the boundless beauty of Erhai Lake, ensuring a truly memorable experience.

With its pristine blue skies and the crystal-clear waters of Erhai Lake, this place offers a romantic atmosphere rivaling that of the Aegean—no need to travel all the way there. In the afternoon, make your way along the lakeside road to Dali Ancient City to check into your hotel or guesthouse.

Spend the evening strolling along the ancient city’s cobblestone streets. Experience the enduring charm of the historic City Gate Tower, Wuhua Tower, and Foreigner’s Street—landmarks that have thrived for a thousand years. Head to Renmin Road to immerse yourself in the authentic, everyday life of the local Bai people and simply enjoy the relaxed, leisurely pace.

Note: Bicycle rentals by Erhai Lake cost approximately 30–50 RMB per bike.

Day 3: Dali → Tiger Leaping Gorge → Haba Snow Mountain Viewpoint → Xiaozhongdian → Dukezong Ancient Town

▷ Accommodation: Selected comfortable hotel in Shangri-La City

▷ Meals: Breakfast included; main meals are Dutch treat (shared cost)

▷ Distance: 290 km; ▷ Drive time: 3–4 hours

Today, we head to Shangri-La—the place famously described in the novel Lost Horizon. After breakfast, we depart from Dali and drive approximately 2.5 hours via expressway to reach Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the world's three deepest gorges. Here, the Jinsha River surges between Haba Snow Mountain and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, creating crashing waves and a thunderous roar; the rushing waters resemble a ferocious, howling tiger.

We will visit the "Upper Tiger Leaping Gorge" section, which offers the most magnificent scenery. Compared to other parts of the gorge, this section is easier and safer to navigate without sacrificing any of the grandeur or awe-inspiring scale. Exploring the gorge requires hiking from the parking lot down to the banks of the Jinsha River at the canyon floor; visitors may choose to hike the entire way or—at their own expense—use the scenic area's escalator.

After touring Tiger Leaping Gorge and having lunch in the town, we will head to Shangri-La. En route, we will pass the Haba Snow Mountain viewing platform—located near an Yi ethnic village—to admire the highland "tortoise-shell" terraced fields and take in distant views of the magnificent Haba Snow Mountain and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

After a break for photos, we will travel along National Highway 214 via Xiaozhongdian, enjoying the scenery of highland pastures along the way. Upon arriving in Shangri-La city and checking into our hotel, we will visit Dukezong Ancient Town. You will have free time to stroll through the town—a historic hub on the ancient Tea Horse Road—visit the Red Army Long March Museum, and walk around Sifang Street. You can also climb Guishan Park to spin the world’s largest prayer wheel (a Guinness World Record holder) and offer prayers for the safety and good fortune of your family and friends, as well as for national peace and prosperity. Tashi Delek (Good luck/Blessings).

For dinner, you are free to dine anywhere in the ancient town. Alternatively, you may choose to visit a local Tibetan family for an authentic "Tusi" (Chieftain-style) banquet. There, you can enjoy yak meat hotpot, highland barley wine, and butter tea, while watching enthusiastic Khampa men and beautiful Tibetan women perform the lively Guozhuang dance.

Optional Activities (At Your Own Expense):

Tiger Leaping Gorge escalator: 70 RMB/person for a round trip; 30 RMB/person for a one-way ticket down; 50 RMB/person for a one-way ticket up.

Tibetan "Tusi" Banquet: Estimated price 120–160 RMB/person.

Day 4: Shangri-La → Pudacuo National Park → Napa Lake (Yila Grassland) → Lijiang

▷ Accommodation: Selected comfortable guesthouse in Lijiang City

▷ Meals: Breakfast included; main meals on a Dutch-treat (AA) basis

▷ Distance: 200 km | Drive time: 2–3 hours

After breakfast, we head to Pudacuo National Park (a 5A-rated scenic area), a drive of approximately 30 minutes. Upon arrival, we transfer to the park's internal shuttle bus, passing by an ethnic eco-village and highland pastures, before strolling along the boardwalks to explore Shudu Lake.

We will take a leisurely 3.3 km walk along the lakeside boardwalk, admiring the crystal-clear, azure waters set against a backdrop of blue skies and white clouds. The lake is surrounded by dense forests and highland pastures dotted with herds of cattle and sheep, offering a glimpse into the authentic lifestyle of the Tibetan region. Afterward, we take the shuttle bus to Bitahai Lake for a 2 km walk along the boardwalk. Known as the "Pearl of the Plateau," Bitahai is most captivating for its pagoda-shaped hill and its serene, limpid waters. In the early morning, the water is dark as ink, reflecting the surrounding peaks; by midday, it turns a jade-like blue, revealing an exquisite beauty amidst the interplay of clouds and ripples.

After visiting Pudacuo National Park, you will head to Yila Grassland (Napahai)—the filming location for the show Si Teng. Here, amidst grasslands, lakes, pastures, and herds of cattle and sheep, you can immerse yourself in the quintessential scenery of the Tibetan region.

Next, you will travel to Lijiang, known as the "Pearl of the Plateau," arriving and checking into your hotel around dusk. In the evening, you are free to explore the Old Town at your leisure. Stroll along the polished stone-paved streets—much like the ancient horse caravan travelers—and let the bustling atmosphere of Sifang Street wash away your fatigue and the dust of the journey. Relax and encounter the true beauty of Lijiang; a single glance is all it takes to fall in love with the place.

▷ Note:

If time permits, you may choose to visit the Songcheng Scenic Area at your own expense (approx. 240–280 RMB per person) to watch the spectacular large-scale live performance Lijiang Eternal Love. The stunning visual effects guarantee an unforgettable experience.

Day 5: Lijiang → Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Scenic Area → Spruce Meadow (Yunshanping) Cable Car → Blue Moon Valley → Return to Hotel

▷ Accommodation: Selected comfortable hotel in Lijiang

▷ Meals: Breakfast included; lunch and dinner at own expense (split-cost basis)

▷ Distance: 80 km | Drive time: 1–2 hours

After breakfast, depart for the 5A-rated Jade Dragon Snow Mountain; the drive to the scenic area takes approximately one hour. Visit Ganhaizi (Dry Sea Meadow), a high-altitude meadow, and enjoy lunch within the scenic area. Afterward, take the cable car up to Spruce Meadow (Yunshanping). Also known as the "Valley of Lovers' Suicide," locals refer to it as the "Third Kingdom" of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Situated at an altitude of approximately 3,240 meters, this vast meadow—nestled amidst a primeval spruce forest—offers one of the best vantage points for viewing Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

Afterwards, tour the Blue Moon Valley scenic area, visiting Yuye Lake, Jingtan Lake, Lanyue Lake, Tingtao Lake, and the Baishui River. The waters of Blue Moon Valley originate from the melting ancient snow and ice of the mountain glaciers; flowing down steep cliffs and gathering into mountain streams, they eventually form a crystal-clear, refreshingly pure river—known as the Baishui River—within the deep valley upstream. Return to the hotel after visiting Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

In the evening, you are free to visit the Old Town or Shuhe Ancient Town to spend your leisure time, relax, and experience the enchanting charm of Lijiang.

▷Important Note:

This itinerary includes the Spruce Meadow (Yunshanping) cable car for the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain visit (not the Glacier Park "Big Cable Car"). If you wish to upgrade to the Glacier Park "Big Cable Car," please notify customer service one week in advance.

Day 6: Lijiang → Lugu Lake Observation Deck → "Pig-trough Boat" Lake Tour → Grass Sea "Walking Marriage" Bridge → Mosuo Bonfire Party

▷ Accommodation: Selected comfortable hotel within the Lugu Lake Scenic Area

▷ Meals: Breakfast included; main meals at own expense (split-cost basis)

▷ Distance: 200 km; Drive time: 3 hours

After breakfast, we depart for the mysterious "Oriental Kingdom of Women"—Lugu Lake. En route, we enjoy the scenery of the Jinsha River Gorge and view the thirteen peaks of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain from afar. Upon arriving in Ninglang Yi Autonomous County and having lunch, we visit the Lugu Lake Observation Deck, where the breathtaking panoramic view of the lake comes into full view.

Next, we head to the pier to tour the lake in a "pig-trough boat"—a traditional dugout canoe unique to the Mosuo people. Out on the water, beneath the blue sky and white clouds, the morning sunlight shimmering on the crystal-clear lake creates a stunningly beautiful scene. From November to March, flocks of rare migratory birds soar freely against the blue sky, creating a picturesque landscape so enchanting it captures the soul.

Afterward, we visit the Grass Sea and the "Walking Marriage" Bridge before checking into our hotel or guesthouse. In the evening, we admire the magnificent sunset over Lugu Lake. Following dinner, we join the bonfire party, where we light the fire alongside Mosuo men and women dressed in their finest traditional attire. We hold hands to dance joyfully and sing the melodious, soul-stirring songs of Lugu Lake together with our charming Mosuo hosts.

Day 7: Lugu Lake Sunrise → Lovers' Beach → Lige Peninsula Viewpoint → Return to Lijiang & Tour Conclusion

▷ Accommodation: None

▷ Meals: Breakfast included; other meals on a shared-cost (AA) basis

▷ Distance: 200 km | Drive Time: 3 hours

Start the morning by witnessing the breathtaking sunrise over Lugu Lake. The interplay of the rising sun, the lake waters, and the morning mist creates a mesmerizing scene, transporting you into a dreamlike fairyland. After enjoying the sunrise, you are free to take photos by the lakeside—Lugu Lake is stunning in the morning, and you simply won't get enough of capturing its beauty. Alternatively, you can simply let go of all schedules and sleep in until you wake naturally. Afterward, we will drive a full loop around Lugu Lake, passing by Lovers' Beach and the Lige Peninsula. We will then leave the scenic area via the lakeside road, stop for lunch in Ninglang County, and return to Lijiang, concluding this delightful panoramic tour of Western Yunnan.

For those not in a rush to leave that day, we can organize a group dinner on a shared-cost basis in the evening. Since everyone will be parting ways after the trip, let’s hit the bars, drink to our hearts' content, embrace the romantic atmosphere of a Lijiang night, and revel in the moment—keeping these wonderful memories close to our hearts forever. ▷ Notes on Evening Transportation:

Due to regulations governing tourist vehicles and out of concern for passenger safety, vehicles do not operate at night except in special circumstances. Regarding the scheduled time in the Ancient Town: if you wish to stay longer than the planned duration, please arrange your own taxi back to the hotel after you finish exploring. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.

Helpful Tips:

1. If you are departing from Lijiang Railway Station, we recommend booking a high-speed or regular train scheduled for 18:00 or later on the day of departure.

2. If you are departing from Lijiang Airport, we recommend booking a flight scheduled to depart at 20:00 or later on the day of departure.

Booking Terms

1. As the initiator and operator of this tour, our company holds the right to use all photos, videos and other footage captured throughout the trip.

2. This tour includes outdoor hiking, long-distance coach rides, thrill activities and other strenuous programs. All registrants must be physically fit for travel. Visitors with hypertension, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, infectious diseases, respiratory illnesses, mental disorders, severe anemia, those recovering from major surgeries, people with limited mobility, pregnant women and other relevant groups are not allowed to participate. If you register on behalf of another person, you must fully confirm whether their physical condition meets the requirements of this itinerary.

3. In accordance with relevant provisions of the Tourism Law of the People's Republic of China, minors under the age of 18 must join the tour accompanied by their legal guardians, who shall be fully responsible for their care throughout the trip.

4. Unregistered individuals (including unregistered infants) are prohibited from joining this tour. To safeguard the health and travel experience of all participants, pets are not permitted.

5. You must submit accurate and complete personal information as required by the booking system upon registration to avoid booking mistakes that disrupt your trip. Any losses arising from inaccurate information provided by you shall be borne solely by yourself.

6. Our staff will arrange hotel rooms based on accommodation reservations; shared rooms are allocated to tour companions of the same gender by default. If you wish to share a room with family or friends, please inform our staff after registration. Solo registrants requesting a private single room shall contact staff to check availability. If a single room can be arranged, the single room supplement shall be at your own expense.

7. If you hold preferential certificates such as military ID, press card, disability certificate, senior citizen card, student ID, medical staff certificate, etc., please notify our staff and submit relevant supporting documents within one day after registration. Scenic tickets purchased by our travel agency are discounted group tickets, so all preferential refunds will be calculated based on the travel agency’s discounted rate instead of the official listed price of the scenic spot.

8. Some scenic spots require advance ticket reservations with participants’ personal information, and the ID document carried during travel must match the one used for ticket issuance. If a scenic spot cannot be visited due to objective reasons such as sold-out tickets, our company will arrange an alternative attraction, with any price difference settled via refund of excess payment or supplementary charge as applicable.

9. The actual scenery of attractions along the itinerary may differ from the pictures displayed on the activity page due to weather, seasonal changes and other factors. By completing registration, you acknowledge and accept this condition.

10. The tour guide/leader shown on the activity introduction page may not be the final staff member leading the group. Our company reserves the right to adjust tour leaders according to actual operational arrangements, which all registrants acknowledge and agree to upon booking.

11. During the actual trip, with participants’ consent, the tour leader may make reasonable adjustments to the itinerary (e.g., rearrange the visiting order of scenic spots, revise assembly time, etc.) according to weather, traffic and other practical conditions to guarantee a smooth trip.

12. If the tour is affected by force majeure events including traffic delays, strikes, adverse weather, aircraft/train malfunctions, flight cancellations or schedule changes, airport closures, scenic spot closures, or other unavoidable incidents despite reasonable precautions taken by our company and service providers, we will make every reasonable effort to assist with itinerary changes, and any price difference incurred will be settled by refunding surpluses or collecting shortfalls accordingly.

13. If the tour is cancelled before departure or the remaining journey is terminated mid-trip due to force majeure, in accordance with the Tourism Contract, tour fees will be refunded after deducting non-refundable payments already disbursed to service providers, and the remaining balance will be returned to the original payment account.

14. Participants who voluntarily leave the tour midway for personal reasons must sign a group departure agreement. All safety liabilities and expenses incurred after leaving the group shall be borne solely by the participant. Refunds will be issued for unused, refundable portions covered in the tour fee, calculated based on the travel agency’s discounted rates. Any non-refundable payments already made to service providers cannot be reimbursed.

15. Shopping venues at scenic areas, restaurants, rest stops and other locations are not arranged by our company. We remind all participants to consume rationally and retain purchase receipts. Any consumer disputes shall be resolved directly between the participant and the merchant.

16. One complimentary travel accident insurance policy is provided upon registration, which takes effect throughout the tour period. For insurance claims hotline, please refer to the insurance policy document.

Lijiang Government Service Hotline: 0888-12345