Details
Arrive in Kunming – Golden Temple – Green Lake Park
After arriving in Kunming, you’ll be greeted at the airport and transferred to your downtown hotel. After settling in, your exploration begins at the Golden Temple on Mingfeng Hill. This famous Taoist temple is crafted entirely of bronze, which shines with a golden hue in the sun. The journey continues at the serene Green Lake Park, renowned as the city’s “Jade” for its captivating scenery.
Meals: Not included
Accommodation: Cachet Boutique Kunming Artime or Green Lake Hotel
Kunming Changshui International Airport
Kunming South Railway Station
Kunming – Zhuanxin Farmers’ Market – Stone Forest – Dali
In the morning, begin your day at Kunming’s largest farmers’ market, a vibrant hub of local life. Discover an incredible variety of fresh produce, from unique wild mushrooms to colorful fruits, all shaped by Yunnan’s diverse climate and terrain. It’s a feast for the senses and a perfect glimpse into the local culture.
Then, journey next to the stunning Stone Forest, a masterpiece of karst formations. Wander through this natural labyrinth and marvel at limestone peaks that resemble everything from animals to human figures, all carved by nature’s artistry over millennia.
Later, your guide will see you off on a comfortable 2-hour high-speed train to Dali. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted and escorted to your hotel within the charming, primitive setting of the Ancient City, where your Dali adventure begins.
Meals: Breakfast: Included
Accommodation: Dali Iridescent Clouds Hotel or Dali Iridescent Clouds Hotel
Kunming Zhuanxin Farmers’ Market
Yunnan Stone Forest
Dali – Dali Ancient City – Erhai Lake – Dali
Discover the cultural heart of Dali on this full-day immersion into Bai minority traditions and breathtaking scenery. Your journey begins in the historic Dali Ancient City, where you’ll wander along cobblestone paths, admire traditional Bai houses with elegant upturned eaves, and browse the lively market street stretching from the South Gate to the North Gate.
Later, venture just outside the city to visit the iconic Three Pagodas, set against the stunning backdrop of Erhai Lake. Standing in a symmetrical formation, these 1,800-year-old pagodas have become the enduring symbol of Dali’s rich history.
The day culminates with a scenic walk along the Erhai Lake Ecological Corridor. Follow pathways that weave through wetlands and groves, with the lake’s crystal-blue waters always in view. Watch as local fishermen paddle traditional wooden boats, and white egrets sweep over the surface. If you wish, your guide can arrange a bicycle rental for you to explore further along the lakeside, pedaling through villages and fields with the Cangshan Mountains rising in the distance.
Meals: Breakfast: Included
Accommodation: Dali Iridescent Clouds Hotel or Dali Iridescent Clouds Hotel
Dali Ancient City
Erhai Lake
Dali – Xizhou Ancient Town – Old Town of Lijiang – Lijiang
Your private journey to Lijiang unfolds through the stunning Yunnan landscape. En route, we’ll stop in Xizhou where you’ll explore a traditional Bai compound adorned with intricate woodcarvings and elegant courtyards. Then, experience the magic of Bai tie-dyeing firsthand at a local workshop, creating your own patterned cloth with guidance from master artisans.
Upon arrival in Lijiang, check in to your hotel before stepping into the enchanting Old Town. Wander through cobblestone lanes lined with Naxi-style buildings, discovering lively markets and quiet lanes. As evening falls, watch the town transform under the glow of red lanterns – you’re welcome to extend your evening exploring these magical streets at your leisure.
Meals: Breakfast: Included
Accommodation: Duofu Resort or InterContinental Lijiang Ancient Town Resort
Xizhou Ancient Town
Bai Minority Tie-dyeing
Lijiang – Baisha Village – Black Dragon Pool Park – Lijiang
Begin your day in the ancient Baisha Village, the former capital of the Naxi Kingdom. Here, you‘ll step inside a local family’s home for an authentic cultural exchange—an intimate opportunity to learn about Naxi customs and daily life directly from the community.
Your exploration continues with a visit to the renowned Baisha Murals, where exquisite art blends Naxi, Han, and Tibetan traditions. Your knowledgeable guide will help uncover the stories behind these vivid historical scenes.
Later, take in the serene atmosphere of Jade Lake Village before entering the scenic Black Dragon Pool Park. Framed by classic pavilions and the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in the distance, it’s a photographer’s dream. Your cultural immersion culminates at the Dongba Culture Museum, home to ancient Naxi hieroglyphs, religious artifacts, and a rich legacy of indigenous traditions.
Meals: Breakfast: Included
Accommodation: Duofu Resort or InterContinental Lijiang Ancient Town Resort
Old Town Of Lijiang
Black Dragon Pool Park
Lijiang – First Bend of the Yangtze River – Tiger Leaping Gorge – Shangri-La
Today begins with a scenic drive to the legendary Shangri-La. Your journey includes a stop at the “First Bend of the Yangtze River” near Stone Drum Town, where you can witness the dramatic turn of this mighty river. Afterwards, prepare for the breathtaking vistas of Tiger Leaping Gorge. Upon arrival at the gorge, you will be greeted by your new guide from Shangri-La, who will then escort you to your hotel for check-in.
Meals: Breakfast: Included
Accommodation: Hilton Garden Inn Shangri-La or Hotel Indigo Diqing Moonlight City
First Bend of the Yangtze River
Tiger Leaping Gorge
Shangri-La – Songzanlin Temple – Potatso National Park – Shangri-La
Begin your day in the serene morning air with a visit to the magnificent Songzanlin Monastery, Yunnan’s largest Tibetan Buddhist temple. Often called the ‘Little Potala Palace,’ its golden roofs and grand architecture offer a profound glimpse into Tibetan spirituality.
Next, step into a natural paradise at Potatso National Park. Stroll along peaceful trails surrounded by ancient forests, emerald meadows, and the stunning Shudu Lake—a glittering jewel set high at 3,700 meters. This is the pristine landscape of your Shangri-La dreams.
Your cultural immersion concludes with a warm invitation into a local Tibetan home. Share stories with your hosts over a cup of authentic butter tea, gaining a personal insight into a rich and enduring way of life.
Meals: Breakfast: Included
Accommodation: Hilton Garden Inn Shangri-La or Hotel Indigo Diqing Moonlight City
Songzanlin Temple
Potatso National Park
Depart from Shangri-La
As your tour concludes, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight home. We extend our heartfelt thanks for traveling with us and wish you safe and pleasant journeys ahead.
Meals: Breakfast: Included
Dates & Prices
| Month | Date | Price | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 2026-01 | $ 1059 | Book now |
| Feb | 2026-02 | $ 1059 | Book now |
| Mar | 2026-03 | $ 1059 | Book now |
| Apr | 2026-04 | $ 1059 | Book now |
| May | 2026-05 | $ 1059 | Book now |
| Jun | 2026-06 | $ 1059 | Book now |
| Jul | 2026-07 | $ 1059 | Book now |
| Aug | 2026-08 | $ 1059 | Book now |
| Sep | 2026-09 | $ 1059 | Book now |
| Oct | 2026-10 | $ 1059 | Book now |
| Nov | 2026-11 | $ 1059 | Book now |
| Dec | 2026-12 | $ 1059 | Book now |
You are consulting 2025-04-12 8 Days in Mysterious Yunnan: An Escorted Group Tour to Dali, Lijiang & Shangri-La
Fee Description
Services Included:
Domestic flights and high-speed train fares.
Hand-selected hotels with daily breakfast included.
An expert English-speaking guide and a private vehicle at your disposal.
Pre-paid access to all scheduled tourist sites.
Customize Accommodation: Comfort Hotels or Luxury Hotels. (Note that the hotel cannot be specified. If the hotel resources are tight during the peak season, our agency has the right to adjust the hotel and arrange it according to the same level standard)
Services Excluded:
International airfare to and from China
Chinese entry visa fees
Personal gratuities for your guide and driver
Personal expenditures
Peak season surcharges (Hotel room rates will get increased in summer vacation of Jul and Aug. There will be extra charge incurred for traveling during this period.)
Hotel Information:
Cachet Boutique Kunming Artime
Dali Iridescent Clouds Hotel
Lijiang Duofu Resort
Hilton Garden Inn Shangri-La
