11 Days Yunnan and Chongqing Tour with Natural Marvels

Day-by-day Itinerary

1. Day 1: Kuming Arrival

   Welcome to Kunming! Our driver will pick you up at the airport arrival hall and escort you to the hotel in a comfortable private car.

   For the rest time, you can explore Yunnan Nationalities Museum (recommended visiting time: 2 hours) on your own. It is a window to glimpse Yunnan’s vibrant diverse ethnic cultures. Appreciate distinctive ethnic costumes, interesting handicrafts, and daily life exhibits. Interactive displays and live demonstrations bring the rich heritage to life.

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   4-Star Hotel in Kunming
2. Day 2: Kunming's Essence
   Discover Karst Wonders, Ancient Temples, Lakeside Life in Kunming

   Our morning guided tour begins after meeting your tour guide at the hotel lobby. Get in a comfortable vehicle for the Shilin Stone Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in Shilin County, this karst wonderland features towering rock formations shaped like swords, towers, and mushrooms. We first explore the Lesser Stone Forest, home to the iconic Ashima Stone resembling an Yi ethnic girl. Then, stroll through the Greater one, where you can see stones looking like lotus, rhinocero, birds...

   

   Next, transfer to visit Yuantong Temple, situated on Yuantong Street, a renowned Buddhist site with a 1200-year history. This unique temple, unlike others built on hillsides, slopes inward, creating a rare garden-like setting with lush greenery and elegant architecture. It harmoniously blends Han, Tibetan, and Southeast Asian Buddhist styles, reflected in its diverse architecture. Visiting during the first or fifteenth lunar month, you can experience grand Buddhist celebrations.

   After that, your guide will take you to Cuihu Park in the northern part of Kunming, which is across from Yunnan University. The park is famous for its green lakes and lotus pools, while winter attracts thousands of red-billed gulls making the park a perfect place for their feeding and photographing. The lake is divided into five scenic areas by the dykes, one of which contains Qing-era buildings like the Lake Heart Pavilion. After exploring, you can walk around the streets that are surrounding the park which are filled with nice shops, cafes, and bars. After all sightseeing, you will be driven back to your hotel.

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   4-Star Hotel in Kunming
3. Day 3: Kunming to Dali by High-speed Train
   Experience Bai Culture, Tie-dye Art, Cycling by Erhai Lake

   After breakfast, you will take a high-speed train to Dali for 2.5 hours. Upon arrival, the guide in Dali will pick you and take you to Zhoucheng Village. This ancient ethnic village exudes rich culture and you can see traditional Bai-style architecture and local women in unique attire. Zhoucheng is renowned for its tie-dye art, where long strips of colorful fabric flutter in classic courtyards. Walk through the village and be guided to visit several local homes. Smaller pieces make affordable souvenirs (optional), while larger ones cost more.

   

   Then enjoy a leisurely bike ride along Erhai's west shore, where gentle breezes and flowers accompany you. Admire the panoramic view of Cangshan Mountain at distance, its peaks framed by blue skies.

   After that, your guide leads you through Dali Ancient Town, nestled at the foot of Cangshan Mountain, once the capital of Nanzhao and Dali kingdoms. A romantic and leisure place to live, locals enjoy slow-paced life amidst mild weather. During the day, stroll along Fuxing Road, lined with shops selling ethnic attire and local snacks. As the night falls, immerse yourself in busy nightlife, where lively bars and cafes offer live music and spontaneous performances. Last, we check in at the hotel in the old town.

   Free Time Activity:

   You will be suggested during the free time to visit the Three Pagodas Park, located 1km south of the Chongsheng Temple site. This park has a pond where you can capture the amazing reflection of the Three Pagodas (the landmark of Dali city).

   

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   4-Star Hotel in Dali
4. Day 4: Dali to Lijiang
   Wander Lijiang Old Town, Admire Naxi Architecture, Photograph Black Dragon Pool

   Today we will drive for 2.5 hours to another beautiful ancient town of Lijiang. Lijiang is a must see tourist destination in Yunnan, with three world heritage sites and a variety of ethnic cultures and folk activities.

   Upon arrival, your guide leads you through Lijiang Ancient Town, a historic tea trade hub immortalized in films like "One Meter Sunshine." Nestled at the foot of Yulong Snow Mountain, the town is filled with Naxi wooden houses, stone alleys, and tranquil waterways. At the heart lies Sifang Street, a bustling square lined with shops, eateries, and bars. Diverse stores offer ethnic crafts, tea, and silverware. Bring several ones home as souvenirs. Do you want to have a panoramic view of the ancient city? You can climb up the Wangu Tower, located on the top of Lion Mountain on the west side of the town.

   

   After that, go visit Black Dragon Pool Park, nestled at the foot of Elephant Mountain. This spot features a clear spring reflecting Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, and this is a great photo opportunity with ancient buildings like the Five-Arch Bridge and Deyue Pavilion. Especially at sunset, the whole picture is extremely beautiful!

   Note: Sunset time from June to August in summer: 7:30 p.m.; from December to February in winter: 6:30 p.m.

   Stay overnight in Lijiang Old Town.

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   4-Star Hotel in Lijiang
5. Day 5: Chuxiong to Dali
   In-depth Into Yi Culture and One of 13 Famous Taoist Mountains

   Your tour guide will arrive at your hotel for a long and exciting trip to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, which is a holy peak for the Naxi tribe. The mountain with its 13 peaks rising high forms a figure of a silver dragon sprawling in the sky and thus received this beautiful name. After you come to the attraction, the first thing you will do is to explore Ganzhaizi, the huge mountain pasture where you can catch a full view of the snow-covered mountains.

   

   Next, go by a scenic shuttle to the cable car station for a ride to the top of Yunshanping. This plateau, which is 3205 meters above sea level, is surrounded by thick fir trees and has a very beautiful landscape, which is characterized by seasonal changes. There is a myth stating that it is a sacred place where Naxi lovers give up their lives for love.

   Subsequent to the ride down, you will have the opportunity to visit Blue Moon Valley, where a series of turquoise pools, which are supplied by glacial melt water, are located and which are framed by the snow peaks. The fairy-tale landscape is made up of the valley's transparent waters and its constantly transforming colors.

   If it happens that the outdoor spectacle "Impression Lijiang" performance is available on the day of your visit, then definitely do not miss it, as it will give you the chance to see the region's rich cultural and historical inheritance through the theatrical performance of the Naxi music and dance.

   Important Notes:

   1. For those keen on visiting the highest point, Glacier Park, please inform your travel advisor in advance.
   2. Due to the high altitude, altitude sickness is a possibility. Prepare accordingly by bringing anti-altitude sickness medication.
   3. Dress warmly, as temperatures can drop significantly, and wear comfortable shoes for walking.

   After the adventure, you will be transferred to Yuhu Village, named after the man-made "Jade Lake" built by the Mu family before the Ming Dynasty. The lake's clear snow water reflects the towering Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. A unique "Dragon Maiden Tree" stands by the lake, bearing sweet oranges, believed to be transformed from a dragon girl. Explore this quiet village at your own pace. After that, escort you back to the hotel.

   

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   4-Star Hotel in Lijiang
6. Day 6: Lijiang to Shangri-La
   Witness the Yangtze’s First Bend and Hike the Dramatic Tiger Leaping Gorge

   Originating from the "Roof of the World" - the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau, the Yangtze River flows with great force, then takes a sudden sharp turn of more than 100 degrees between Shigou Town and Shasongbi Village, thereby creating a "V" shape. This natural phenomenon has earned the name "The First Bend of Yangtze River" among people. After this, proceed to drive 50 kilometers, close to one hour, to get to the Tiger Leaping Gorge - one of the deepest canyons in the world.

   This entire canyon is 23 kilometers long and the descent is 213 meters. The canyon is separated into three parts. Today we will be trekking in the easiest and smallest part, the Upper Tiger Leaping Gorge. At this point, the river is merely around 20 meters wide. In the midst of the river, there stands a gigantic rock which is around 13 meters tall. It is believed that a tiger once leapt over to the other side by way of this rock and thus it was named Tiger Leap Rock. Eventually, the canyon was named after this. Our visit will last for 2 hours.

   After the visit, we head for our next destination - Shangri-La, which is a two-hour drive from Tiger Leaping Gorge. After arriving, check in at the hotel. Later, you can explore the county town on your own. There are some great coffee shops here.

   

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   4-Star Hotel in Shangri-La
7. Day 7: Shangri-La to Chongqing by Flight
   Visit Tibetan Monasteries and Ancient Towns

   Your visit to Shangri-La will be led by your expert guide who will take you first to the Songzanlin Monastery, which is the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan and also referred to as the Little Potala Palace. The 17th-century built temple is like a castle on a hill. You will walk with your guide through the hall where major Gelugpa center and unique Tibetan and Han architectural style co-exist. You will see and appreciate gold statues, old palm-leaf scriptures, fine thangkas, and ritual objects.

   Then, make your way to Dukezong Ancient Town, a Tibetan settlement that has been nicely preserved and was once a main stopping point on the Tea Horse Road. Its Moonlight City nickname is due to its meaning in Tibetan. The stone lanes and civil houses have been a witness to several centuries of highland life. Guishan Park visit, which was built on the hillside during the Qing Dynasty, will allow you to take a panorama of the ancient city. The world's largest gilded prayer wheel, carved with Buddhist symbols, is also found here. You could also join other people in turning this giant wheel.

   

   After the exploration, you will be transferred to the airport for a flight to Chongqing. In 1 hour and 40 minutes, the Chongqing local driver will pick you up and send you to the hotel for check-in.

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   4-Star Hotel in Chongqing
8. Day 8: Chongqing City Exploration
   Explore Chongqing’s Historic Streets, Light Rail Marvels, Night Scenery

   Led by your local guide, this full-day Chongqing city tour blends history, scenery, and modern innovation. Begin at Ciqikou Ancient Town, a time-honored place with traditional Minjiang-style houses, stone-paved alleys, and historic temples. Stroll through its compact streets, lined with Ming and Qing-era architecture, to experience the essence of "old Chongqing" amidst vibrant local life.

   Next, visit Eling Park, perched on a narrow hill resembling a goose's neck. You can have breathtaking views of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers from its nine-story Kansheng Pavilion. Continue to Liziba Light Rail Station, one of Chongqing’s most iconic sights. Here trains hurtle through residential buildings, showcasing innovative urban design. Capture this unique scene from the observation platform.

   

   At the People's Liberation Monument, learn about Chongqing's history as a symbol of victory and liberation. This bustling square is the heart of the city's commercial district.

   Finally, explore Hongya Cave Folk Customs Area, a must-see for its amazing night views. This 11-leveled district features traditional Diaojiaolou (stilted houses) along the riverside, housing diverse attractions: from food streets and specialty shops to bars and cafes. Ascend to the top for a panoramic view of the two rivers' confluence. Don’t miss the night view from Qiansimen Bridge.

   

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   4-Star Hotel in Chongqing
9. Day 9: Chongqing to Wulong
   Discover Natural Stone Bridges and Alpine Meadows at Fairy Mountain

   After breakfast, we'll drive about 3 hours to Wulong Karst National Geological Park. The most fascinating aspect here is the karst landform. When we arrive, a shuttle bus takes you to the first highlight today: Three Natural Bridges. The area is famous for the largest group of natural bridges in Asia created by nature - three stone arch bridges - Tianlong Bridge, Qinglong Bridge, and Heilong Bridge. The well-known Transformers 4 was filmed here.

   

   Our next stop is Fairy Mountain. This place boasts rare alpine grasslands in southern China. The forest, unique peaks, grasslands and snowfields are called the "Four Wonders" of Fairy Mountain by tourists. Within this scenic area, there are cattle, sheep and horses freely grazing. The scenery is beautiful and it is known as "Little Switzerland". Besides the scenery, you can also enjoy more than 20 recreational activities (optional) such as horseback riding, grass skiing, shooting, paragliding and barbecue. There are some European-style triangular wooden houses scattered around, which are excellent places for relaxation and summer vacation.

   After the tour, stay overnight in Wulong County.

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   3-Star Hotel in Wulong
10. Day 10: Wulong to Chongqing
    Explore Furong Cave’s Spectacular Stalactites

    After breakfast, your guide will take you to explore Furong Cave, a corresponding Natural Heritage site with the Furong River. A physical limestone cave represents Nature's creativity through showing close to all the existing stalactites, which are illuminated in rich colors under the fantastic lighting conditions. Your guide will take you step by step through the spacious chambers and will introduce you to by whom, with what and how the famous formations such as Golden Hall, Jade Pillars and Thousand-Year Kiss have been made. The cave is 2 kilometers long and visit small groups are to guard the delicate environment, with lighting activated section by section.

    

    By the time the visit is over, you will still be able to delight in the beautiful Furong River, which is located right next to the cave entrance. You will have a chance to take a relaxing cruise on the river, but you will have to pay extra for that. Then, you will be driven back to Chongqing where you will spend the night.

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    4-Star Hotel in Chongqing
11. Day 11: Chongqing Departure

    After breakfast, you have some free time to explore more about Chongqing. At the agreed time, your private driver will pick you up at your hotel lobby and send you to the airport for your departure. This is the end of the 11-day Yunnan and Chongqing tour. Hope you guys had a nice time with China Xian Tour. See you next time on your China trip! Safe travels.

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